Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in window glass could be caused by a pebble thrown from the lawnmower or a large drink placed on your glass-topped table. A window that is damaged lets rain, wind insects, and other undesirable elements to get into your home.
While it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible but there are ways to repair it and prevent it from spreading further.
Water Damage
If water is leaking through your windows, a replacement is usually necessary. Moisture can cause rot in the wooden frame of your window. It can also compromise the efficiency of your window's energy consumption. A reputable window replacement service can replace your frames without damaging them.
Wood rot can affect the outside and inside of your windows. If your windows made of wood have spots of rotting it is possible when the rot isn't advanced. However in the event that the rot has reached your mullions or muntins (the parts of the frame of your window that hold the glass panes) They may have to be rebuilt. This could be more expensive than purchasing a new set.
A failed seal between double-paned window panes is another issue that requires replacement. This could be caused by condensation or debris that has formed between your double-paned windows, or an indication that the insulation in your window has gone out of date. Fortunately, many modern windows have insulation in them. This means that they won't have the same issues that older multi-paned windows.
The ugly casings, like those that are loose, cracked or rotten, as well as missing, could cause various issues. It is not necessary to replace your windows if the casing has become damaged. You might be able to sand it and repaint it to improve its appearance based on the condition of the wood surrounding it and its condition.
If your exterior casing is damaged it is possible to apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant exterior paint to keep moisture from causing damage to the window. The installation of a new exterior casing could be a stylish and practical upgrade to your home.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
Window sills and frames are typically close to the elements, which means they take a lot of abuse from sunlight and precipitation. The peeling of paint around windows is primarily caused by moisture, and is particularly so if exposed wood is involved. Water seeps through the wood, and once it evaporates the pressure beneath the film of paint causes the paint to peel. Moisture may come from condensation in the interior, or snow and rain outside. It's important to sand and scrape the surface as soon as you see the paint begin to chip. Some skilled artists apply a water repellent preservative to the wood that is unfinished and then thinned with boiling oil prior to painting. This helps to slow the penetration of moisture into the wood, allowing the new paint to stay better.
If paint begins to peel off, it's time to repair your window. To remove any paint that might stray, place a dropcloth or tarp on the area before applying a fresh coat. Clean any paint that is loose with an utility knife. Be careful not to slash the wood below or cut through the sheathing underneath. Allow the area to dry completely after cleaning it thoroughly.
After the area has dried, sand it again with a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a base that is ready to receive paint. If you're working with lead-based paints, be sure to use 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 to instructions on the tin that you are using. Make sure to click here adhere to the curing and temperature guidelines on the paint, as these will vary according to the type of paint. Paint the exterior with exterior grade paint and the interior with interior-grade paint.
Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a more affordable alternative to replacing them. If your window frames are beyond repair, however, it could be worthwhile to upgrade them to newer, more energy efficient windows.
Cracked Glass
A broken window can leave your home exposed to the elements of rain, wind bugs, and other unpleasant critters. It's tempting to just replace the glass, but you could repair it yourself if you don't have too large a crack or break. Repair small cracks immediately before they get more severe due to temperature fluctuations or the passage of time.
There are a myriad of methods to make broken glass invisible but this is an extremely high order for a DIY project. Even a tiny chip could create a weak spot in the glass, which can result in more breakage and a costly replacement. The best solution is to cover the crack with a piece of plastic. This covers the crack from the outside, preventing moisture or air from leaking through. This could cause damage to the frames or seals around windows.
Before you put on the plastic, put on your gloves and safety glasses and take the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll need an utility knife, scraper or chisel to get rid of any glazing points that bind the glass in position. You should also use the knife to pry out any wood that's unfinished and then clean and seal the area with the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer.
Then, you can use epoxy to glue the glass back into place. This is the slowest method, but it can also give your glass a more substantial look. Select the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that distributes resin and hardener equally. This allows you to 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 intact. These gases are vital to keep heat inside your home in the winter and outside in summer. If you take the window off, the gases will escape and cause the glass to reduce its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills using the same method used for repairing cracks in other kinds of glass.