10 Repair Window Tricks Experts Recommend

When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, it's important to work with care. First, put on a pair of cut-resistant gloves and safety goggles to prevent glass shards from slicing you while you work.
A quick fix for a broken window is to put a plastic cover over the crack. This will prevent rain, snow, and insects from entering your home.
Cracked Glass
Glass that is cracked not only make your home appear less appealing however, it could let drafts and other elements into the house. It doesn't matter if cracks result from an impact like a baseball or soccer, or stress, like an abrupt temperature drop, but it is essential to have them repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage and ensure that your windows are functioning properly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not broken. This is a simple, inexpensive solution to shield your window from dust, water bugs, and other debris. It also helps keep out the weather.
If the crack is extensive or is getting worse, it's recommended to consult an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and recommend a suitable repair method.
Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They typically occur when a sharp object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks usually have an explosion of lines and broken pieces. They can be dangerous in the event that they become loose. If you have double-pane windows, this crack could compromise the gas layer between the panes, which can 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 usually begin near the edge of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown cracks.
A pressure crack is a much more serious crack however it can be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be a result of high or low air pressure that can cause contraction or expansion of the glass.
If you're ready to take further than nail polish and tape there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive can provide your windows with more protection and durability. If you'd rather take the DIY option epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks in the first place!
Leaking Windows
If you see an area of dampness beneath your window, or notice that the wood around it is soft or decaying, it might be time to consider a window repair project. The excess moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew which can cause a variety of issues for your home. They can affect indoor air quality, lead to sagging drywall, and can increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they could cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
It's best to call an expert if water is visible or coming from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of mold and structural damage.
In many instances the use of caulking is to stop leaks. Before applying the caulking, you'll need to clean the area and remove any existing caulking.
Check the weepholes on the frame for debris. They are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris over time.
If windows are double-paned, you'll also need to inspect the seal between the glass and the frame. This helps to keep the gas from escaping between the panes, making the windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may wear out and allow water into your home.
Recommended Reading stains on walls and ceiling are another sign of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is saturated by water. Peeling paint is another indication of water affecting the adhesive properties of the paint, and pulling it away from the wall.
Faux Muntins & Mullions
In the past, mullions and muntins (or glazing bars in the UK) separated and held panes of glass in classic multi-pane windows. After WWII larger expanses of tempered glass were available. Today, they're only used as a decorative element in some older homes.
Wind or rain can damage the support of a single piece or small portion of them, resulting in cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair the majority of these rotting or brittle parts.
First employ a rag to clean the affected areas. Make use of ammonia-based cleaners that will not leave residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife cut the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections using painter's masking tape, you can use the tape to seal off the lower section of the window frame. Apply a thick coat of white paint to the areas that you lightly painted in the initial pass. Let the paint dry completely before taking off the tape and applying another coat.
If the issue is more serious, such as an hourglass-shaped fracture in the 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 the design and size of the current one.
If you want to save money, you can also install an attached grid window. These windows are constructed of a full glass pane with a series 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.
Installing a drip cap can stop water from entering the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for around $20. They are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and offer the same functions as a real mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A broken window sash should be a sign that you need to contact a professional. A broken sash, if not addressed, can lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you have a broken sash you should replace it as soon as you can to ensure that your window is sealed and working.
Often, the problem is caused by worn or improperly installed the sash cords. It is easy to replace these cords in the majority of double-hung window models. You'll first need to remove the metal tabs holding the sash. Then, push up on the other side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull towards the opposite side in order to remove it. You'll need to remove the parting strip that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the location where the sash cords are located.
It is important to compare the metal tabs of the old sash to the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to insert the new one in its slot and impact how the sash functions. This can be corrected by placing the tabs in their proper locations on your new window.
You'll need to inspect the frame of your window, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood shrinks and wears down as time passes. If you notice any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as you can to avoid the development of a larger issue.
If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them with a homemade preservative made with half mineral spirits and half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using a high-quality latex paint. A new coat of paint will help to protect your window from the elements too.