Five Repair Window Projects To Use For Any Budget When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

Placing a plastic cover over the crack is a simple fix for a damaged window. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering the home.

Glass that has cracked

Broken windows not only make your home look less appealing however, it could also allow drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from dust, water bugs and other particles and keep out the elements.

If the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, it's best to consult an expert. window repair who is experienced can determine the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair method.

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. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time due to extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually expand into full-blown break.

A more serious but feasible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in window glass if you're willing go beyond nail varnish and tape. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to do it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be the time to fix your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mildew and mold, which can create a range of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's best to contact an expert to assist you to fix the problem right away. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and get rid of any caulking that is in place.


You'll also need to check the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked by debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

Examine the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal will wear out and allow water to enter your home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indication of leaks. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports could get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. The good part is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Then, remove 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, seal the lower portion of the window frame using painter's tape. Then, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying close attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first pass. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these instances it's crucial to find the right replacement window that matches the design and size of the present one.

Installing grid windows is a more affordable option. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane with a series muntins, which are glued to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps made of aluminum for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements and come with the same functionality as an authentic muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot 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 properly sealed and working.

Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. To start, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash, and then pull in toward the other side to remove 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 area where the sash cords reside.

After you've removed your sash, you must be sure to compare its metal tabs to the tabs on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its slot and affect how the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily fixed by placing tabs in their proper positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window frame for any problems or rot. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames are deteriorating and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then restore your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.