10 Repair Window Tricks Experts Recommend

When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows require repair, it's important to be careful when working. Wear safety goggles and gloves to shield yourself from glass fragments.
Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy fix for a cracked window. This will stop rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Cracked window glass not only makes your home appear less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact, such as soccer or baseball or a stress like a sudden temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning 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 dust, water, bugs and other debris and also keep out the weather.
If the crack is large or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair procedure.
Impact cracks are the most frequent window breakage. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. The cracks typically have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous when they break loose. This crack can compromise the gas between the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.
Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops due to extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.
A more serious but feasible crack is the pressure crack. This is most often a curvy line that extends across one or more sides of your window and can be the result of high or low air pressure, which could cause expansion or contraction of the glass.
There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in windows If you're willing to go further than tape and nail varnish. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you'd rather 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 like it never had any cracks in it at all.
Leaking Windows
If you see a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or rotting, it could be time to start a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in excess moisture, which can lead to various issues within your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the house.
It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Leaking windows are among the main causes of structural and mold damage, so don't leave them untreated.
In many cases, a simple layer of caulking is all you need to stop the leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to check the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain an airtight seal between the glass panes and help make windows more efficient. Over time the seal will get worn out and let water into your home.
repair timber windows stains on ceiling and walls are another sign of a leak. The drywall becomes discolored when it is soaked with water. You might also find peeling paint caused by the effects of the 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 traditional multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available. They're mainly used as a decorative feature in some older homes.
Most of the time, a single or small group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.
Clean the affected areas using a cloth and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Remove any loose or rotting pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the first pass. Let the paint completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If the issue is more serious like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find an alternative window that is in line with both the style and size of the current one.
Installing a grid window is a more affordable option. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a split appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, however.
Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. Home centers typically sell these drip caps in aluminum for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion, or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a signal that you need to call for help. If it's not checked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you have 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 out or improperly installed cords for sash. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it towards the other side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords for the sash, you'll have to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash.
It's important that you check the metal tabs on the old sash with the new one. If they are different it can be difficult to place the new sash into its proper slot and will affect how well the sash performs. This can be easily corrected by putting the tabs in the correct locations on your new window.
You'll have to examine the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. You should repair any visible damage as quickly as you can, to avoid a more serious issue.
If your window frames are deteriorating, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created with half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can help to protect your window from the elements, too.