When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into the home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural damage and mold, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

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

Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it 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. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

Often, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the current one.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double glazed window repairs-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. It is important to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to make sure you examine its metal tabs against the tabs on the new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to put the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in the correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or decay. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.