Why Window Repair Is Necessary
A pebble thrown by a lawnmowers or a large drink set on a glass-topped table are some of the many things that can cause cracks to glass in windows. A damaged window may let rain, wind bugs and other harmful elements to infiltrate your home.
There are many ways to fix a cracked glass and stop it from spreading.
Water Damage
If water is leaking through your windows replacing them is typically required. Moisture can cause rot in the wooden frame of your window. It can also compromise the energy efficiency of your window. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames with no damage to them.
Wood rot can affect the exterior and interior of your windows. If your windows are made of wood and have spots of rotting it is possible in the event that the rot isn't advanced. If the rot has reached your muntins and mullions, (the parts of the window frame that hold your glass panes), you may need to rebuild them. This could be more expensive than purchasing a new set.
A failed seal between double-paned windows is a different issue that requires replacement. It could be a result of debris or condensation between the two panes, or it could indicate that the insulation in your window has been damaged. Many modern windows come with insulation built in. They won't be afflicted with the same issues as older windows with multiple panes.
A cracked, loose, rotting, or missing casing around your window is unattractive and can lead to other issues. A damaged casing doesn't necessarily mean that it's time to change your windows, though. You may be able to sand it and repaint the casing to improve its appearance based on the condition and surrounding wood.
If the casing on the outside isn't in great condition and you're looking to replace it, a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint for your exterior might be the best solution to prevent moisture from damaging your window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casing to give an attractive and functional improvement to your home.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
Window frames and sills are usually close to the elements, so they are subject to a lot of wear and tear from rain and sunlight. Moisture is the primary reason for paint peeling around windows, especially if the wood is exposed. The water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the paint film causes it to peel and lose adhesion. The moisture can be caused by condensation on the interior or from rain and snow on the outside. It is important to scrape and sand the surface when you notice the paint start to chip. Some skilled artists add a water-resistant preservative or thinned boiled linseed oil the wood before painting to prevent moisture penetration and allow the paint to hold better.
When paint begins to chip, it's time to consider repairing your window. Before applying a new coat, place a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working on to catch any loose drops of paint. Utilizing a utility knife carefully scrape away any paint. Be careful not to cut the wood below or cut into the sheathing underneath. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Once the area is dry, sand the area again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface that's ready for painting. If you're working with lead-based paints make sure you use proper safety equipment. Clean the surface you sanded and tape off any adjacent surfaces like baseboards to protect them from paint.
Then paint and prime according to the directions on the specific tin of paint you're using. Make sure you follow the temperature and curing guidelines on the paint can, as these will vary according to 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 less expensive alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames can't be repaired, it might be worth upgrading to newer energy efficient windows.
Cracked Glass
A broken window can leave your home vulnerable to wind and rain, as well as bugs. If the crack or break isn't too serious you can repair it yourself. It's recommended to address small cracks as soon as they happen, before they get worse with time or temperature changes.
There are many ways to make broken glasses almost invisible. However, this is not a project that can be done by a DIYer. A small crack can create a weak point in the window, which could result in further cracks and a more expensive replacement. A good solution is to cover the crack with a piece of plastic. This will cover the crack from the outside, which stops moisture or air from leaking through. This could damage the frames or seals around windows.
Before putting on the plastic wear gloves and safety eyewear and then remove the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll require a utility knife, scraper or chisel to get rid of any glazing points that bind the pane into the frame. Use the knife to remove any wood that is bare, and then apply Linseed or a clear sealer.
The glass can be glued back into the position by using epoxy. This is the longest-lasting alternative, but it will also give your glass a more substantial look. If you're using epoxy, opt for the double-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 you are resetting double or triple pane windows, make sure the gas fills are in good condition. These gases are important to insulate your home and ensuring that heat stays inside the winter months and out in the summer. If you take the glass off these gases escape through the crack and cause the window to lose efficiency. more info Gas fills can be replaced in the same way as to repair cracks on other types of glass.