Why Window Repair Is Necessary

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

There are ways to repair damaged glass and prevent it from spreading.

Water Damage

Water seeping through your window frame is an indication that you need to replace it. Moisture can cause rot to the wooden frame of your window. It can also reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement service can replace your frames with no damage to them.

Wood rot is another problem that affects both the inside and exterior of your window. If your windows made of wood have rotting spots repairs may be possible when the rot isn't advanced. If the rot has reached your muntins and mullions, (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes), you may need to replace the windows. This can be more costly than buying a new set.

Another common issue that requires replacement is a failed seal between the double panes of your windows. This could be due to the condensation or the accumulation of debris between your double-paned windows, or a sign that the insulation inside your window is failing. Modern windows have insulation built-in. They won't be afflicted with the same problems as older windows that have multiple panes.

A cracked, loose or rotting the casing around your window is ugly and could lead to other issues. A damaged casing does not necessarily mean that it's time to change your windows, but. Depending on the condition of your casing as well as the wood surrounding it, you may be able to sand or repaint it to improve its appearance.

If your exterior casing is in poor condition it is possible to apply a new coat of weather-resistant paint to stop water from destroying the window. The installation of a new exterior casing could be a stylish and practical upgrade to your home.

Paint that has chipped or peeled

Frames and window sills are often in close proximity to the elements, so they are subject to a lot of damage from precipitation and sunlight. Moisture is the primary reason for peeling paint around windows, especially if the wood is exposed. Water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure below the film of paint causes the paint to peel. The moisture can be caused by condensation in the interior or from snow and rain outside. It is important to scrape and sand the surface when you notice the paint begin to chip. Some skilled painters apply a water repellent preservative to the wood, and then thin boiling oil prior to painting. This can help to reduce moisture penetration into the wood, which helps the new paint to hold better.

If paint begins to chip off, it's time to repair your window. To catch any paint that might stray on the surface, put a drop cloth or tarp on the surface before applying a fresh coat. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using an utility knife. Be careful not to slash the wood beneath or cut into the sheathing. Let the area 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 substrate that's ready to accept paint. If you're working with lead-based paints, be sure to use the appropriate safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces that are adjacent to the sanded area, such as baseboards. This will protect them from paint.

Then paint, prime and then paint as directed on the specific paint tin you're using. Make sure you follow the temperature and curing guidelines on the paint as they differ by type. Also, make sure to paint the exterior of the surface with a paint that is exterior-grade and the interior with an interior-grade.

Window replacement can be costly However, repairing damaged or peeling paint is relatively affordable and can be a viable alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair, however, it could be worthwhile to upgrade them to newer, more energy efficient windows.

Cracked Glass

A damaged window leaves your home vulnerable to winds rain, insects and wind. You may be tempted to replace the glass, but you could repair it yourself if there isn't too big of a crack or break. You should address small cracks right away, before they become 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 order for a DIY project. Even a tiny chip can cause a weak spot to the glass, which could cause more breaks and an expensive replacement. The best solution is to cover the crack with a piece of plastic. This protects the crack from the outside and stops moisture or air from seeping through, which can damage the frame or seals around windows.

Wear protective glasses and gloves prior to taking the broken glass off the frame. You'll need to use an utility knife, scraper, or chisel to remove any glazing points that hold the glass in place. Utilize the knife to cut away any wood that is not used, then finish it off with the linseed or a clear wood sealer.

Then, you can use epoxy to glue the glass back to its original position. This method is the most time-consuming, but will give your glass a more substantial appearance. Select the double-cylinder dispenser that dispensing resin and hardener equally. This lets you control exactly how much is applied to the glass which ensures a strong seal.

If you have double or triple-pane windows, be sure that the gas fills remain intact when resetting the glass. These gases are essential to insulate your home and ensuring that heat stays inside during winter and out during summer. If you take the window off, the gases will escape and cause it to reduce its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills by using the same method that is used to repair cracks in other types of glass.