Repair Window Tools To Simplify Your Everyday Life

When It's Time to Repair Windows

It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.

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

Glass that has cracked

Cracked window glass not only makes your home appear less appealing but let drafts and other elements into the home. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as a baseball or soccer or stress, such as the sudden temperature change, it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and to keep your windows functioning 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 keeps out the elements.

If the crack is getting bigger or is large, it is recommended to seek advice from a professional. A professional glazier can determine the root of the crack and recommend the best repair method.

An impact crack is the most frequent type of window break, usually resulting from a solid object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and shattered pieces that can be quite dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes and affect the efficiency of your windows.

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

A pressure crack is a more severe crack however it can be fixed. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of your window and could be the result of low or high air pressure, which can lead to expansion or contraction of the glass.

If you're ready to take further than tape and nail polish, there are several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to door repair cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear like it never had any cracks in it at any point.

Leaking Windows

If you notice an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair. Mildew and mold thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to a number of problems within your home. They can reduce indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall and even worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the home.

It's best to call a professional if the water is visible or leaking from outside. Don't put off leaking windows. They are a leading cause of structural damage and mold.

In many cases caulking is a great option to stop leaks. You'll need to thoroughly clean the area first, however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying a new layer.

Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These holes are designed to drain rainwater, but they could become clogged in time due to insect corpses or other debris.

Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and help make the windows more efficient. Over time the seal may wear out and allow 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. Peeling paint is another indicator of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it from the wall.

Faux Muntins & Mullions

In the past muntins (or glazing bars, as they are referred to in the UK) were a way to separate and held the panes of traditional multi-paned windows. Since the larger expanses of glass that were tempered became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in some older homes.

Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by rain or wind and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle parts.

First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaners that does not leave traces. Take off any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins using an exact knife. After trimming the intersections then, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower part of the window frame. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying close attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Let the paint completely dry prior to removing the masking tape and applying the second coat.

If you're experiencing an even more serious issue like a crack that forms an hourglass-like shape in the center of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these instances, it's important to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one.

If you want to save money you can install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a complete glass pane, with a set of muntins, which are glued to the surface. This gives them a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.

If you're looking for an easy method to modernize your windows, think about installing a new drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. Home centers typically sell these aluminum drip cap options for about $20. They're a lot easier to install than an alternative window sash and will provide you with the same functionality as a genuine muntin or mullion.

Broken Sashes & Frames

A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time for some 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've damaged your sash, it is recommended to replace it right away to ensure that the window is sealed.

Most of the time, the issue is caused by worn out or poorly installed the sash cords. Fortunately, replacing them is quite simple and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. First, you'll need to take off the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Press upwards on the side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull toward the opposite side to remove it. You'll want to carefully remove the strip that divides the sash from the other side so that you can get to the location where the sash cords reside.

It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to put the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed by placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.

In addition to the sashes, you'll have to examine the frame of your windows for problems or rot. It's a good idea do this regularly as wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, particularly after exposure to the elements. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as possible to avoid a more serious issue.

If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them using a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled in linseed. After the treatment has dried for two days, you can restore your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.