When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A more serious but feasible crack is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

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

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair project. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or leaking from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

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

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double glazed window repairs-paned it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're used only as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Then, take off any loose or rotting 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 can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip-cap will prevent water from leaking into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.

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

You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too to look for any signs of damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.