What Repair Window Is Your Next Big Obsession

When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
A quick solution to a damaged window is to place a plastic covering over the crack. This will stop rain, snow and insects out of your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a simple solution is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that can provide protection from dust, water bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.
However, if the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to seek out a professional. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a hard object strikes your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency.
Another kind of crack is a stress fracture, which can develop gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape there are a few other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in 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 spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can decrease the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.
If the water is coming from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to get a professional to help you with the repairs immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. window repair are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.
In many cases, a simple caulking layer is enough to stop the leaks. Before applying the caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.
Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will ensure a seal between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can be worn out and allow water to enter your home.
The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of leaks. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint as a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Sometimes, a single or small group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind leaving cracks in the window. The good news is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut 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. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.
If you have an issue that is more serious such as cracks that form an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be recommended 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.
Installing grid windows is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins glued to the surface which gives them a split 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 prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps made of aluminum for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functionality as a real muntin or mullion.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash is an obvious sign that it's time to get some help. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is sealed.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed cords for sash. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash in place. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't really matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side to take it off. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It is important to check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it will be difficult to put the new sash in its proper slot and will affect how well the sash performs. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame as well, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as possible to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint can aid in protecting your window from the elements, too.