When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

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

Glass that has cracked

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

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be fixed. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window repair and could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than tape and nail polish, there are alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the house.

It is best to call an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of mold and structural damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it 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 traditional multi-pane windows. Since the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that secure the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed the sash, be sure to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one in its slot and could affect the way it operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you spot any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.