When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when repairing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or baseball or stress, such as a sudden temperature change, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually display a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double glazing repairs-pane windows and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be repaired. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, repairs lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not blocked with 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 window and the frame made of metal. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and let water enter the home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses tempered glass were available. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying elements.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended 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.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows consist of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed cords for sash. It's simple to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one in its place and affect how the sash operates. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down over time. You should fix any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, too.