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When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. First, put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less attractive and allow drafts to get in. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it's important to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are operating effectively.

If your window repair is damaged but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from water, dust, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.

However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be 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 method.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can 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 stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you with the repairs right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

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

If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to inspect 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 may wear out and allow water to enter your home.

Water stains on walls and ceiling are another indication of leaks. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage a single support or a small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins attached to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They're much easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If it's not checked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash from the other so you can access the area where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed the sash, it's important to be sure to compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they are different it may be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll 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. If you find any visible damage it should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements as well.