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Repair Window 101: A Complete Guide For Beginners
When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. The first step is to wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.

A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing but also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your cracked window if it's not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. double glazing repairs Cambridge can identify the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. It is typically a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be a result of low or high air pressure that can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear like it never had any cracks at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window, or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the home.

It's best to call an expert if water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage and should not be left untreated.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

If windows have double panes, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.

The water stains on the ceiling and walls are another sign of the presence of a leak. These occur when wall is soaked with 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 from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

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

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close focus on the areas that were lightly coated in the first go. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches the style and size of the present one.

To save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.


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

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll need to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed your sash, you must be sure to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they're 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 correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well for any damage or decay. It's a good idea do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should fix any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.

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