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When It's Time to Repair WindowsIt's important to be careful when repairing your windows. Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from glass fragments.Covering the crack with a plastic sheet over the crack is a quick fix for a damaged window. This will prevent insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.Glass that has crackedGlass that is cracked can make your home appear less appealing and allow drafts to enter. If the cracks were caused by an impact (like the impact of a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, for example an abrupt temperature change it is crucial to have them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and keep your windows operating effectively.If your window is cracked but not broken, a quick fix is to apply clear tape to cover it. It's an easy and affordable solution that can provide protection from water, dust bugs and other particles, as well as keeping out the weather.However, if the crack is extensive or appears to be getting worse, it's best to seek out a professional. An experienced glazier will be able to determine the root cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair procedure.Impact cracks are the most common window cracks. They usually occur when a solid object is thrown at your window with enough force that it cracks. These cracks are usually accompanied by a starburst pattern of lines and broken pieces that can be dangerous if they fall loose. If you have double pane windows, this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes, which can affect the efficiency of your windows.Stress cracks are another type of crack that develops over time because of extreme temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors. The cracks start around the edge of your window and can eventually grow into full-blown cracks.A more serious but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy, curved line that can extend across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by high or low pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.If you're looking to take a step beyond nail polish and tape there are other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product such as Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide more protection and a longer lifespan for your windows. If you prefer to go the DIY route epoxy is a sturdy adhesive that can be used to fill in cracks to help keep them from getting worse and make your window appear like it never had a crack at all!Leaking WindowsIf you notice a damp zone under your window or that the wood around it appears weak or rotting, it might be time to replace your windows. In excess moisture, it creates a breeding ground for mold and mildew, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can cause indoor air pollution, sagging drywall and can worsen allergies. If left unchecked, they can also cause structural damage to the house.It is best to call a professional if the water is visible or coming from outside. Leaking windows are among the most common causes of structural damage and mold and should not be left untreated.In many instances, a single layer of caulking is enough to stop leaks. You'll need to carefully clean the area first however, and then take off any caulking that is old before applying new caulking.Examine the weepholes on the frame for any debris. They are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they can be clogged by insect corpses and other debris in time.Check the seal between the double-paned window and the frame. This will help to maintain a seal between the glass panes and make the windows more efficient. As time passes the seal may get worn out and let water into your home.Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when wall is soaked with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. There is also the possibility of peeling paint, which is a result of the water weakening its adhesive properties and pulling away from the wall.Faux Muntins & MullionsIn 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 larger expanses of tempered glass became available after WWII, they fell out of fashion. They're mostly used as a decorative element in some older homes.Wind or rain can damage one support or a small group of them, creating a crack in the window. Repairs can be made to the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.First, use a rag to clean the affected areas. Use ammonia-based cleaning products that doesn't leave any residue. Get rid of any rotting or loose pieces and trim the intersections of the painted vertical and horizontal window muntins using an exact knife. After you've trimmed the intersections, tape off the lower portion of the window frame with painter's tape. Now, you can apply a thick coat of white paint, paying particular attention to the areas which were lightly coated on the first coat. Allow the paint to completely dry prior to taking off the masking tape and applying the second coat.If the issue is more severe such as an hourglass-shaped crack in the middle of the window, it's recommended to replace the sash. In such cases, you'll need to look for a replacement that is similar to the existing window in both the design and size.Installing a grid window is a cheaper alternative. These windows are made of a complete glass pane that has a series of muntins that are fixed to the surface. This creates a divi-sected appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.If you're looking for an easy method to upgrade your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from leaking around the window frame. You can find a variety of these aluminum drip caps at most home centers for about $20. They're much simpler to install than an alternative window sash, and they'll provide you with the same functions as a real muntin or mullion.Broken Sashes & FramesA damaged window sash should be a sign that you should call for help. A sash that is broken left unchecked can cause water leaks, wood rot, and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've broken a sash you should replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.The issue is usually caused by worn-out or poorly installed cords. Luckily, replacing these is fairly easy and can be accomplished in all double-hung windows. You'll first need to remove the tabs of metal that hold the sash. Push up on the opposite side of the sash (it doesn't matter which side) and then pull it towards the opposite side in order to take it off. To reach the cords of the sash, you'll need to remove the strip that separates the sash.After you've removed your sash, you must make sure you examine its metal tabs against the tabs on your new sash. If they are different it will be difficult to put the new sash into its correct slot and could impact how the sash functions. Fortunately, window repair near me can be rectified by placing the tabs in their correct locations on your new window.You'll need to inspect your window frame, too for any damage or rot. It's a good idea to check regularly, since wood will shrink and break down as time passes. It is important to repair any visible damage as quickly as you can to avoid a more serious issue.If your window frames have deteriorated, you can treat them with a homemade preserver created of half mineral spirits and boiling linseed. After the treatment has dried, you can refinish your frames with a high-quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also protect your window against the elements.