Why Window Repair Is Necessary
A pebble that is thrown by the lawnmowers or a heavy drink set on your glass-topped coffee table are some of the many things that can cause cracks in glass windows. A window that is damaged lets rain, wind, insects and other unwanted elements to get into your home.
Although it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible, there are ways to repair it and stop it from getting worse.
Water Damage
Water seeping through your window frame is an indication that you need to replace it. The moisture can cause rot in the wood of the frame of your window. It also can reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window company will replace your windows, without compromising the integrity of your existing frames.
Wood rot is a different issue that affects both the inside and exterior of your window. If your wood windows have rotting spots, a repair may be possible when the rot isn't advanced. If the rot has reached your muntins and mullions, (the parts of the window frame that hold your glass panes) You may have to rebuild them. This could be more expensive than buying a brand new set.
Another common issue that requires replacement is a faulty seal between the double panes of your windows. It could be a result of debris or condensation between the two panes, or it could be a sign that the insulation in your window has failed. Modern windows have insulation built in. This means they don't face the same issues as older, multi-paned windows.
Cracked, loose or rotting casings around your windows are unattractive and can lead to other problems. It is not necessary to replace your windows if your casing is damaged. Depending on the condition of your casing as well as the surrounding wood you might be able to sand and repaint it to improve its appearance.
If the casing on the outside isn't in good shape, a new layer of weather-resistant paint for your exterior might be all you need to prevent moisture from damaging your window. The installation of new exterior casings can be a stylish and practical upgrade to your home.
Paint that has peeled or chipped
Window frames and sills are often close to the elements and are prone to suffering from sunlight and rain. Peeling paint around windows is mostly caused by moisture, particularly if exposed wood is involved. The water seeps into the wood and, when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the film causes it to peel and lose adhesion. The moisture can be caused by condensation inside, or rain and snow outside. Whatever the cause it is important to scrape and sand the wood and then repaint when the paint begins to chip. Some skilled artists apply a water repellent preserver to the bare wood and thinned boiled oil before painting. This will help slow moisture penetration into the wood, which will help the new paint to stay better.
When paint begins to chip, it's time for a window repair. To catch any paint that might stray, place a dropcloth or tarp on the surface before applying a new coat. Using a utility knife, carefully remove any loose paint. Be careful not gouge the wood beneath or cut through the sheathing. Allow the area to dry completely after thoroughly cleaning it.
After the area has dried and dry, you can sand it with a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a substrate ready to accept paint. If you're working with lead-based paint, be sure to use the appropriate safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces adjacent to the sanded area, such as baseboards. This will protect them from paint.
Then, prime and paint according to the instructions on the specific tin of paint you're using. Make sure to adhere to the temperature and curing guidelines for the paint, as these will vary depending on the type. Paint the exterior with exterior-grade paint and the interior with interior-grade.
Window replacements can be expensive, but repairing chipped or peeling paint is affordable and can be a viable alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair however, it could be worth upgrading them to newer windows that are more energy efficient.
Cracked glass
A damaged window leaves your home open to wind rain, insects and wind. If the crack or tear isn't too serious you can fix it yourself. You should address small cracks right away before they get more severe due to temperature fluctuations or time.
There are a variety of ways to make damaged glasses virtually invisible. However this isn't a project that can be done by DIYers. Even a small crack will create a weak point in the window, which could eventually lead to more breaks and a larger replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a viable solution. This covers the crack from the outside, which stops moisture or air from leaking through. This can damage the frames or seals around windows.
Put on your safety glasses and gloves prior to removing the broken glass from the frame. Use a utility blade scraper, chisel or chisel to cut off the old glazing points that secure the pane. Also, you should employ the knife to cut out any wood that is empty and then clean and seal the area with linseed oil or a clear wood sealer.
Then, you can use epoxy to glue the glass back into place. This is the longest-running but it will give your glass a more robust appearance. If you're using epoxy, opt for the double-cylinder type that dispenses the resin and hardener in a similar proportion. This allows you to control exactly how much is applied to the glass, which ensures a strong seal.
If window repairs near me have double- or triple-pane windows, be sure that the gas fills remain intact when you reset the glass. These gases are crucial for insulating your house and ensuring that heat stays inside the winter months and out during summer. If you take the glass off these gases escape through the crack, causing the window to lose its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills by using the same method used for repairing cracks in other kinds of glass.