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

If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. The first step is to put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work.

A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place a plastic cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering the home.

Cracked glass

Glass that is cracked can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an impact (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are the result of stress, like a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are working correctly.


If your window is damaged but not broken, an easy solution is to apply clear tape to it. It's an easy and affordable solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs, and other squatters and also keep out the elements.

If the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's recommended to consult a professional. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They could be dangerous in the event that they become loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and lower its energy efficiency.

Stress cracks are another type 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 can progress to complete breaks.

A pressure crack is a more severe crack, but it can still be repaired. This is most often a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.

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 can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you prefer to go the DIY method epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help stop further damage and make your window appear like it did not have a crack at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood surrounding it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix 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 lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and even increase the severity of allergies. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the house.

It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Leaking windows are one of the leading causes of structural damage and mold So don't leave them untreated.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first though, and get rid of any old caulking prior to applying new caulking.

Check the weepholes of the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged over time with insect corpses or other debris.

Make sure you have a seal between your double-paned windows and the metal frame. This will help to maintain a gas barrier between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to leak into the house.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water stains on the ceiling and walls. They occur when the drywall is saturated by moisture that weakens its fibers, causing discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects 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 referred to in the UK) separated and held the panes of classic multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.

Clean the affected areas using a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that doesn't leave a traces. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming window repairs near me using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are fixed to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple way to update your windows, think about installing a new drip cap in order to prevent water from leaking around the window frame. Most home centers sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same function as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash is an obvious indication that it's time for assistance. A sash that is broken ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and functioning.

The problem is often caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. 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, and then pull it toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is crucial to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different it's difficult to insert the new one into its slot and impact how the sash operates. Fortunately, this can be easily rectified by placing tabs in the correct places on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll also have to examine your window frame for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a larger problem.

If your window frames are in poor condition, you'll have to treat them using a homemade preserver made using half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you are able to refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.