What Experts In The Field Want You To Know
When It's Time to Repair Windows
If your windows are in need of repair, you must be careful when working. First, you should wear a pair of safety goggles and gloves that are cut-resistant to stop glass shards from cutting you during your work.
An easy fix for a window that is broken is to place an aluminum cover over the crack. This will keep insects, snow, and rain from entering your home.
Cracked glass
Cracked window glass not only makes your home look less appealing but let drafts and other elements into the house. If the cracks were caused by an collision (like an impact from a soccer or baseball ball) or are a result of stress, such as a sudden change in temperature, it's important to get them fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your windows are operating correctly.
Use clear tape to cover the cracks in your window, even if it's not damaged. This is a cheap and simple solution to protect your window from water, dust, bugs and other debris. It also shields your windows from the elements.
If the crack is becoming larger or has become extensive, it is best to seek advice from an expert. A glazier who is experienced will be able to determine the cause of the crack and suggest a suitable repair method.
An impact crack is the most common kind of window break, typically caused by a sharp object striking your window with enough force to fracture it. The cracks are usually followed by a starburst pattern of lines, and shattered pieces that can be quite risky if they break loose. If you have double-pane windows this crack could weaken the gas layer between the panes and impact your window's energy efficiency.
Another type of crack is a stress crack that develops slowly as time passes because of extreme temperature changes or other environmental elements. These cracks usually begin near the edges of your window and eventually can develop into full-blown breaks.
A more serious, but feasible crack is one that is a pressure crack. It is a curvy straight line that can stretch across the window on one or more sides. It could be caused by low or high pressure that causes the glass to expand or contract.
If you're ready to take a step beyond tape and nail polish, there are a few other products that can be used to repair cracks in your window glass. A product like Glass Repair Film is a bit more costly, but it will provide a bit more protection and durability for your windows. If you'd rather take the DIY route epoxy is a durable adhesive that can fill in cracks to help prevent further damage and make your window look like it has never had cracks at all!
Leaking Windows
If you notice a damp spot under your window, or you notice that the wood around it is weak or decaying, it might be time to start a windows repair project. Excessive moisture creates the perfect environment for mildew and mold, which can lead to a myriad of issues for your home. They can affect the quality of air inside, contribute to sagging of drywall and increase the severity of allergy symptoms. If not addressed they can cause structural damage to the structure of the house.
It's best to call an expert if the water is visible or leaking from the outside. Do not ignore windows that are leaking. They're a major cause of structural damage and mold.
In many instances, a single caulking layer is all that's needed to stop leaks. Before you apply the new caulking, you'll need clean the area and get rid of any caulking you have already applied.

Examine the weepholes on the frame for debris. These are designed to drain off excess rainwater, but they could be clogged by insect corpses and other debris as time passes.
If windows are double-paned it is also necessary to inspect the seal between the glass and the metal frame. This will help maintain a barrier between the glass panes and make windows more efficient. The seal can wear down over time,, and allow water to leak into the house.
Another indication of leaks is the presence of water stains on ceiling and walls. These occur when drywall is saturated with moisture that weakens its fibers and causes discoloration. Peeling paint is another indication of water altering the adhesive properties of the paint and pulling it 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. After WWII larger expanses of glass with tempered were made available. They're used only as decorative elements in some older homes.
Sometimes it is the case that a small or even a single group of these wooden supports may be damaged by wind or rain, leaving cracks in the window. You can repair the majority of these brittle or decaying parts.
First take a rag and clean the affected areas. Make use of a cleaner based on ammonia that will not leave residue. Then, remove any loose or rotting parts and use an exacta-knife to cut the intersections between the vertical and horizontal painted window muntins. After trimming the intersections, use painter's masking tape to tape off the lower portion of the window frame. Apply a thick layer of white paint to the areas you lightly painted in the first pass. Allow the paint to fully dry prior to taking off the masking tape, and applying the second coat.
If you're experiencing an even more serious issue such as cracks that create an hourglass shape in the middle of the window, it's likely to be better to replace the sash. In these cases you'll need to search for a replacement that matches the window that is in place in terms of the design and size.
Installing a grid window is a less expensive option. These windows have a full pane of glass that is topped with the muntins being that are glued to the surface creating a divided appearance. They're not as energy efficient as traditional windows, but they are.
If you're looking for an easy way to update your windows, consider installing an additional drip cap to stop water from getting into the window frame. You can purchase a range of these drip caps made of aluminum at many home centers for less than $20. They are much easier to install than replacement windows sashes, and will provide the same functions as a genuine mullion or a muntin.
Broken Sashes & Frames
A damaged window sash must be a signal that you must seek help. A broken sash, if ignored, could lead to water leaks, wood decay and other serious problems to the frame and sill. If you've got a damaged window sash, replace it as soon as possible to ensure that your window is sealed and operating.
The issue is usually caused by damaged or improperly installed cords. It's simple to replace these cords in most double-hung window models. First, you'll need to remove tabs made of metal that hold the sash. To do this, you need to push up on one side (it doesn't matter which) of the sash and then pull in toward the opposite side to remove it from the window frame. To access the cords of the sash, you'll need to carefully remove the parting strips that separate the sash.
It is crucial to check the metal tabs on the old sash to those of the new one. If they're not the same it can be difficult to put the new one into its slot and could affect the way it operates. Fortunately, window repairs can be corrected by simply placing the tabs in their correct positions on the new window.
You'll have to examine your window frame as well for any damage or decay. It's a good idea to perform this inspection regularly since wood shrinks and becomes less durable over time, especially with exposure to the elements. If you spot any visible damage, it must be addressed as soon as you can to avoid an even bigger issue from arising.
If your window frames are deteriorating they can be treated with a homemade preserver made of half mineral spirits and boiled linseed. After the treatment has dried for two full days, you can finish your frames with a high quality latex paint. A fresh coat of paint can also shield your window from the elements.