Notes

10 Repair Window Tricks Experts Recommend
When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work with care. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

An easy fix for a broken window is to put a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Broken windows not only make your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature drop, but it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.

However, if the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A skilled glazier can identify the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.


Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.

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

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks 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 project. The excess moisture can create an ideal environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first, however, and then remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to get into the home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and removing it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Often it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting components.

Clean repair my windows and doors affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're dealing with an even more serious issue such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows have a full pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. 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've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and is possible in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to take the time to examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're different it can be difficult to place the new one in its place and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window from the elements.

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