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

It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.

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

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.

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

If the crack appears to be getting larger or has become large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. A glazier who is experienced can identify the cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack may compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.

Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edge of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.

A pressure crack is a more serious crack but it is still able to be repaired. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure, which can cause expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take a step beyond nail polish and tape, there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks in it at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp spot under your window or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be the time to fix your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can create a range of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the home.

It is best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.

In many cases, a thin layer of caulking is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll have clean the area and take off any existing caulking.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time.

If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This creates a barrier of gas between the panes, which makes windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time, however, and let water get into the home.

Another indication of a leak is the presence of water stains on the ceiling and walls. window repair occur when wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars as they are referred to in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. Today, they're only used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small group of them, creating cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying components.

First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to completely dry before removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you have an issue that is more serious like cracks that create an hourglass-like shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be recommended to replace the sash. In these cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the window that is in place in terms of style and size.

Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows are made of a full glass pane with a series muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.


If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, consider installing a new drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a genuine mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash should be a sign that you need to contact a professional. If left unchecked, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is properly sealed and operating.

Often, the issue is caused by worn out or improperly hung the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to take it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the strip of separation that separates the sash.

It is important to examine the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to put the new sash in its proper place and could affect the way that the sash functions. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs at their proper positions on your new window.

You'll have to examine your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's recommended to check it regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable as time passes, particularly with exposure to the elements. If you find any obvious damage, it should be addressed as soon as you can, to avoid a bigger problem from developing.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can then finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, as well.