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5 Repair Window Lessons Learned From Professionals
When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

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

Glass that has cracked

Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature or a sudden temperature change, it's crucial to get them fixed as soon as you can to avoid further damage and keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to use clear tape to cover it. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from dust, water bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

A crack caused by an impact is the most popular type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.


Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be fixed. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or that the wood around it appears soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the home.

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

In window repair , a simple layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If you have double-paned windows it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal will wear out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

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

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave any residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have a more severe problem such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in center of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows consist of a glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. visit this website link can find a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time for some help. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is properly sealed and functioning.

The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, make sure you examine its metal tabs against the tabs on the new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to put the new one in its place and affect how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.

You'll need to check your window frame as well for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly 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 with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can then re-finish your frames using a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.

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