15 Shocking Facts About Repair Window You Didn't Know

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows require repair, you must work carefully. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shards.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a cracked window. This will keep snow, rain, and insects from entering your home.

Cracked Glass

Glass that has cracked can make your home look less appealing and allow drafts to pass through. The cracks could be caused by an collision (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt change in temperature, it's important to get them repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly.

Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window if it is not damaged. This is a quick, low-cost solution to shield your window from water, dust bugs and other sand. It also shields your windows from the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting bigger or is deep, it is advised to speak with an expert. A professional glazier can identify the root of the crack and recommend the best repair procedure.

Impact cracks are the most frequent window cracks. They typically occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and reduce its energy efficiency.

Another kind of crack is a stress crack which develops gradually as time passes due to extreme temperature fluctuations or other environmental elements. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually enlarge into full-blown breaks.

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

If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are several other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a little more expensive, but will provide more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and stop further damage. It can make your window repairs appear like it never had any cracks at all.

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window, or the wood around it appears soft or rotting it could be time to repair your windows. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergies. If not checked, they could cause structural damage to your home.

If the water is coming in from outside or visible through the frame it's a good idea to seek out a professional to assist repair the issue immediately. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of mold and structural damage.

In many instances, caulking can be used to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and remove any caulking that is in place.

Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. These holes are designed to remove rainwater, but they can also become blocked over time by insect carcasses or other debris.

Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame made of metal. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. Over time the seal may get worn out and let water to enter your home.

Water stains on the walls and ceiling are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. You might also find peeling paint as a result of water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars as they are called in the UK), separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Today, they're only utilized as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to one support or a small group of them, creating a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle and decaying parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use a cleaner based on ammonia that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In such cases you'll have to search for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both style and size.

If you want to save money you can also put in an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass with muntins that are glued to the surface, giving them a divided look. They're not as efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for a simple method to modernize your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Most home centers sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're much easier to install than an alternative window sash and come with the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for some help. If not taken care of the broken sash may cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged sash, you should replace it right away to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

Often, the problem is caused by worn or poorly installed the sash cords. It's easy to replace these cords on the majority of double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it does not matter which side) of the sash, and then pull in toward the other side to remove it from the window frame. You'll want to carefully remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other to allow access to the area where the sash cords are.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same, it can be difficult to put the new sash in its correct slot and could impact how the sash operates. This can be easily fixed by putting the tabs in their correct positions on your new upvc window repairs.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect the frame of your windows for problems or decay. It's recommended to do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you notice any visible damage, it must be repaired as soon as you can, to avoid the development of a larger issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created from half mineral spirits and boiling in linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you are able to finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your upvc window repair from the elements.