Why Window Repair Is Necessary

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

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

Water Damage

Water that is leaking out of your window frame is a sign that you should replace it. The moisture can cause rot in the wooden frame of your window. It also can reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames without causing damage to them.

Wood rot is another issue that affects both the interior and the exterior of your window. If your windows are made of wood and have spots of rotting, a repair may be possible when the rot isn't advanced. If the rot has gotten to your mullions and muntins (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes), you may need to replace them. This can cost more than a new set windows.

A deteriorated seal between the double-paned window panes is another common problem that requires replacement. This could be caused by condensation or debris that has formed between the double-paned windows or a sign that the insulation inside your window is failing. Fortunately, a lot of modern windows have the insulation built into them. They won't be afflicted with the same issues as older windows with multiple panes.

Casings that are ugly, Window Repair such as ones that are loose, cracked or rotten, as well as missing, can create other problems. It's not necessary to replace your windows if the casing has become damaged. You might be able to sand it and repaint it to enhance its appearance in accordance with the condition of the wood and the surrounding.

If the exterior casing isn't in good shape and you're looking to replace it, a fresh coat of weather-resistant exterior paint could be the best solution to keep moisture from damaging your window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casings to offer an attractive and functional improvement to your home.

Chipped or Peeling Paint

Window frames and sills are often close to the elements and are prone to suffering from sunlight and rain. Moisture is the main reason for peeling paint around windows, particularly when the wood is exposed. The water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure in the paint film causes it to lose adhesion and peel. The moisture may be caused by condensation inside, or snow and rain outside. It is important to sand and scrape the surface immediately you notice the paint begin to chip. Some meticulous painters apply a water-repellent preservative, or thinned boiled linseed oil to the bare wood before painting to reduce the penetration of moisture and allow the paint to hold better.

If paint starts to chip, it's time for a window repair. To remove any paint that may stray, place a dropcloth or tarp on the surface before applying a new coat. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using a utility knife. Be careful not to slash the wood underneath or cut through the sheathing. Let the area dry completely after cleaning it thoroughly.

When the area is dry then sand it once more using a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface ready to accept paint. If you're working with lead-based paints make sure you use the appropriate safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces that are close to the sanded surface like baseboards. This will protect them from paint.

Then paint and Window Repair prime as directed on the specific tin of paint you're using. Make sure you follow the temperature and curing guidelines for the paint, as these will vary according to the type of paint. Finally, be sure to paint the exterior of the surface with a paint that is exterior-grade and the interior with an interior grade.

Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a cheaper alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair it could be worthwhile to upgrade them to newer windows that are more energy efficient.

Cracked Glass

A damaged window leaves your home open to wind rain, insects and wind. You might be tempted to replace the glass, but you could also fix it yourself if you don't have too large crack or break. It is best to fix small cracks as soon they occur, so that they don't get worse with time or temperature changes.

There are a variety of ways to make cracked glasses virtually invisible. However, this is not an easy task that can be completed by an amateur. A tiny crack could create a weak spot in the glass, which could eventually lead to further breaks and a costly replacement. A great solution is to cover the crack with a piece of plastic. This covers the crack from the outside, and prevents moisture or air from leaking through. This can damage the frames or seals around windows.

Before you put on the plastic and putting on your protective eyewear and gloves, and remove the broken pane of glass from its frame. Utilize a utility knife scraper, chisel, or scraper to remove the old glazing points that secure the pane. Utilize the knife to cut away any wood that is not used, then finish it off with the linseed or a clear wood sealer.

The glass can be put back in place by using epoxy. This option is the most time-consuming, but will give your glass a more solid appearance. Select the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that dispensing resin as well as hardener equally. This allows you to precisely control the amount of epoxy is applied to the window, which helps ensure a solid seal.

When resetting double- or triple pane windows, make sure that the gas fills are intact. These gases are crucial to keep warm inside your home in the winter and outside in the summer. If you remove the window, the gases will escape and cause the glass to decrease its energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills using the same method as to repair cracks in other types of glass.