Weeping Windows

Improperly glazed windows that don't allow water to flow properly cause leaks. While window glazing is necessary to hold a single pane of glass in place, too much glaze can be a pain and cause a maze of problems.

The amount of glazing compound used should never exceed the width of the window’s muntin; the piece of wood that crisscrosses the window.

If the putty around a window is loose or cracking, that means it’s time to reglaze.

• First, using a putty knife, dig out the old glazing and scrape it away.
  
• Roll out the glazing putty into strips between your hands to soften it.
  
• Press the glazing putty all the way around the frame of the glass.
  
• Finally, smooth out the glazing compound with a putty knife and remove the excess.
  

It pays to reglaze. Keeping a tight seal around your windows keeps the outside air out, inside air in, and your home more energy efficient.