10 Unexpected Repair Window Tips

When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when fixing your windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to shield yourself from glass shattering.
A quick fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow and rain from getting into the home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like a baseball or soccer ball) or are a result of stress, for example a sudden change in temperature it is crucial to have them repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning effectively.
Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the weather.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's best to seek out an expert. A skilled glazier can determine the root cause of the crack and recommend an appropriate repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most common type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to fracture it. These cracks are typically followed by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be quite dangerous if they come loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but still possible crack is a pressure crack. This is a curvy, curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by low or high pressure which can cause the glass to expand or contract.
If you're looking to take further than nail polish and tape, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive it will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather do it yourself, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at any point.
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it is soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in excess moisture and can cause a number of problems within your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can even increase the severity of allergies. If left unchecked they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame it's a good idea to contact an expert to assist you repair the issue right away. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In window repairs near me , caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, it's necessary to clean the area and remove any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned You'll also have to examine the seal between the glass and the frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time, however, and allow water to get into the home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall will turn discolored once it is soaked with water. You might also find peeling paint, which is a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in the classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. Today, they're mainly used as a decorative element in a few older homes.
Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group of them, creating an opening in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle and decaying components.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.
If you're dealing with a more severe problem, such as cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window then it's probably better to replace the sash. In these instances it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the style and size of the current one.
For a less expensive alternative, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a glass pane, with a set of muntins that are glued on the surface. This creates a split appearance. These windows aren't as efficient in terms of energy efficiency as traditional windows.
If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They are much simpler to install than replacement window sashes and provide the same functionality as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. A damaged sash, ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot, and other serious issues to 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 sealed and functioning.
Often, the issue is caused by worn or improperly hung sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords on most double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to dislodge the metal tabs that keep the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the sash cords, you'll need to remove with care the parting strips that separate the sash.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they are different it will be difficult to place the new sash in its proper place and could affect how well the sash operates. Luckily, this is easily corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.
You'll need to check the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down as time passes. If you find any obvious damage, it should be repaired as soon as possible to prevent a bigger problem from developing.
If your window frames are in poor condition you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative created by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements, as well.