10 Unexpected Repair Window Tips

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, you must work with care. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

An easy solution to a damaged window is to put an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow and insects out of your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, such as an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating properly.

If your window is cracked but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

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

If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair project. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get an expert to assist you to fix the problem immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also 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 could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water leak into the house.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another indicator 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), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the window replacement near me that is in place in terms of style and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a full glass pane, with a set of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, consider installing an additional 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're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

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

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double glazing-hung window models. To begin, you'll need dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to pull it out. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check the frame of your window for problems or decay. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a bigger issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.