Why Window Repair Is Necessary
A pebble thrown by the lawnmower or a heavy drink that is set on your glass-topped table are some of the many things that can cause cracks in window glass. A broken window lets rain, wind insects, and other undesirable elements to get into your home.
While it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible however, there are ways to repair it and prevent it from spreading further.
Water Damage
If water is leaking through your windows it is likely that a replacement is required. The moisture can damage the wood of the window frame and cause rot. It also can reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement service can replace your frames without damaging them.
Wood rot can affect both the outside and inside of your windows. If your windows are made of wood and have rotting spots, a repair may be possible in the event that the rot isn't advanced. However when the rot has spread to your muntins or mullions (the parts of your window frame that hold the glass panes), they may need to be replaced. This can be more costly than purchasing a new set.
Another issue that often requires replacement is a failed seal between double-paned windows. This can be a result of condensation or debris between the two panes, or it could indicate that your window's insulation has been damaged. Modern windows have insulation built-in. This means they don't face the same issues as older, multi-paned windows.
Unattractive casings, such as those that are loose, cracked or rotten, as well as missing, can cause other issues. It is not necessary to replace your windows if your casing is damaged. Depending on the condition of your casing and the wood around it, you may be able to sand and repaint it to enhance its appearance.
If the casing on the outside isn't in good condition, a new layer of weather-resistant exterior paint might be the best solution to stop moisture from destroying your window. Installing new exterior casing can be a stylish and practical upgrade to your home.
Paint that has chipped or peeled
Window sills and frames are often close to the elements and suffer a lot from sunlight and rain. Paint peeling around windows is caused by moisture, and is particularly so if exposed wood is involved. The water seeps into wood and, when it evaporates, the pressure under the paint film causes it to peel and lose adhesion. The moisture may be from condensation on the interior or rain and snow on the outside. It is important to scrape and sand the surface immediately you notice the paint begin to chip. Some skilled painters apply a water-repellent preservative, or thinned boiled linseed oil the wood prior to painting to reduce the penetration of moisture and allow the paint to hold better.
If paint begins to chip off and cracks appear, it's time to fix your window. To capture any paint that has strayed onto the floor, place a dropcloth or tarp on the surface before applying a new coat. Clean any paint that is loose with a utility blade. Be careful not to slash the wood beneath or cut through the sheathing. Let the area dry completely after scrubbing it thoroughly.
Once the surface is dry, sand it again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a substrate that's ready to accept paint. If you're working with lead-based paints ensure you're using the proper safety equipment. Clean the surface you sanded and tape off any other surfaces, such as baseboards, to protect them from paint.
Then, prime and paint according to the instructions on the tin that you are using. Follow the temperature and curing instructions on the paint's can, as they will vary according to the type of paint you're using. Also, make sure to paint the exterior surface with a paint that is exterior-grade and the interior with an interior-grade.
Window replacement can be costly Repairing chipped or peeling paint is inexpensive and a good alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are unable to be repaired, it may be worth upgrading to newer energy efficient windows.
Glass that has cracked
A broken window could leave your home vulnerable to rain, wind, bugs, and other unwanted critters. You might be tempted to replace the glass, but you can also repair it yourself if it's not too severe of a crack or break. It is important to address small cracks right away prior to them getting more severe due to temperature fluctuations or the passage of time.
There are many ways to make damaged glasses virtually invisible. But, this is not an easy task that can be done by DIYers. A tiny crack could create a weak spot in the glass, which could eventually lead to further breaks and a more expensive replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a good solution. This will cover the crack from the outside, and prevents air or moisture from getting through. window repair near me could cause damage to the frames or seals around windows.
Before putting on the plastic, put on your gloves and safety eyewear and then remove the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll need an utility knife, scraper or chisel for removing any glazing points that hold the glass in position. Utilize the knife to cut away any bare wood, then apply the linseed or a clear wood sealer.
The glass can be put back in its original position by using epoxy. This option is the longest-running however it will give your glass a more robust appearance. If you are using epoxy, select the double-cylinder version that disperses the resin and hardener in the same proportion. This lets you control exactly how much is applied to the glass, which will ensure a solid seal.
When you are resetting double or triple pane windows, be sure the gas fills are not damaged. These gases are vital for insulating and keeping the heat inside your home during the winter, and outside in summer. If you remove the glass these gases will escape through the crack and cause the window to lose its energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills using the same method as to repair cracks in other types of glass.