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5 Repair Window Projects For Any Budget
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 of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you as you work.

A quick fix for a broken window is to apply a plastic covering over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from getting into the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive, but it can also allow drafts and other elements into the house. Whether the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are the result of stress, like an abrupt change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to use clear tape to cover it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

window repairs are the most common type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window look like it has never had a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best 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 instances, a single layer of caulking is enough 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 new caulking.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. These are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.


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

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections then, 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 that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

For a less expensive alternative you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being attached to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows are not as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to seek assistance. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be done in the majority of 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 does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the parting strip that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are.

It is crucial to examine the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're not the same it's difficult to insert the new one in its slot and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well for any damage or rot. It's recommended to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.

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