Why Window Repair Is Necessary

A pebble thrown by the lawnmowers or a large drink that is set on your glass-topped table are among the many factors that can cause cracks in window glass. A damaged window may let rain, wind bugs and other harmful elements to get into your home.

Although it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible, there are ways to repair it and prevent it from getting worse.

Water Damage

Water that is leaking out of your window frame is an indication that you need to replace it. Moisture can cause rot to the wood of your window frame. It can also reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames without causing damage to them.

Wood rot can affect the inside and outside of your windows. If you have windows made of wood with decaying areas, it might be possible to repair them, if they're not too much damaged. If the rot has reached your mullions and muntins (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes) it could be necessary to rebuild them. This could cost more than a new set of windows.

A failed seal between double-paned window panes is another issue that requires replacement. This can be a result of condensation or debris between the two panes, or it could be an indication that your window's insulation has failed. Modern windows have insulation built-in. This means that they won't have the same issues as older multi-paned windows.

Casings that are ugly, such as those that are loose, cracked or rotten, or even missing, can create various issues. It is not necessary to replace your windows if the casing has become damaged. You may be able sand it and repaint it to enhance its appearance based on the condition and surrounding wood.

If the casing on the outside isn't in good shape and you're looking to replace it, a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint for your exterior might be the best solution to keep moisture from damaging your window. Installing new exterior casing can be a beautiful and practical upgrade to your home.

Chipped or Peeling Paint

Window sills and frames are usually close to the elements, which means they can take a lot abuse from sunlight and precipitation. Moisture is the main cause for peeling paint around windows, particularly when the wood is exposed. Water seeps through the wood, and when it evaporates the pressure beneath the paint film causes the paint to peel. The moisture can be caused by condensation on the interior, or from rain and snow on the exterior. It's important to sand and scrape the surface when you notice the paint begin to chip. Some meticulous painters apply a water repellent preservative to the wood, and then thin boiled oil before painting. This will help slow the penetration of moisture into wood, which will help the new paint to stick better.

If paint begins to peel off the window, it's time for repairing your window. To remove any paint that might stray onto the floor, place a dropcloth or tarp over the area before applying a new coat. Clean any paint that is loose with an utility knife. Be careful not to slash the wood below or cut through the sheathing beneath. Let the area dry completely after scrubbing it thoroughly.

Once the surface is dry, sand it again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface that is ready for paint. If you're working with lead-based paints, be sure to use the appropriate safety equipment. Clean the sanded area and tape off any other surfaces, such as baseboards, to shield them from paint.

Then, prime and paint according to the instructions on the tin you are using. Follow the curing temperature and temperature guidelines on the can of paint as they differ depending on the type. Finally, be sure to paint the exterior surface with a paint that is exterior-grade and the interior with an interior grade.

Window replacement can be costly, but repairing chipped or peeling paint is relatively inexpensive and a good alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair however, it might be worth upgrading them to newer windows that are more energy efficient.

Cracked Glass

A broken window can leave your home vulnerable to wind, rain bugs, and other unwanted creatures. If the crack or tear isn't too serious, you can repair it yourself. It is important to address small cracks right away before they get more severe due to temperature fluctuations or the passage of time.

There are many ways to make cracked glasses almost invisible. However this isn't a project that can be completed by an amateur. Even a tiny chip can cause a weak spot to the glass, which can lead to more breaks and a costly replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a great solution. This covers it from the outside and prevents air or moisture from leaking through, which could damage the frame or seals around the windows.

Put on your safety glasses and gloves prior to taking the broken glass off the frame. You'll need a scraper, utility knife, or chisel to remove any old glazing points that hold the pane into place. Make use of the knife to remove any wood that is bare, and then apply Linseed or a clear sealer.

The glass can be glued back into place using epoxy. This option is the longest-running however it will give your glass a more solid appearance. If you are using epoxy, select the double glazed window repairs-cylinder type that dispenses the resin and hardener in equal proportion. This lets you control exactly how much is applied to the glass which helps ensure a good seal.

If you have double- or triple-pane windows, make certain that the gas fills are intact when you reset the glass. These gases are vital to insulating and keeping heat inside your home in the winter months, and outside during summer. If you take the window off the gasses escape and cause it to decrease its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills using the same method used to repair cracks in other kinds of glass.