When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, you must be careful when working. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
Placing window repairs over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will keep snow, rain and insects out of your home.
Glass that has cracked
Broken windows not only make your home less attractive but also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, like soccer or baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working correctly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.
If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to consult with a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks typically have a starburst of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Another kind of crack is a stress crack, which can develop gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window, and eventually grow into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more serious crack however it can be repaired. It's usually a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure that can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to consider a window repair. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can even increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to contact a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of mold and structural damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is enough to stop the leaks. It is important to clean the area, however, and then remove any old caulking before applying new caulking.
You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. Over time, the seal can get worn out and let water into your home.
Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. These are caused when the drywall is saturated by moisture, which weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, 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 panes of glass in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.
Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.
Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in middle of the window then it's probably 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.
To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, however.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you should contact a professional. A sash that is broken not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are located.
It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different it's difficult to put the new one in its place and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, this issue can be rectified by placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.
You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and break down over time. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.