Notes

5 Repair Window Lessons From The Pros
When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when repairing your windows. The first step is to put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will keep snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.

Glass that has cracked

Glass that is cracked not only make your home less attractive but let drafts and other elements into the home. Whether the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows operating correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple fix is to use clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters and keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that could be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but possible crack is the pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are Sale double glazing repairs that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it never had 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 the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or comes from the outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.

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

If you have double-paned windows, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down with time and let water get into the home.

Another sign of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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 called in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in a few older homes.

Sometimes just a small or a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying elements.


First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, 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 you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more serious like an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functionality as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, you must take the time to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on the new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their proper positions on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. You should fix any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, too.

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