Five Repair Window Lessons From The Professionals

When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work with care. The first step is to put on a pair of safety gloves and cut-resistant gloves to prevent glass shards from cutting you during your work.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a cracked window. This will keep insects, snow and rain from entering the home.
Cracked glass
Cracked glass can make your home look less appealing and let drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if cracks are caused by an impact like soccer or baseball, or stress, like an abrupt temperature change, it is important to have them repaired as soon as you can in order to prevent further damage and to ensure that your windows are functioning correctly.
If your window is cracked but not broken, an easy fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other sand. It also helps keep out the elements.
If the crack is getting larger or is getting more deep, it is advised to consult with a professional. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the most effective repair method.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They usually occur when a sharp object strikes your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edges of your window, and can progress to full-blown breaks.
A more serious, but doable crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy curve that extends across the window on one or more sides. It can be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows if you're willing go beyond tape and nail varnish. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can give your windows more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to DIY, epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is soft or rotting, it could be time for a windows repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of problems for your home. They can decrease indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If left unchecked, they can cause structural damage to your house.
If the water is coming in from the outside or is visible through the frame, it's a good idea to get a professional to help you repair the issue immediately. Leaking windows are one of the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first, however, and then get rid of any old caulking prior to applying the new layer.
It is also important to examine the weep holes in the frame to ensure they're not blocked with debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, but they can become clogged with insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame. This will help maintain a seal between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water to enter your home.
Another sign of leaks is the presence of water-based stains on the ceiling and walls. The drywall becomes discolored when it is saturated by water. There may also be peeling paint as a result of water destroying its adhesive properties and tearing away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK) were a way to separate and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mainly used as decorative elements in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports can get damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or rotting components.
First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that does not leave traces. Get window repairs near me of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've cut the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick layer of white paint, paying close attention to areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry before taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these situations it's crucial to find a replacement window that matches the style and size of the existing one.
Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins that are glued to the surface which gives them a split appearance. These windows aren't as energy efficient as traditional windows.
If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, you should consider 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 about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same function as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash is an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. If not taken care of, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sill, you must 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. Luckily, replacing these is relatively simple and can be accomplished in the majority of double-hung windows. To start, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that keep the sash in place. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords are.
Once you've removed the sash, be sure to look at its metal tabs and compare them to the ones on the new sash. If they're different, it will be hard to place the new one in its slot and affect how the sash functions. Fortunately, this issue can be corrected by simply placing tabs in their proper places on your new window.
In addition to the sashes, you'll need to check your window frame for any problems or decay. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood will shrink and wear down as time passes. If you find any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can finish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also shield your window from the elements.