When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy fix for a cracked window. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball or stress, such as a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

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

A more serious, but possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of low or high air pressure, Double glazing repairs which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather make it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater but can become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.

Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of leaks. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. There may also be peeling paint as 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 referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.

Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window repairs muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. 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, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you should seek help. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double glazing repairs (additional resources)-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to examine its metal tabs against the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any problems or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down over time. You should fix any visible damage as soon as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.