Notes

7 Secrets About Window Repairs That Nobody Will Tell You
Window Repairs You Shouldn't Ignore

If your window won't open and close smoothly it could be a sign of a failing seal. The expansion and contraction caused by heat over time can destroy seals between double panes which can lead to dirt, moisture and energy loss.

Wood rot can also be found in window frames and sills. The early repair using epoxy wood filler can prevent costly repairs later on.

Chips and cracks

A cracked window can be risky. It exposes the window to further breakage and moisture which could cause a problem with mold. Repair any chips or cracks as soon you can to keep your windows in good shape and your family secure.

Pebbles, rock chips as well as Dolichovespula Maculata seeds can break your windows. (No, that is not a plant. It's actually an insect.) Cracks that are caused by these can be fixed.


This repair method is suitable for single-pane household glass and double-pane windows with cracks in just one pane of glass. It isn't suitable for windshields that require a special tool to inject resin into the crack and create an air space between the glass layers.

Clean the area in which the crack is to be repaired using glass cleaner. Then you can use a pin or thumbtack to remove any glass shards that have fallen in the crack. You can also use rubbing alcohol or acetone to clean the surface and ensure that the repair material adheres properly.

Some methods claim that a fixed crack is nearly invisible. While this is true for some types of repairs however, it's not a practical target for all, especially for small cracks in the glass. Repairing these cracks will help prevent them from becoming larger problems, and they may even stop them from spreading.

If you're looking for a perfectly invisible crack, search for a repair kit that uses super glue that is clear to repair the damage. This kind of super glue will not expand when it dries and will not exacerbate the crack. Be sure to carefully read the instructions for your product prior to making the decision.

If you want to try a temporary solution, you can try covering the chip or crack with clear nail polish. This can act as a sealer, and slow the process of repairing the crack. It's important to keep the polish a bit away from the crack edges to avoid damaging the integrity.

Sashes that Don't Move

Some old windows are difficult for you to open due to swelling wood or rotted wood, or because the cords or balance systems that are able to move up and down may be broken. But often the problem is something simpler, such as dirt or other debris that has gummed up the mechanisms. It might just need to be cleaned or lubricated.

The first step is to remove the sash. This can be done using the help of a putty knife, and a bit of perseverance. Begin by scoring the paint between the jamb and sash stop and then carefully pull them apart. Be careful not to break the sash stop or jamb, and put the pieces aside to keep them safe.

After removing the sash, you will have access to the pocket piece and front window stops. double glazed window repairs can be removed using a utility knife, and when they are removed in place, you will be able to lower the top sash all way to the sill. The bottom sash isn't as challenging as the top to move, but getting it all the way down may be a challenge as well. After you've lowered the sash down to the lowest point you can use a flathead screwdriver to reset and lock the balance shoe (the small box that is located at the bottom of your window) so that it can support the weight of the sash.

If the sash isn't staying in place, you might need to replace the balance system or sash. It's generally easier than you think to replace the balance system or sash, because replacement parts are readily available from a variety of vendors and are inexpensive. Once you've replaced the balance system or sash you can move the sash to test it to see whether it's working properly.

Another issue that can cause windows to be difficult to open is that the sash tilt pin has been removed or is damaged in the course of cleaning. If you're adept, you can repair this yourself. But it is best to perform this on older windows that are safe to take apart. If you're not handy you should engage a professional with expertise with the type of window you have.

Caps for drip Caps

If you're experiencing dampness around your window, it might be the right time to invest in new drip caps. The L-shaped flashing is put on top of the window after installation, but before siding. It helps direct water away from your frame. This quick project can help to prevent damage from moisture and also save you money on maintenance costs.

The addition of an end dam to your window cap flashing may also prevent water infiltration towards the ends of the trim. Use a pair tin snips and create the small "flap". This fold will prevent rain from rolling off the edges of the flashing, and then down into the wood framing.

MS Windows and Doors also offers drip caps that have been made with an end dam. These drip caps are available in a variety of colors and can be added to your order when you order your window.

Install the head flashing under the sheathing which is above the drip cap. This is the same flashing you'll find under the J channel on the exterior trim. It's a good idea avoid tape covering all the length of the head flashing and only cover the corners.

The head flashing is slit on each corner at a 45-degree angle to create the appearance of a small flap. It is then folded and tacked again to the sheathing. This creates a small gap for water that may get through the WRB into the sheathing of the house above the window.

Once you've secured the drip cap to the sheathing, you can apply caulk along the top edge of the cap. This will stop moisture from getting into the wood of the window sill, the housewrap and siding above the window. Be aware that moisture can cause structural issues and wood rot, therefore it is recommended to keep moisture from entering your home.

Sash Weights

The weights that are placed on windows (also called sashweights or sashlines) help to balance the sashes and prevent them from moving when they are opened. The weights themselves may require replacement, or they could simply be tangled, and need to be untangled. Counter balances might also need to be replaced.

The first thing Pam does is look at the exterior of the window to make sure there isn't a lot of visible damage or rot that has to be addressed before she begins the work. If there is, she'll need to do the repairs before trying to restore the windows.

She begins by removing the parting stops and interior sash stop on both sides of the window. To accomplish this, you'll be required to mark the paint line with a utility knife on both sides of the interior sash stops and then pull it away with the help of a wooden tool. Pam says this is important since if you try to pound the stops away using a mallet could break or split them. She suggests using a small woodworking tool with a narrow blade.

After removing the stops, she can then remove the sashes. She will remove the bottom sash first, and then the top. Pam is able to lubricate the sash cords so that they can move easily. She then pulls the cord to locate the hooks made of metal that are connected to each sash. They're usually worn out and need to be replaced. She then takes an old sashweight out of its pocket, and screws in a new one.

She evaluates the weights by weighing the sash using a scale to see how much it weighs. Then, she replaces the weight with a new one that matches the weight of the sash. Repeat the process for the second sash to ensure it is properly balanced. Once the sashes are back in place and she's used a level to check that they're level. She also lubricates the cords in order to make them slide more easily, and tightens the counterbalance hooks.

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