Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in window glass can be caused by a small pebble from the lawnmower or a large beverage placed on the table that has a glass top. A broken window allows rain, wind insects, and other undesirable elements to enter your house.
There are methods to repair damaged glass and prevent it from spreading.
Water Damage
If water is leaking through your windows replacing them is typically required. Moisture can cause rot in the wood of your window frame. It can also reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames with no damage to them.
Wood rot is a different issue that can affect both the interior and exterior of your window. If your windows are made of wood and have spots of rotting it is possible in the event that the rot isn't advanced. If the rot has gotten to the mullions and muntins, (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes), you may need to rebuild them. This could be more expensive than buying a brand new set.
Another issue that is often required for replacement is a faulty seal between the double panes of your windows. It could be a result of condensation or debris between the two panes, or it could be a sign that your window's insulation has failed. A lot of modern windows have insulation built-in. This means that they won't have the same issues as older, multi-paned windows.
Loose, cracked or rotting casing around your window is ugly and could lead to other problems. A damaged casing doesn't mean it's time to replace your windows, however. You may be able to sand it and repaint it to enhance its appearance, depending on the condition and surrounding wood.
If the exterior casing of your home is damaged It is possible to apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant exterior paint to keep water from destroying the window. Alternately, you can put in new exterior casings to offer an attractive and functional upgrade to your home.
Paint that has chipped or peeled
Frames and window sills are often in close proximity to the elements, so they take a lot of abuse from sunlight and precipitation. Peeling paint around windows is primarily caused by moisture, particularly when exposed wood is involved. Water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure below the paint film causes the paint to peel. The moisture can be caused by condensation in the interior, or rain and snow outside. Whatever the cause, it's important to scrape and sand the wood and then repaint as soon as the paint starts to chip. Some meticulous painters apply a water repellent preservative to the bare wood and thinned boiled oil before painting. This will help slow the penetration of moisture into wood, which helps the new paint to stay better.
If paint begins to peel off the window, it's time for repairing your window. Before applying a new coat, put a drop cloth or tarp over the area you're working to catch any stray drops of paint. Utilizing a utility knife carefully scrape off any paint that is loose. Be careful not to cut the wood beneath or cut into the sheathing. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Once the area is dry, sand it again with a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface that is ready for paint. If you're working with lead-based paint make sure you use the proper safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces that are adjacent to the sanded area, such as baseboards. This will shield them from paint.
You can then prime and paint according the instructions on the tin you are using. Follow the curing temperature and temperature guidelines on the paint's can, as they will vary according to the type of paint you're using. Paint the exterior using exterior-grade paint and the interior with interior-grade.
Window replacements can be expensive However, repairing damaged or peeling paint is relatively inexpensive and is an effective alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are unable to be repaired, it could be worth upgrading to newer energy efficient windows.
Cracked glass
A broken window could leave your home vulnerable to wind, rain, bugs, and other unwanted creatures. If the break or crack isn't severe enough you can repair it yourself. It's best to address small cracks as soon as they occur, before they get worse due to time or temperature changes.
There are many ways to make broken glasses almost invisible. But, this is not a project that is achievable by DIYers. A small crack can create a weak point in the window, which can eventually lead to further breaks and a costly replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a viable solution. This will cover the crack from the outside, and prevents moisture or air from leaking through. window repair can damage the frames or seals around windows.
Before you put on the plastic wear protective eyewear and gloves, and remove the broken pane of glass from its frame. Use a utility blade, scraper or chisel, to remove the old glazing points that secure the pane. Make use of the knife to remove any bare wood, then finish it off with Linseed or a clear sealer.
The glass can be put back in the position by using epoxy. This is the most time consuming however it will give your glass a more solid appearance. If you're using epoxy, opt for the double-cylinder model that distributes the resin and hardener in a similar proportion. This allows you to precisely control the amount of epoxy that is poured onto the window, which will help to ensure a strong seal.
When resetting double- or triple pane windows, make sure the gas fills are not damaged. These gases are essential to insulating and keeping heat inside your home in the winter, and outside in the summer. If you take the glass off the gases escape through the crack and cause the window to lose energy efficiency. Gas fills can be replaced by using the same procedure to repair cracks on other types of glass.