When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to enter. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but doable crack is the pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to door repair (adaptable-horse-Fc5rjb.mystrikingly.com) cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be the time to fix your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions which can cause various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all you need to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If you have double glazing repairs-paned windows, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain the gas from escaping between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of leaks. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting 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 referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying special focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and door repair size.

Installing grid windows is a less expensive option. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface creating a divided look. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you must contact a professional. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

Often, the problem is caused by worn out or improperly installed sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or decay. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you find any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.