Repair Window 101: Your Ultimate Guide For Beginners When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's important to work with care. The first step is to wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will stop snow, rain and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing but also allow drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or a baseball or a stress like an abrupt temperature change, but it is crucial to get them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning correctly.

If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's a simple and inexpensive solution that will provide some protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters, as well as keeping out the weather.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to consult with an expert. An experienced glazier can identify the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair method.

An impact crack is the most popular type of window break typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and affect your window's energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually over time due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. The cracks start around the edge of your window, and can eventually grow into complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. This is a curvy, straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.

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

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood surrounding it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying a new layer.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

Examine window repair between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This helps to keep a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and allow water to get into the home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. They occur when the wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There may also be peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing 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 classic multi-paned windows. After WWII, larger expanses glass with tempered were made available. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports can get damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose 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 seal off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you're able to apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first go. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying a new coat.

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

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass, with the muntins being glued to the surface which gives them a split look. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. There are a variety of these drip caps made of aluminum at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than a replacement window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a sign that you must seek help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Fortunately, replacing them is relatively simple and can be accomplished in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. To reach the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip that separates the sash.

After you've removed your sash, it's important to take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on your new sash. If they're not the same, 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 easily fixed by placing the tabs in the correct places on the new window.


In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine the frame of your window for problems or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon 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 using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiling Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.