When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer or a stress like a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or has become extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are several other products that can be used to repair 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 durability for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the house.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

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

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

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling 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 the classic multi-pane windows. Since bigger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window replacement near me. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle elements.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the existing one.

To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a glass pane that has a series of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to 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 window doctor sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you need to seek help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double glazing-hung window models. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to pull it out. To access the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

Once you've removed the sash, you must make sure you look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage it should be repaired 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 using half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements too.