When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. First, put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

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

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home appear less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous when they break loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

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

If you're willing to go a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are a few alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and replacement can even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are among the main causes of mold and structural damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris over time.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water leak into the house.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated by water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in center of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided look. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functions as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. If not taken care of, 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 immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually 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 take off the tabs of metal that secure the sash. Then, push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, take the time to examine its metal tabs against those of the new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiled the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.