When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. First, you should put on a pair safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Cracked glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp 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 can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows, fitters this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and window replacement tape, there are several 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'd prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of problems for your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

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

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all you need to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

If you have double glazing-paned windows You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle components.

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

If you have an even more serious issue, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both style and size.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. 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 purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at many home centers for less than $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to call for help. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be done in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. Push up on the side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, repair my windows and Doors it will be difficult to insert the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. 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.