5 Repair Window Lessons From Professionals

When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shards.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only makes your home less attractive however, it could also let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact, like soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them repaired as soon as possible to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not damaged. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas between the panes of the double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, that develops slowly as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and can progress to full-blown cracks.
A more serious but still feasible crack is a pressure crack. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It could be the result of low or high air pressure, which could cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or comes from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying the new layer.
Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
If windows have double panes it is also necessary to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep a gas barrier between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.
Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indicator of the presence of a leak. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.
First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife trim the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the existing window in both the design and size.
If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows consist of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window 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 seek assistance. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it can be difficult to insert the new sash into its correct slot and could affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also need to check your window frame for any damage or decay. window repair 's a good idea to do regularly, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a bigger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window from the elements.