10 Repair Window That Are Unexpected When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is essential to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep rain, snow and insects out of 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 if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or a baseball or a stress like the sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and keep your windows working effectively.

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

If the crack is becoming larger or is getting more large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes and impact the efficiency of your windows.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which can develop gradually over time because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window, and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still feasible crack is the pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It is caused by low or high pressure, which can cause the glass to expand or contract.

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass when you're willing to go beyond nail varnish and tape. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It will make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window or the wood around it is weak or rotting, it might be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and even worsen allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming from outside or visible through the frame, it's a good idea to seek out an expert to assist you repair the issue right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a thin caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.

Check the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They're designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows have double panes You'll also have to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. Over time, the seal can be worn out and allow water into your home.

Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture which weakens the fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in classic multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only utilized as a decorative element in some older homes.

Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or rotting parts.


Clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Remove any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After you've cut the intersections, you can tape off the lower part of the window frame using painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the initial pass. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.

If you're experiencing an issue that is more serious, such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in middle of the window, then it's probably recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They are not as energy-efficient as traditional ones.

Installing window repairs Gillingham can stop water from getting into the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've broken a sill, you must replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and working.

The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and can be done in most double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to pull it out. To get access to the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove the parting strips that separate the sash.

After you've removed the sash, you must be sure to examine its metal tabs against those of your new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to put the new one in its slot and could affect the way it functions. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine your window frame for any damage or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you notice any obvious damage, it should be fixed as quickly as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.