When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the house. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to break it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it has never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

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

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If windows are double glazing repairs-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal may wear out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

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

First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue like cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for sash less than $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Luckily, replacing them is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. It is important to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.

After you've removed the sash, make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be difficult to place the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.