When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. First, you should wear a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will keep snow, rain and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt temperature change or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are working correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the elements.

If the crack is getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to speak with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks start around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or the wood surrounding it is weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to assist repair the issue right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop the leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll have to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

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

If windows have double glazing repairs Oldham panes it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling 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. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Most of the time it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new 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 these situations it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the current one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with muntins that are attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly installed the sash cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To reach the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It's important that you examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.