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 shards.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to get in. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating properly.

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

If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best upvc repair method.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but still doable crack is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any caulking that is in place.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes, the seal can wear out and allow water into your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or double glazing repair glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes.

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both the design and size.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being attached to the surface, giving them a divided look. They are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency 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're much easier to install than a replacement window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in the majority of double glazing repair-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to remove it. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed the sash, be sure to compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any problems 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 are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling 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 protect your window from the elements, too.