5 Repair Window Lessons From The Professionals

When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will keep snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Glass that has cracked
Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive but also allow drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball, or stress, like the sudden temperature drop, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the elements.
If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A professional glazier can determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
A crack caused by an impact is the most frequent type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into complete breaks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be repaired. This is most often an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
If you're looking to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route 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 cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your house.
If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In window repairs of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater but can become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows have double panes You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and allow water to get into the home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.
Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a 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 you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying another coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in middle of the window it's likely to be 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 the design and size.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. 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, however.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, you should consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious sign that it's time for assistance. If not taken care of, 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 possible to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made 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 in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.
Once you've removed the sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against the ones on the new sash. If they're different it's difficult to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. Luckily, this is easily rectified by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame, too, 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. If you spot any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames have begun to deteriorate they can be treated using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements too.