When It's Time to Repair Windows

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

A quick fix for a broken window is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will stop insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or stress, such as the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out an expert. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

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

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY option, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you repair the issue right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any existing caulking.

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

If you have double glazing repairs-paned windows You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away with time and allow water to leak into the house.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign 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 the larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even 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 the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and double will provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a signal that you need to call for help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in most double glazing near me-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove 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 and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords are located.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to compare its metal tabs to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and double boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.