When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to be careful when working. First, wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.

An easy fix for a broken window Doctor is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home appear less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements to enter the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.

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

If the crack is large or appears to be getting worse, you should consult a professional. A professional glazier can determine the cause of a crack and Window doctor recommend the most effective repair method.

Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous if they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. It is typically an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of the window. It could be a 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. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY method epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to stop further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks in the first place!

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 replace your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen 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 a good idea to contact a professional to help you repair the issue right away. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

You'll also need to check the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

Make sure you have a seal between the double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mainly used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to a single support or a small group, leaving a crack in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these rotting or brittle components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and cut the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to tape off the lower portion 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 prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If the problem is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find the right replacement window that matches both the style and size of the present one.

If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are made of a full glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. These windows are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

Installing a drip cap can prevent water from leaking into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and 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 divides the sash from the other to allow access to the location where the sash cords are located.

After you've removed your sash, be sure to compare its metal tabs to those of the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one in its place and could affect the way it operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new window.

You'll have to examine the frame of your window replacement, too to look for any signs of damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, 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 an even bigger issue from arising.

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