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When It's Time to Repair Windows It is important to be cautious when you are repairing windows. First, wear a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent shards of glass from cutting you as you work. Applying a plastic covering over the crack is an easy fix for a cracked window. This will prevent snow, rain and insects out of your home. Glass that has cracked Cracked glass can make your home appear less appealing and let drafts to get in. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact, such as soccer or baseball or stress, such as an abrupt temperature change, it is crucial to get them fixed as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and keep your windows working properly. If your window is damaged but not broken, a simple fix is to apply clear tape to it. This is a cheap and simple solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements. However, if the crack is severe or appears to be getting worse, you should consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced can identify the root of the problem and recommend an appropriate repair procedure. Impact cracks are the most popular type of window break, typically resulting from a hard object hitting your window with enough force to break it. These cracks usually have an arc of lines and broken pieces. They can be hazardous if they become loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect your window's energy efficiency. Stress cracks are a different kind of crack that develops over time as a result of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks start around the edges of your window and eventually grow into full-blown cracks. A more serious but still possible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is typically a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be the result of high or low air pressure, which could lead to expansion or contraction of the glass. If you're willing to go further than nail polish and tape there are several alternatives to fix cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more expensive but will provide a bit more protection and longevity for your windows. If you'd prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill cracks to keep them from getting worse and make your window look like it did not have a crack at all! Leaking Windows If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or you notice that the wood around it is brittle or rotting, it may be time to start a windows repair project. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions, which can lead to numerous issues in your home. They can decrease the quality of indoor air, lead to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If not addressed, they can also cause structural damage to the house. It is recommended to contact an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Don't ignore leaking windows. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold. In many cases the use of caulking is to stop leaks. It is important to clean the area first though, and remove any old caulking before applying a new layer. Check the weepholes of the frame for any debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, however they can get blocked by insect carcasses and other debris over time. Check the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This creates a gas barrier between the panes, which makes the windows more energy efficient. The seal could wear down over time,, and allow water to get into the home. Water stains on ceiling and walls are another indication of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated with water. There is also the possibility of peeling paint caused by the effects of water weakening its adhesive properties and tearing it away from the wall. Faux Muntins & Mullions In the past, muntins and mullions (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held glass panes in traditional multi-pane windows. Since New Addington window repair of glass that were tempered became available after WWII they went out of fashion. Nowadays, they're used as a decorative feature in a few older homes. Often just a small or a single group of these wooden supports can be damaged by wind or rain and cause cracks to the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these decaying or brittle elements. Clean the affected areas with a rag and an ammonia-based cleaner that won't leave a residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and cut the intersections of the horizontal and vertical window muntins with an exacta knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, seal the lower part of the window frame with painter's tape. Then, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular focus on the areas that were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat. If the problem is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's better to replace the sash. In these situations it is essential to locate an alternative window that is in line with the design and size of the present one. If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows come with a complete pane of glass with a series of muntins glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, however. If you're looking for a simple method to upgrade your windows, consider installing a new drip cap in order to stop 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 window sashes and provide the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin. Broken Sashes & Frames A broken window sash can be an obvious indication that it's time to seek assistance. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood rot and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working. The issue is usually caused by worn-out or improperly installed cords. It's easy to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to take off the metal tabs holding the sash. To do this, push up on one side (it isn't important which) of the sash then pull it towards the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To get access to the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the strip of separation that separates the sash. Once you've removed the sash, take the time to look at its metal tabs and compare them to those of the new sash. If they're not the same it can be difficult to insert the new one in its place and affect how the sash operates. This can be easily corrected by placing the tabs in the correct locations on your new window. You'll have to examine your window frame, too, for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to do on a regular basis, as wood shrinks and wears down over time. It is important to repair any visible damage as soon as you can to avoid a larger problem. If your window frames have deteriorated and are in need of repair, you can treat them with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled Linseed. After the treatment has dried for a total of two days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can protect your window from the elements, as well.