10 Quick Tips About Window Repair

Why Window Repair Is Necessary

Cracks in windows can be caused by a pebble thrown by a lawnmower or a large drink placed on the table that has a glass top. A damaged window could let rain, wind bugs and other harmful elements to infiltrate your home.

There are methods to repair a cracked glass and stop it from spreading.


Water Damage

If water is leaking through your windows it is likely that a replacement is necessary. Moisture can cause rot in the wood of the frame of your window. It can also compromise the energy efficiency of your window. A reputable window company can replace your windows without damaging the strength of your existing frames.

Wood rot is another issue that affects both the interior and exterior of your window. If your wood windows have spots of rotting it is possible when the rot isn't advanced. However when the rot has spread to the mullions or muntins (the parts of your window frame that hold the glass panes) They may have to be replaced. This can cost more than a new set windows.

A deteriorated seal between double-paned window panes is a different issue that requires replacement. It could be a result of condensation or debris between the two panes, or it could be an indication that the insulation in your window has been damaged. Fortunately, the majority of modern windows have insulation built-in. This means that they won't have the same issues as older multi-paned windows.

Cracked, loose or rotting casing around your window is not attractive and could cause other problems. A damaged casing does not mean it's time to replace your windows, however. Depending on the condition of your casing and the wood surrounding it you may be able to sand and repaint it to improve its appearance.

If the exterior casing isn't in great 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 casing to provide an attractive and practical improvement to your home.

Paint that has chipped or peeled

Frames and window sills are usually close to the elements, and they are subject to a lot of damage from precipitation and sunlight. Paint peeling around windows is primarily caused by moisture, especially if exposed wood is involved. Water seeps into the wood, and once it evaporates the pressure beneath the film of paint causes the paint to peel. The moisture can be caused by condensation in the interior, or snow and rain outside. No matter the source, it's important to clean and sand the surface and then repaint the area as soon as the paint begins to chip. Some skilled artists apply a water-repellent preservative, or thinned boiled linseed oil the wood prior to painting to prevent moisture penetration and make the new paint hold better.

If paint starts to chip, it's the time to consider repairing your window. Before applying a new coat, put a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working to catch any scattered drops of paint. Clean any paint that is loose with an utility knife. Be careful not to slash the wood underneath or cut through the sheathing. Let the area dry completely after thoroughly cleaning it.

After the area has dried, sand again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface ready to accept paint. Use the correct safety equipment if you're using paint based on lead. Tape off any surfaces close to the sanded surface, such as baseboards. This will shield them from paint.

Then, prime and paint according the instructions on the tin that you are using. Make sure to adhere to the curing and temperature guidelines on the paint can as they will differ depending on the type. Paint the exterior using exterior-grade paint, and the interior surface with interior-grade.

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

Glass that has cracked

A damaged window can make your home vulnerable to rain, wind, bugs, and other unwelcome critters. window repairs tempting to just replace the glass, but you could also fix it yourself if there isn't too large crack or break. It is important to address small cracks immediately prior to them getting more severe due to temperature fluctuations or the passage of time.

There are a myriad of methods to make cracked glass nearly invisible but this is an extremely high task for a DIY. Even a small crack will create a weak point in the window, which could eventually lead to further breaks and a more expensive replacement. The best solution is to cover the crack with a piece of plastic. This covers it from the outside and blocks moisture or air from seeping through, which can damage the frame or seals around the windows.

Before putting on the plastic, put on your gloves and safety eyewear and then remove the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll need to use an utility knife, scraper or chisel for removing any old glazing points that bind the pane in position. You should also use the knife to pry out any wood that is bare and then clean and seal that area with the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer.

You can then make use of epoxy to stick the glass back in place. This is the longest-lasting method, but it can also give your glass a more solid appearance. If you are using epoxy, select the double-cylinder version that disperses the resin and hardener in a similar proportion. This allows you to determine exactly how much applied to the glass which ensures 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 keep the heat inside your home during the winter months, and outside in the summer. If you remove the window, the gases will escape and cause it to decrease its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills by using the same procedure used to repair cracks in other types of glass.

Edit
Pub: 05 Feb 2024 19:19 UTC
Views: 68