5 Repair Window Projects That Work For Any Budget

When It's Time to Repair Windows

If your windows are in need of repair, it's essential to work carefully. First, put on a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to prevent glass shards from cutting you as you work.

Applying a plastic covering over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will keep rain, snow and insects from getting into your home.

Cracked glass

Cracked window glass not only make your home appear less appealing, but it can let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter whether the cracks are caused by an impact like a baseball or soccer or stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, but it is essential to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows functioning effectively.

Use clear tape to cover your damaged window, even if it's not broken. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water, bugs and other debris. It also keeps out the elements.

If the crack appears to be getting larger or is getting more extensive, it is best to consult with an expert. A professional glazier will determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

Impact cracks are the most frequent type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks are usually with a starburst-like pattern of lines and shattered pieces that could be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could compromise the gas in the panes of your double-pane window and decrease its energy efficiency.

Another type of crack is a stress fracture, that develops slowly as time passes, due to extreme temperature changes or other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.

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

There are other products that can be used to repair cracks in glass If you're willing to go further than nail varnish and tape. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will offer a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route, epoxy is a strong adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to prevent further damage and make your window appear like it did not have cracks at all!

Leaking Windows

If you notice a damp area under your window replacement or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to replace your windows. The excess moisture can create the perfect environment for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of problems for your home. They can reduce the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging of drywall and worsen symptoms of allergies. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.

If the water is coming in from outside or is visible through the frame it's best to seek out an expert to assist you repair the issue immediately. Don't put off leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll have clean the area and remove any existing caulking.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. They're designed to drain excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris as time passes.

Check the seal between your double-paned window and the frame made of metal. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. The seal may wear away over time,, and let water enter the home.

Another sign of leaks is the appearance of water 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 the water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past, muntins (or glazing bars, as they are referred to in the UK), separated and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass with tempered coatings became available following WWII They went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative element in a few older homes.

Rain or wind can cause damage to the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in an opening in the window. The good part is that you can repair most of these rotting or brittle components.

First, clean the affected areas using a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that doesn't leave a traces. Then, take off any rotting or loose parts and use an exacta-knife reduce the intersections between horizontal and vertical painted Window Doctor muntins. Once you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first stroke. Allow the paint to dry completely before removing the tape and applying a new coat.

If the problem is more severe like an hourglass-shaped crack in middle of the window, it's best to replace the sash. In these instances you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.

Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a glass pane, with a set 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. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. These are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes and provide the same function as a real mullion or muntin.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A damaged window sash must be a sign that you need to call for help. If not taken care of, a broken sash can cause wood rot, water leaks and more serious issues with the frame and sill. If you've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it immediately to ensure that the window is properly sealed.

The problem is often caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It is easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to take it from the window frame. It is important to remove the strip of separation that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the area where the sash cords are located.

It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash to those of the new one. If they're different, it may be difficult to insert the new sash into its proper slot and will impact how the sash performs. This can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in the correct locations on your new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll be required to inspect your window doctor frame for any damage or rot. This is a good thing to do regularly, as wood will shrink and break down over time. You should repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have begun to deteriorate and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried, you are able to finish your frames with high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will protect your window from the elements as well.