Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in windows can be caused by a small pebble by the lawnmowers, or a heavy beverage placed on your glass-topped table. A window that is damaged allows wind, rain, insects and other unwanted elements to enter your home.
There are methods to repair broken glass and stop it from spreading.
Water Damage
If water is seeping through your windows, a replacement is usually required. Moisture can cause rot in the wood of your window frame. It can also compromise the efficiency of your window's energy consumption. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames without damaging them.
Wood rot is a different issue that affects both the inside and the exterior of your window. If your windows made of wood have spots of rotting it is possible when the rot isn't advanced. However, if the rot has reached your muntins or mullions (the parts of the window frame that support the glass panes), they may need to be rebuilt. This may cost more than a new set windows.
Another common issue that requires replacement is a failed seal between your double-paned windows. This could be due to 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debris that has formed between your double-paned windows, or an indication that the insulation in your window has gone out of date. Modern windows have insulation built in. This means they can't experience the same issues as older, multi-paned windows.
Casings that are ugly, such as those that are damaged, cracked, loose, rotten, or missing, can create other issues. It is not necessary to replace your windows if the casing is damaged. Depending on the condition of your casing as well as the wood around it, you may be able to sand or paint it to improve its appearance.
If your exterior casing is damaged It is possible to apply a new coat of weather-resistant exterior paint to stop moisture from causing damage to the window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casings to offer an attractive and practical improvement to your home.
Paint chipped or peeling
Window sills and frames are typically close to the elements, so they take a lot of abuse from sunlight and precipitation. Moisture is the main reason for paint peeling around windows, particularly when the wood is exposed. The water seeps in to the wood and, when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the film causes it to lose adhesion and peel. Moisture can come from condensation on the interior or rain and snow on the exterior. It is important to sand and scrape the surface as soon as you see the paint begin to chip. Some skilled painters apply a water-repellent preservative, or thinned boiled linseed oil the wood before painting to reduce the penetration of moisture and help the new paint hold better.
When paint begins to chip, it's the time to repair your window. Before you apply a new coat, place a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working to catch any loose drops of paint. With a utility knife, carefully scrape off any paint that is loose. Be careful not to slash the wood underneath or cut into the sheathing. Allow the area to dry completely after scrubbing it thoroughly.
Once the area is dry then sand it once more using a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a substrate that is ready for paint. If you're working with lead-based paint ensure you're using proper safety equipment. Clean the sanded surface and tape off any adjacent surfaces like baseboards to protect them from paint.
Then paint and prime according to the instructions on the specific tin of paint you're using. Make sure to adhere to the temperature and curing guidelines for the paint as they differ according to the type of paint. Paint the exterior using exterior-grade paint, and the interior surface with interior-grade.
Repairing peeling or chipped painted frames is a less expensive alternative to replacing them. If your window frames cannot be repaired, it could be worth upgrading to more energy efficient windows.
Cracked Glass
A broken window could leave your home exposed to the elements of rain, wind bugs, and other unwelcome critters. If the break or crack isn't severe enough you can repair it yourself. It is important to address small cracks as soon as you notice them before they get worse due to temperature changes or the passage of time.
There are many ways to make broken glasses appear as if they are not there. But, this is not a project that can be completed by a DIYer. A tiny crack could create a weak spot in the glass, which could result in further cracks and a costly replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a great solution. This covers it from the outside and prevents moisture or air from seeping through, which can harm the frame or seals around windows.
Before you put on the plastic, put on your protective eyewear and gloves, and then remove the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll need a scraper, utility knife, or chisel to remove any old glazing points that bind the pane in place. Utilize the knife to cut away any wood that is bare, and then finish it off with Linseed or a clear sealer.
Then, you can make use of epoxy to stick the glass back in place. This option is the longest-running, but will give your glass a more robust appearance. When using epoxy, choose the double-cylinder type that dispenses the resin and hardener in equal proportion. This lets you precisely control the amount of epoxy is poured onto the window, which can help to ensure a strong seal.
If you have double- or triple-pane windows, make certain that the gas fills are intact when resetting the glass. These gases are crucial to insulating and keeping heat inside your home in the winter, and outside in summer. If you remove the window, the gases will escape and cause it to reduce its energy efficiency. Gas fills can be replaced using the same method as to repair cracks in other kinds of glass.