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When It's Time to Repair Windows It is important to be cautious when fixing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass shattering. Covering Wickford window repairs with a plastic sheet over the crack is an easy solution for a window that has cracked. This will stop snow, rain, and insects from entering your home. Cracked Glass Glass that is cracked can make your home appear less attractive and allow drafts to pass through. It doesn't matter if the cracks result from an impact like soccer or a baseball, or stress, like a sudden temperature change, but it is important to have them fixed as quickly as possible to avoid further damage and to keep your windows working effectively. Use clear tape to cover your cracked window, even if it's not broken. It's a cheap and simple solution that provides protection from water, dust bugs and other particles and keep out the elements. If the crack is becoming bigger or is extensive, it is best to seek advice from a professional. A skilled glazier will be able to determine the root of the problem and suggest a suitable repair method. Impact cracks are the most common window breakage. They typically occur when a solid object hits your window with enough force that it breaks. These cracks are typically accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. The crack could affect the gas that is between the panes of your double-pane windows and lower its energy efficiency. Stress cracks are another kind of crack that develops because of extreme temperature changes and other environmental factors. These cracks begin around the edges of your window and can progress to full-blown cracks. A pressure crack is a much more serious crack, but it can still be fixed. It's usually a curvy line that runs across one or more sides of the window. It could be the 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 several other products available for repairing cracks in your window glass. Glass Repair Film, while more expensive, will give your windows more protection and durability. If you prefer to make it yourself epoxy is an adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks and prevent further damage. It can make your window appear as if it never had any cracks at all. Leaking Windows If you notice a damp spot under your window, or the wood around it is soft or decaying, it may be time to repair your windows. Mold and mildew thrive in humid conditions which can cause numerous issues in your home. They can reduce the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging drywall, and can worsen allergy symptoms. If left unchecked they could cause structural damage to the house. It is recommended to contact an expert if the water is visible or coming from outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They are the most frequent cause of structural damage and mold. In many instances, a single caulking layer is enough to stop leaks. Before applying the new caulking, you'll need to clean the area and take off any caulking you have already applied. You'll also have to inspect the weep holes in the frame to make sure they're not blocked with debris. These holes are designed to drain excess rainwater, but they could become clogged over time by insect carcasses or other debris. Examine the seal between your double-paned windows and the frame. This will help to maintain a barrier of gas between the panes, making windows more energy efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home. Water stains on the ceiling and walls are another indicator of a leak. The drywall turns discolored when it is soaked with water. Peeling paint is another sign 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 called in the UK) separated and were used to hold the panes of multi-paned windows. Since bigger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII They went out of fashion. They're mostly used as decorative elements in some older homes. The effects of rain or wind can harm a single support or a small group, leaving cracks in the window. The good thing is that you are able to repair most of these rotting or brittle components. First, clean the affected areas with a sponge and an ammonia-based cleaning agent that won't leave any residue. Then, remove any rotting or loose components and use an exacta-knife to trim the intersections between the horizontal and vertical painted window 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 pass. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat. If you're dealing with an even more serious issue, such as a crack that forms an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, then it's probably best to replace the sash. In these situations, it's important to find a replacement window that matches both the style and size of the current one. For a less expensive alternative you can install an attached grid window. These windows feature a complete pane of glass that is topped with a series of muntins glued to the surface creating a divided look. They're not as energy-efficient as traditional windows, but they are. Installing a drip cap will stop water from entering the window frame. The majority of home centers sell aluminum drip cap options for about $20. These are much easier to install than replacement window sashes, and will provide the same functionality as a real mullion or muntin. Broken Sashes & Frames A broken window sash should be a sign that you must seek help. If left unchecked, a damaged sash could cause water leaks, wood rot and more serious problems with the frame and sill. If you have a damaged sash, you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that the window is properly sealed. The problem is often caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing them is fairly easy and is possible in most double-hung windows. To begin, you'll need to remove the tabs made of metal that secure the sash. Press upwards on the opposite side of the sash (it isn't important which side) and then pull towards the opposite side to remove it. It is important to remove the strip of separation that is what separates the sash from other so you can access the area where the sash cords are. It's important that you compare the metal tabs of the old sash with the new one. If they're different, it will be hard to put the new one in its place and affect how the sash operates. This can be corrected by putting the tabs in the correct places on the new window. You'll have to examine your window frame, too, for any damage or decay. It's a good idea perform this inspection regularly since the wood shrinks and gets worn down over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you find any visible damage it should be fixed as quickly as possible to prevent an even bigger issue from arising. If your window frames are in bad condition, you'll need to treat them using a homemade preserver made by mixing half mineral spirits with half boiled Linseed oil. After the treatment has dried, you can restore your frames using high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint will also protect your window against the elements.