10 Unexpected Repair Window Tips

When It's Time to Repair Windows
It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a simple solution for a window that has cracked. This will prevent snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.
Cracked Glass
Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is essential to have them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows functioning properly.
If your window is cracked, but not broken, a quick solution is to apply clear tape to it. window repair is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also keeps out the elements.
However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult a professional. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack 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 break it. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous in the event that they become loose. This crack can compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.
A more serious but possible crack is a pressure crack. This is most often 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 lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.
If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY option epoxy is a durable adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair project. Mildew and mold thrive in excessive moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.
If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are among the leading causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before window repair apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.
Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes, and will make windows more efficient. As time passes, the seal can be worn out and allow water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated by moisture which weakens the fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are known in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports could be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.
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 trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to the areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.
If you're experiencing a more severe problem, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's better to replace the sash. In these cases, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the present one.
Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows have a full pane of glass, with a series of muntins glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy-efficient as traditional ones.
If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, think about installing a new 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 are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion, or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. A damaged sash, not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is relatively simple and is possible in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords reside.
After you've removed the sash, you must take the time to examine its metal tabs against those of the new sash. If they're not the same it's difficult to place the new one in its place and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed by placing tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and wears down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as fast as you can, to avoid a larger problem.
If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements, as well.