10 Healthy Repair Window Habits

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you during your work.

Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will keep rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact like soccer or baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it is not broken. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the weather.

However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should seek out an expert. A glazier who is experienced can determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair method.

A crack caused by an impact is the most common type of window break typically caused by a sharp object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they come loose. This crack can compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and window repairs other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

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

If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it never had cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you see an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture which can cause various issues within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even worsen 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 get a professional to help you to fix the problem immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first but you must also remove any old caulking before applying a new layer.

You'll also have to inspect the weep holes on the frame to make sure they're not clogged with debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time with insect corpses or other debris.

If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.

Another sign of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and leads to discoloration. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass that were tempered became available. They're mostly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

The effects of rain or wind can harm one support or Window repairs a small group, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

Clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave a residue. Then, take off any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick coat 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 another coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious such as cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window repair it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement window that is compatible with the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows consist of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They're much simpler to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to get some help. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious issues to the frame and sill. If you've broken a window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that hold the sash in place. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to carefully remove the strip that separates the sash.

It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash performs. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at the correct positions on your new Window repairs.

You'll have to examine your window frame as well, for any damage or rot. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll have to treat them with a homemade preservative created with half mineral spirits and half boiling the linseed oil. After the treatment is dry, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.