Have you noticed that your windows let in a burst of cold air? Is a room in your home not getting warm/cold as it should? It might be time to start considering replacing your windows. However, this is not exactly a weekend agenda as a homeowner. You’re likely hoping to save for perhaps a few more months.
The good news is that depending on the severity of the problem, there are a few ways to temporarily repair a window as you wait to do a proper window replacement project down the line. In this post, we’ll share some quick and easy methods to temporarily repair a window.
5 Fast and Simple Methods to Temporarily Repair a Window
Can’t start a window replacement project at home just yet? Here are 5 quick and easy ways to temporarily repair a window in the meantime:
1. Use Weather Strips to Prevent Drafts
When the weather turns frigid, you might need to find ways to promptly address drafty windows. Weather strips are an effective and affordable solution to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home and temporarily treat drafty or leaky windows.
Weather strips are easy to install, and are usually available at any hardware or home improvement store. They typically feature a sticky side and a padded foam or plastic side. To apply them, lock your windows in place, measure the length and width, cut the strips to the appropriate size, remove the backing paper, and adhere them to the window.
Keep in mind that this is not a permanent fix. You’ll need to replace the strips once the adhesive wears off or as the seasons change.
2. Cover the Cracks
Imagine you’ve discovered a long crack in your window glass after a severe hail and ice storm. While the glass hasn’t shattered, the crack is quite noticeable. You’ve scheduled a professional replacement, but the expert won’t be available for a few days. How can you protect your home and property from additional winter weather with quick and inexpensive way to temporarily repair a window?
Visit your local hardware or home improvement store to purchase some heavy-duty tape, such as duct tape, which is moisture-resistant, and a thick tarp or plastic sheet. With just a small investment, you can fix the cracked window by making a temporary barrier that keeps drafts and moisture from entering your home.
While this may not be the most aesthetically pleasing solution, it will suffice until you can get a full custom window replacement.
3. Create a Makeshift Barrier
If there’s a crack in the glass of your window, you’re likely concerned about security and further damage, especially in a busy neighborhood. Plywood can be an excellent solution to temporarily repair a window.
To create a plywood barrier, measure the window opening, cut a piece of plywood to fit the dimensions, and secure it with screws, nails, or an adhesive. Although this fix may not enhance your home’s curb appeal, it is a cost-effective temporary solution. Your window will be protected from the elements, and your home will be more secure until you can implement a permanent repair.
4. Shades and Curtains
If you want to address drafty windows without installing anything, consider using shades and curtains. Cellular shades, with their unique honeycomb-shaped cells, can prevent warm air from escaping and cold air, and vice versa, from entering by trapping air between the window and the room.
Layered curtains can also help keep drafts at bay by reducing the amount of cold or hot air entering the room. Additionally, layered curtains make a room feel cozy and inviting while serving as a stylish accessory. With a wide variety of colors and styles available, finding layered curtains that fit your taste is easy and provides an easy way to temporarily repair a window draft.
5. Re-Caulk to Stop Leaks and Prevent Damage
If you’ve noticed the caulk around your windows is wearing thin or has developed long cracks, it’s time for a quick fix. Air seeping through on windy days and the threat of rain entering your home are clear signs that re-caulking is necessary.
Re-caulking is a simple and cost-effective way to avoid water damage from melting snow, rain, or ice, and to fix leaky or drafty windows. However, albeit being a temporary fix, it does require some effort. First, remove the old caulk and inspect the window frame for mold and rot.
Then, apply new layers of caulk. Ensure the caulk dries completely before rehanging curtains, shades, or blinds. This method is especially useful in cold regions, as it helps prevent cool A/C air from escaping your home.
Get a Temporary Window Repair Kit for Multiple Needs
Your cat has clawed through the window screen once again. Fortunately, there are repair kits available that can help you patch the hole quickly, preventing insects and other critters from entering your home during the warmer days.
Some kits are designed specifically for repairing window screen tears or holes, while others can help secure broken glass shards. These window repair kits typically contain the instructions and tools you need to assist you to temporarily repair a window until window repair specialists, like Family Windows & Doors, can provide a more permanent solution.
Family Windows & Doors Can Help When You’re Ready for a Window Replacement
There you have it – 5 quick fixes that can help you get through the hot or cold season. These are a couple of quick and affordable ways to temporarily repair a window.
However, to address the problem completely, you need a long-term solution. Replacing your drafty windows with modern ones is a great investment for your home. New windows are more energy efficient, meaning they will help lower your energy bills and save you money in the long run. They will also make your home look and feel much better.
Family Windows & Doors has decades of experience in window repairs and replacement. If you need help with your window replacement project or don’t know where to start with scheduling repairs and buying replacement windows, contact us today at 864-982-0957.
