When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy solution 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 keep out the weather.

If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. A skilled glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double glazed window repairs-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious, but doable crack is a pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window look 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 soft or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and Repair Windows other debris as time passes.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water into your home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects 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 known in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic 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 element in some older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you're experiencing a more severe problem like a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows consist of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for repair windows an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in most double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper place and could impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well to look for any signs of damage or rot. It's recommended to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

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