When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the home. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature 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 working correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. The crack could affect the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is 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 tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair double glazing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window sash repairs appear like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows door repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture and can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you Repair window the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small group, leaving an opening in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows consist of a glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to contact a professional. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung cords for sash. It's simple to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to remove it. It is important to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.

After 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 will be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper places on the new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created using half mineral spirits and half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then re-finish your frames using high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, as well.