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When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to apply a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects from entering your home.

Cracked glass

Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing, but it can also let drafts and other elements into the house. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning effectively.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is becoming bigger or is deep, it is advised to consult with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become 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 because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually expand into full-blown break.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get an expert to assist you with the repairs immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, a single layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and take off any existing caulking.

It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with 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-paned windows it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are known in the UK) separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.

First, clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the present one.

Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time for some help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged website sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing the tabs in their correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. You should repair any visible damage as soon 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 are able to finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.