When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are operating properly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or has become extensive, it is best to speak with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.

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 enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of low or double high air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will offer a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Leaking windows are one of the main causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area first, though, and remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to enter the home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to fully dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the 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 grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double glazed window repairs near me-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords reside.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to check regularly, since wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.