Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in windows can be caused by a small pebble from the lawnmower, or a heavy beverage placed on your table with a glass top. A broken window can let rain, wind bugs, and other unwelcome elements to enter your home.
While it is not possible to make a damaged window completely invisible, there are ways to fix it and stop it from becoming worse.
Water Damage
If water is getting into your windows it is likely that a replacement is required. Moisture can cause rot in the wood of the frame of your window. It can also reduce the energy efficiency of your window. A reputable window manufacturer can replace your windows without destroying the structural integrity of your current frames.
Wood rot is another problem that can affect both the interior and exterior of your window. If your windows are made of wood and have spots of rotting repairs may be possible in the event that the rot isn't advanced. However in the event that the rot has reached the mullions or muntins (the parts of your window frame that hold the glass panes) They may have to be rebuilt. This can be more expensive than buying a new set.
A failed seal between double-paned window panes is another common problem that requires replacement. 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 that they won't have the same issues that older multi-paned windows.
Casings that are ugly, such as ones that are loose, cracked or rotten, or even missing, can cause other problems. A damaged casing doesn't mean it's time to replace your windows, though. Depending on the condition of your casing as well as the wood surrounding it you might be able to sand or paint it to improve its appearance.
If your exterior casing is in poor condition, you may only need to apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant exterior paint to keep moisture from causing damage to the window. Alternately, you can put in new exterior casing to give an attractive and functional upgrade to your home.
Paint that has peeled or chipped
Frames and window sills are typically close to the elements, and they can take a lot abuse from sunlight and precipitation. Paint peeling around windows is mostly caused by moisture, particularly when exposed wood is involved. Water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates the pressure beneath the paint film causes the paint to peel. The moisture can be caused by condensation on the interior, or from rain and snow on the exterior. Whatever the cause, it's important to scrape and sand the wood and then repaint when the paint begins to chip. Some skilled painters apply a water-repellent preservative, or thinned boiled linseed oil the bare wood before painting to prevent moisture penetration and allow the paint to hold better.
If paint starts to crack, it's time to consider repairing your window. Before applying a new coat, put a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working on to catch any stray drops of paint. Utilizing a utility knife carefully scrape off any paint that is loose. Be careful not to slash the wood underneath or cut into the sheathing. Let the area 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 base that is ready for paint. If you're working door repairs near me with lead-based paints ensure you're using proper safety equipment. Clean the surface you sanded and tape off any adjacent surfaces, such as baseboards, to protect them from paint.
Then, prime and paint according to the directions on the specific paint tin you're using. Make sure you follow the curing and temperature guidelines for the paint as they will differ by type. Paint the exterior with exterior-grade paint and the interior with interior-grade paint.
Window replacement can be costly However, repairing damaged or peeling paint is inexpensive and a good 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 can leave your home vulnerable to winds rain, insects and wind. You might be tempted to just replace the glass, but you can also fix it yourself if there isn't too big of crack or break. It's recommended to address small cracks as soon they occur, so that they don't get worse due to time or temperature changes.
There are a myriad of methods to make damaged glass invisible however, this is not a good task for a DIY. Even a small chip can cause a crack in the glass, which can lead to more breaks and a costly replacement. The best solution is to cover the crack with a piece of plastic. The plastic covers the crack from the outside, and prevents moisture or air from leaking through. This can damage the frames or seals around windows.
Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to taking the broken glass out of the frame. Use a utility blade, scraper or chisel, to take off the old glazing points that hold the pane in place. Use the knife to remove any bare wood, then finish it off with the linseed or a clear wood sealer.
The glass can be glued back into place using epoxy. This is the slowest option, but it will also give your glass a more substantial appearance. If you are using epoxy, select the double-cylinder model that distributes the resin and hardener in a similar proportion. This lets you precisely control the amount applied to the glass, which helps ensure a good seal.
When resetting double- or triple pane windows, be sure the gas fills are intact. These gases are crucial for insulating your house and ensuring that heat stays inside during winter and out in summer. If you take the window off, the gases escape and cause it to lose its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills using the same procedure used for repairing cracks in other kinds of glass.