When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

A quick fix for a broken window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements to enter the house. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and repair Windows broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indication 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 called in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.

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

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is 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, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed cords for sash. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your emergency window repair from the elements.