How To Resolve Issues With Window Repair
How To Resolve Issues With Window Repair
Blog Article
Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in window glass could be caused by a small pebble from the lawnmower or a large beverage placed on the table that has a glass top. A damaged window may allow wind, rain, bugs and other undesirable elements to enter your home.
There are methods to repair broken glass and stop it from spreading.
Water Damage
Water that is leaking out of the window frame is a sign that you should replace it. The moisture can damage the wood inside your window frame and cause the frame to rot. It could also affect the efficiency of your window's energy use. A reputable window company will replace your windows without destroying the strength of your existing frames.
Wood rot is another issue that can affect both the interior and exterior of your window. If you have wood windows with rotting areas, it may be possible to repair them, if they're not too much damaged. If the rot has gotten to the mullions and muntins, (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes), you may need to replace the windows. This could cost more than a new set of windows.
Another issue that is often required for replacement is a failed seal between the double panes of your windows. It could be a result of debris or condensation between the two panes, or it could be an indication that the insulation in your window has been damaged. Modern windows have insulation built-in. This means that they won't have the same issues that older multi-paned windows.
Unattractive casings, such as ones that are loose, cracked or rotten, or even missing, could cause other problems. A damaged casing alone doesn't mean it's time to replace your windows, however. You may be able to sand it and repaint it to enhance its appearance in accordance with the condition of the wood surrounding it and its condition.
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 all you need to keep moisture from damaging your window. You can also install new exterior casing to give an attractive and practical improvement to your home.
Paint that has chipped or peeled
Window sills and frames are usually close to the elements and suffer a lot from rain and sunlight. Peeling paint around windows is primarily caused by moisture, especially if exposed wood is involved. The water seeps in to the wood and, when it evaporates, the pressure in the film of paint causes it to peel and lose adhesion. The moisture can be caused by condensation in the interior, or rain and snow outside. No matter the source it's essential to scrape and sand the wood and then repaint the area as soon as the paint starts to chip. Some skilled painters add a water-resistant preservative or thinned boiled linseed oil the bare wood before painting to slow moisture penetration and make the new paint hold better.
If paint begins to peel off the window, it's time for repairing your window. Before applying a new coat, lay a drop cloth or tarp over the area you're working to catch any stray drops of paint. Clean any paint that is loose with a utility knife. Be careful not to cut the wood beneath or cut through the sheathing. Allow the area to dry completely after scrubbing 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 base that's ready for painting. Use the proper safety equipment if you're using lead-based paint. Tape off any surfaces that are near to the sanded region like baseboards. This will protect them from paint.
Then, prime and paint according to the instructions on the tin you are using. Follow the temperature and curing instructions on the paint's can as they differ according to the type of paint you're using. Paint the exterior with exterior grade paint and the interior with interior-grade paint.
Repairing peeling or chipped painted frames is a cheaper alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames are unable to be repaired, it may be worth upgrading to more energy efficient windows.
Cracked glass
A broken window can leave your home vulnerable to wind, rain, bugs, and other unwelcome creatures. If the crack or tear is not too severe you can fix it yourself. Repair small cracks immediately before they get more severe due to temperature fluctuations or the passage of time.
There are many ways to make broken glasses appear as if they are not there. But this isn't a project that is achievable by a DIYer. Even a small crack will create a weak spot in the window, which could eventually lead to more breaks and a larger replacement. A good solution is to cover the crack glass repairs with a piece of plastic. This protects the crack from the outside and prevents air or moisture from getting through, which can harm the frame or seals around windows.
Before you put on the plastic, put on your gloves and safety eyewear and then remove the broken piece of glass from its frame. Utilize a utility knife, scraper or chisel, to take off the old glazing points that hold the pane in place. Also, you should employ the knife to cut out any wood that's bare, then clean and seal that area with linseed oil or a clear wood sealer.
You can then make use of epoxy to stick the glass back to its original position. This is the most time-intensive option, but it will also give your glass a more solid appearance. If you're using epoxy, opt for the double-cylinder model that distributes the resin and hardener in the same proportion. This allows you to determine exactly how much applied to the glass which ensures a strong seal.
When resetting double- or triple pane windows, be sure the gas fills are not damaged. These gases are essential to insulating and keeping the heat inside your home during the winter, and outside during summer. If you remove the window the gasses will escape and cause it to reduce its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills using the same method that is used to repair cracks in other types of glass.