Notes

What Experts In The Field Would Like You To Be Able To
When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will prevent snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the house. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are the 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 possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it is not broken. This is a quick, low-cost solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the weather.

If the crack is severe or is getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common kind of window break, typically resulting from a hard object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks usually display an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

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

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or decaying, it might be time for a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best to contact a professional to help you to fix the problem right away. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. here. 'll need to carefully clean the area, however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

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

If windows have double panes You'll also have to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These are caused when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes 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 (or glazing bars, as they are called in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're mostly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a thick layer of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split look. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same function as an authentic mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a signal that you must seek help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to pull it out. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to insert the new one into its slot and could affect the way it functions. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct positions on the new window.


You'll need to check your window frame, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and wears down over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.

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