A Productive Rant About Window Repair

Why Window Repair Is Necessary

A pebble thrown by the lawnmowers or a heavy drink set on a glass-topped coffee table are among the many factors that can cause cracks in glass windows. A broken window allows rain, wind insects, and other unwelcome elements to enter your house.

While it is not possible to make a cracked window completely invisible but there are ways to repair it and stop it from spreading further.

Water Damage

Water seeping through the 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 can also reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window company can replace your windows, without compromising the strength of your existing frames.

Wood rot can impact the exterior and interior of your windows. If your windows made of wood have spots of rotting repairs may be possible when the rot isn't advanced. If the rot has reached the mullions and muntins, (the parts of the window frame that hold your glass panes) it could be necessary to rebuild the windows. This may cost more than a new set of windows.

Another issue that often requires replacement is a failed seal between your double-paned windows. This could be the result of condensation or debris between the two panes, or it could be a sign that your window's insulation has failed. Modern windows have insulation built in. They won't be afflicted with the same issues as older windows with multiple panes.

Unattractive casings, such as those that are damaged, cracked, loose or rotten, or even missing, can cause other issues. A damaged casing alone doesn't mean it's time to replace your windows, but. You may be able sand it and then repaint it to enhance its appearance, depending on the condition and surrounding wood.

If the casing on the outside isn't in good condition and you're looking to replace it, a fresh coat of weather-resistant exterior paint might be the best solution to prevent moisture from damaging your window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casings to offer an attractive and functional upgrade to your home.

Paint that is peeling or chipped

Window sills and frames are usually close to the elements and suffer a lot from rain and sunlight. The peeling of paint around windows is mostly caused by moisture, particularly if exposed wood is involved. Water seeps through the wood, and once it evaporates, the pressure below the film of paint causes the paint to peel. Moisture can come from condensation on the interior Window Repair or rain and snow on the exterior. No matter the source it is important to scrape and sand the surface and then repaint as soon as the paint begins to chip. Some skilled painters apply a water repellent preservative to the wood, and then thin boiled oil before painting. This will help slow the penetration of moisture into the wood, allowing the new paint to hold better.

If paint starts to chip, it's time for a window repair. To remove any paint that might stray on the surface, put a drop cloth or tarp on the area before applying a new coat. Utilizing a utility knife carefully scrape off any paint that is loose. Be careful not to cut the wood below or cut the underlying 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 surface that is ready for paint. If you're working with lead-based paint, be sure to use the appropriate safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces that are near to the sanded region, such as baseboards. This will shield them from paint.

Then paint and prime according to the instructions on the specific tin of paint you're using. Make sure you follow the curing and temperature guidelines for the paint as they differ according to the type of paint. Make sure you paint the exterior of the surface with an exterior-grade paint and the interior with an interior grade.

Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a more affordable alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames are unable to be repaired, it could be worth upgrading to newer energy efficient windows.

Cracked Glass

A damaged window can make your home vulnerable to wind, rain, bugs, and other unpleasant critters. You might be tempted to replace the glass, but you could repair it yourself if there isn't too severe of a crack or break. You should address small cracks immediately before they get worse due to temperature changes or the passage of time.

While there are many methods that claim to make cracked glass nearly invisible however, this is not a good task for a DIY. Even a tiny chip can cause a weak spot to the glass, which could result in more breakage and an expensive replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a viable solution. The plastic covers the crack from the outside, which stops air or moisture from getting through. This could cause damage to the frames or seals around windows.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to taking the broken glass out of the frame. Utilize a utility knife, scraper or chisel, to remove the old glazing points that keep the glass in place. Make use of the knife to remove any wood that is bare, and then apply linseed or a clear wood sealer.

The glass can be glued back into place using epoxy. This is the longest-lasting alternative, but it will also give your glass a more robust look. If you're using epoxy, opt for the double glazed window repairs-cylinder version that disperses the resin and hardener in the same proportion. This lets you precisely control the amount applied to the glass, which will ensure a solid seal.

When resetting double glazed window repairs- or triple pane windows, be sure the gas fills are intact. These gases are essential for insulating your house and ensuring that heat stays inside the winter months and out during summer. If you take the glass off the gases escape through the crack and cause the window to lose energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills using the same method used to repair cracks in other types of glass.