10 Repair Window Tips All Experts Recommend When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, it's essential to be careful when working. First, put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.

An easy fix for a broken window is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will prevent insects, snow and rain from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that is cracked not only makes your home less attractive but also let drafts and other elements to enter the home. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, such as a baseball or soccer, or stress, like the sudden temperature change, it is important to have them fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning properly.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window if it's not damaged. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from dust, water, bugs and other debris, as well as keeping out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to consult with a professional. An experienced glazier can determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of the double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes, because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown breaks.

A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a 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 that causes the glass to expand or contract.


There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows when you're willing to go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window appear like it never had cracks in the first place!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time for a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can create a range of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and even worsen allergies. Unchecked, they may also cause structural damage to your house.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's best to get a professional to assist with the repairs right away. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are a leading cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, but you must also get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not clogged with debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris in time.

If windows are double-paned You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This creates the gas from escaping between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water get into the home.

The water stains on the walls and ceiling are another sign of the presence of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small portion of them, resulting in a crack in the window. The good news is that you can repair the majority of these decaying or brittle parts.

Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. 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 section of the window frame. Now, you can apply a heavy coat of white paint, paying special attention to areas that were lightly coated in the first pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. These windows are not as energy efficient as traditional windows.

If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, you should consider installing an additional drip cap to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at the majority of home centers for around $20. They're much simpler to install than a replacement window sash and come with the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to contact a professional. If it's not checked the broken sash may cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold 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. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.

Once you've removed the sash, be sure to compare its metal tabs to the ones on the new sash. If they're not the same, it will be hard to insert the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs at the correct places on the new window.

In window repairs near me to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for damage or decay. It's a good idea to check it regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as fast as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and boiling Linseed. After the treatment is dry, you can restore your frames using the finest latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will aid in protecting your window from the elements as well.