Why Repair Window Is Your Next Big Obsession?

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. First, put on a pair safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from slicing you while you work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a damaged window. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Cracked glass can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, repairer it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.

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

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. A professional glazier can identify the cause of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most popular 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 broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, which develops gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and can progress to complete breaks.

A more serious, but possible crack is the pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of low or high air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're willing to go further than tape and nail polish, there are a few 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 do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair 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 around it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen symptoms of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, though, and take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.

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

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the metal frame. This will ensure a barrier between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down with time and let water leak into the house.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of the presence of a leak. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture, which weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. Peeling paint is another sign of water altering 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 were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas with a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you're dealing with a more severe problem such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the existing window in both style and size.

For a less expensive alternative 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, however.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to get assistance. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window repair is properly sealed and working.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side in order to remove it. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one in its slot and impact how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in their correct places on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window frame for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you spot any visible damage it should be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.

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