Why Window Repair Is Necessary
A pebble thrown by the lawnmowers or a large drink that is set on your glass-topped table are one of the many things that can cause cracks in window glass. window repair damaged window lets rain, wind insects, and other unwelcome elements to enter your house.
Although it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible however, there are ways to fix it and prevent it from spreading further.
Water Damage
If water is seeping through your windows replacing them is typically required. The moisture can cause rot in the wood of the frame of your window. It can also reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window company can replace your windows, without compromising the structural integrity of your current frames.
Wood rot is another issue that affects both the inside and exterior of your window. If your windows made of wood have spots of rotting it is possible in the event that the rot isn't advanced. If the rot has spread to your muntins and mullions, (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes), you may need to rebuild the windows. This can cost more than a new set windows.
A damaged seal between the double-paned window panes is another issue that requires replacement. This could be caused by condensation or debris that has formed between the double-paned windows or an indication that the insulation of your window is failing. Many modern windows come with insulation built in. This means they can't experience the same issues as older multi-paned windows.
The ugly casings, like ones that are loose, cracked or rotten, as well as missing, can create other problems. It is not necessary to replace your windows if the casing is damaged. You might be able to sand it and then repaint it to make it look better, depending on the condition of the wood and the surrounding.
If your exterior casing is in bad shape It is possible to apply a new coat of weather-resistant paint to stop moisture from causing damage to the window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casing to provide an attractive and practical improvement to your home.
Paint that has peeled or chipped
Frames and window sills are typically close to the elements, which means they are subject to a lot of wear and tear from rain and sunlight. Paint peeling 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 beneath the paint film causes it to lose adhesion and peel. Moisture may come from condensation in the interior, or rain and snow outside. Whatever the cause, it's important to scrape and sand the surface and then repaint the area as soon as the paint starts to chip. Some skilled painters add a water-repellent preservative or thinned boiled Linseed oil to the wood before painting to reduce the penetration of moisture and allow the paint to hold better.
If paint starts to crack, it's time to repair your window. Before you apply a new coat, lay a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working to catch any loose drops of paint. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using an utility knife. Be careful not to slash the wood beneath or cut through the sheathing. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Once the area is dry then sand it once more using a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface to receive primer and create a base that is ready to receive paint. If you're working with lead-based paint make sure you use the proper safety equipment. Clean the surface you sanded and tape off any surfaces adjacent to it like baseboards to protect them from paint.
You can then prime and paint according to the instructions on the tin you are using. Follow the curing and temperature instructions on the paint's can as they differ depending on the type of paint. Paint the exterior using exterior-grade paint, and the interior surface with interior-grade paint.
Repairing peeling or chipped painted frames is a less expensive alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames are unable to be repaired, it may be worth upgrading to more energy efficient windows.
Glass that has cracked
A broken window leaves your home open to wind, rain and bugs. If the crack or break is not too severe, you can repair it yourself. It is best to fix small cracks as soon as they happen, before they get worse due to time or temperature changes.
While there are many methods that claim to make broken glass invisible, this is a tall order for a DIY project. Even a small crack will cause a weakness in the window, which can result in further cracks and a more expensive replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a great solution. This will cover the crack from the outside, preventing moisture or air from leaking through. This could cause damage to the frames or seals around windows.
Before putting on the plastic, put on your gloves and safety eyewear and take the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll need an utility knife, scraper, or chisel to remove any old glazing points that pin the pane into place. Make use of the knife to remove any bare wood, then apply the linseed or a clear wood sealer.
Then, you can apply epoxy to glue the glass back into place. This is the longest-running, but will give your glass a more solid appearance. If you are using epoxy, select the double-cylinder type that dispenses the resin and hardener in a similar proportion. This allows you to precisely control the amount applied to the glass, which will ensure a solid seal.
When you are resetting double or triple pane windows, be sure the gas fills are not damaged. These gases are important for insulating your house and ensuring that heat stays inside the winter months and out in the summer. If you remove the window the gasses will escape and cause it to decrease its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills with the same method used to repair cracks in other kinds of glass.