Why Repair Window Is The Right Choice For You

When It's Time to Repair Windows
It's important to be careful when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a simple fix for a cracked window. This will keep rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if the cracks are caused by an impact, like soccer or a baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature drop, but it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows working effectively.
If your window is damaged but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to protect your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your window's energy use.
Another type of crack is a stress crack, which develops gradually as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window, and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a more severe crack but it is still able to be fixed. It's usually an arc of curvy lines that extends across one or more sides of your window. It can be the 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 several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY method, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window look like it did not have cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. Excessive moisture creates an ideal environment for mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can lead to indoor air pollution, sagging walls, and can even worsen allergies. If not addressed, window glass repairs can also cause structural damage to the house.
It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need clean the area and take off any existing caulking.
It is also important to examine the weep holes on the frame to ensure they're not blocked by debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to check the seal between the glass and the frame. This will ensure an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. As time passes the seal will be worn out and allow water to enter your home.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. There may also be peeling paint caused by the effects of water destroying its adhesive properties and pulling 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 traditional multi-pane windows. Since larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Today, they're mainly utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.
The effects of rain or wind can harm the support of a single piece or small group, leaving a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower part of the window frame. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a second coat.
If you have an even more serious issue like cracks that form an hourglass shape in the middle of the window it's likely to be best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll need to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both style and size.
To save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass, with muntins that are that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
Installing a drip-cap will stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They're a lot easier to install than windowsash replacements, and they'll provide you with the same function as a genuine mullion or muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash can be an obvious sign that it's time to get assistance. A broken sash, if left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.
Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn or poorly installed sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be done in the majority of double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need remove the tabs made of metal that keep the sash in place. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash 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 parting strips that separate the sash.
After you've removed the sash, you must take the time to examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in the correct positions on your new window.
You'll need to inspect your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to do regularly, as wood will shrink and wear down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made with half mineral spirits and half boiling linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.