Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in windows can be caused by a pebble thrown from the lawnmower, or a heavy beverage placed on your glass-topped table. A broken window lets rain, wind insects, and other unwelcome elements to enter your house.
Although it is impossible to make a damaged window completely invisible, there are ways to fix it and stop it from spreading further.
Water Damage
Water that is leaking out of the window frame is a sign that you should replace it. The moisture can damage the wood of the window frame and cause the frame to rot. It also can reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window company can replace your windows, without compromising the structural integrity of your current frames.
Wood rot is a different issue that can affect both the interior and the exterior of your window. If you have wood windows with decaying areas, it might be possible to fix them if they are not terribly damaged. If the rot has reached your mullions and muntins (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes) it could be necessary to rebuild them. This can be more expensive than buying a new set.
Another common issue that requires replacement is a damaged seal between your double-paned windows. window repairs near me could be due to condensation or debris between your double-paned windows, or a sign that the insulation inside your window is failing. Fortunately, a lot of modern windows have insulation built-in. This means that they won't have the same issues as older multi-paned windows.
A cracked, loose, rotting, or missing casings around your windows are ugly and could lead to other issues. A damaged casing doesn't mean it's time to replace your windows, though. Depending on the condition of your casing and the surrounding wood you may be able to sand or repaint it to improve its appearance.
If the exterior casing isn't in great condition, a new layer of weather-resistant exterior paint might be the best solution to keep moisture from damaging your window. The installation of a new exterior casing could be a stylish and practical improvement to your home.
Paint that has peeled or chipped
Frames and window sills are typically close to the elements, so they can take a lot abuse from sunlight and precipitation. Peeling paint around windows is primarily caused by moisture, especially if exposed wood is involved. The water seeps in to the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure under the film causes it to lose adhesion and peel. The moisture can be caused by condensation in the interior, or from rain and snow on the exterior. No matter the source it is important to clean and sand the surface and then repaint as soon as the paint begins to chip. Some skilled artists apply a water repellent preservative to the wood, and then thin boiled oil before painting. This can help to reduce the penetration of moisture into wood, allowing the new paint to hold better.
When paint begins to chip, it's time to repair your window. Before you apply a new coat, lay a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working on to catch any loose drops of paint. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using a utility blade. Be careful not to slash the wood underneath or cut through the sheathing. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Once the area is dry, sand it again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a base that's ready for painting. If you're working with lead-based paint, be sure to 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.
Then, prime and paint according the instructions on the tin you are using. Follow the curing and temperature instructions on the paint's can, as they will vary depending on the type of paint. Paint the exterior with exterior-grade paint and the interior with interior-grade.
Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a cheaper alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames cannot be repaired, it could be worth upgrading to more energy efficient windows.
Cracked Glass
A damaged window can make your home exposed to the elements of rain, wind bugs, and other unwelcome creatures. It's tempting to replace the glass, but you can repair it yourself if it's not too large crack or break. It is important to address small cracks as soon as you notice them prior to them getting more severe due to temperature fluctuations or time.
While there are numerous methods to make broken glass invisible however, this is not a good order for a DIY project. A tiny crack could create a weak spot in the glass, which could eventually lead to further breaks and a larger replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a great solution. This covers the crack from the outside, and prevents air or moisture from passing through. This could damage the frames or seals around windows.
Before you put on the plastic wear gloves and safety glasses and take the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll require a scraper, utility knife, or chisel to remove any glazing points that bind the pane in position. Make use of the knife to remove any wood that is bare, and then seal it with the linseed or a clear wood sealer.
You can then make use of epoxy to stick the glass back to its original position. This option is the most time-consuming but it will give your glass a more robust appearance. Choose the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that distributes resin and hardener equally. This lets you precisely control the amount applied to the glass which will ensure a solid seal.
If you have double or triple-pane windows, be sure that the gas fills remain intact when resetting the glass. These gases are crucial to insulate your home and ensuring that heat is kept in during winter and out during summer. If you take the glass off the gases escape through the crack, causing the window to lose energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills with the same method used for repairing cracks in other kinds of glass.