When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window repairs cracks. They usually occur when a hard object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be risky if they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and repairmywindowsanddoors reduce its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can progress to complete breaks.

A more serious but doable crack is the pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, repairmywindowsanddoors which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist with the repairs immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned window and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem like a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches the style and size of the present one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you should seek help. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your local window repair from the elements.