When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. First, you should put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure your windows are operating effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not broken. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have an arc 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, which can affect 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 start around the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be repaired. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Leaking windows are among the main causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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 known in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Most of the time just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it is essential to locate a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass, with the muntins being glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from leaking around the window repairs frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to those of your new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash into its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and Repairs gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements as well.