When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing glass windows. The first step is to put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

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

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, like a baseball or soccer or a stress like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier will determine the cause of a crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

An impact crack is the most common type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're looking to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair timber windows cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather 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 any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it may be time to consider a window repair project. In excess moisture, it creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out a professional to assist to fix the problem immediately. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural and mold damage So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases, a simple caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, however, and then remove any old caulking before applying the new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

If windows have double glaze repair panes You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water enter the home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening 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. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. 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 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 stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more severe, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows come with a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. You can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to seek help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be done in all double glazing repair-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or rot. It's a good idea to check it regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements, too.