Why Window Repair Is Necessary

Cracks in windows can be caused by a pebble that was thrown by a lawnmower or a large drink placed on your glass-topped table. A damaged window allows wind, rain, insects and other unwanted elements to get into your home.

Although it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible but there are ways to fix it and stop it from becoming worse.

Water Damage

Water seeping through your window frame is a sign that you should replace it. The moisture could damage the wood of your window frame and cause rot. It could also decrease the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window company can replace your windows without damaging the structural integrity of your current frames.

Wood rot is another issue that affects both the inside and the exterior of your window. If you have wooden windows with rotting areas, it may be possible to repair them if they are not terribly damaged. If the rot has reached the mullions and muntins, (the parts of the window frame that hold your glass panes), you may need to replace them. This may cost more than a new set windows.

Another issue that often requires replacement is a failed seal between double glazing Wokingham-paned windows. This could be caused by condensation or debris between your double-paned windows, or window Repairs Sittingbourne a sign that the insulation inside your window has gone out of date. Fortunately, many modern windows have the insulation in them. They won't have the same issues as older windows that have multiple panes.

A cracked, loose, rotting, or missing the casing around your window is not attractive and could cause other issues. It's not necessary to replace your windows if the casing is damaged. You may be able sand it and then repaint it to improve its appearance, depending on the condition and surrounding wood.

If the exterior casing of your home is damaged it is possible to apply a new coat of weather-resistant paint to stop water from destroying the window. You can also install new exterior casing to give an attractive and practical improvement to your home.

Paint that has peeled or chipped

Frames and window sills are often in close proximity 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, and is particularly so if exposed wood is involved. The water seeps in to the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the film causes it to lose adhesion and peel. The moisture can be caused by condensation on the interior or from rain and snow on the exterior. Whatever the cause, it's important to clean and sand the surface and then repaint when the paint begins to chip. Some skilled artists apply a water repellent preserver to the bare wood and thinned boiling oil prior to painting. This helps to slow the penetration of moisture into wood, which will help the new paint to stick better.

If paint starts to chip, it's time to repair your window. To catch any paint that has strayed onto the floor, window repairs Sittingbourne place a dropcloth or tarp on the surface before applying a fresh coat. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using a utility knife. Be careful not to cut the wood underneath or cut into the sheathing. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

After the area is dry, sand it again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a substrate ready to accept paint. If you're working with lead-based paint, be sure to use the proper safety equipment. Clean the sanded area and tape off any adjacent surfaces like baseboards to protect them from paint.

Then, prime and paint according to instructions on the tin you are using. Follow the curing and temperature instructions on the can of paint, as they will vary depending on the type of paint. Paint the exterior using exterior-grade paint and the interior with interior-grade.

Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a more affordable alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames are beyond repair, it could be worth upgrading them to more modern windows that are more energy efficient.

Cracked Glass

A broken window leaves your home vulnerable to winds rain, insects and wind. If the crack or break isn't severe enough you can fix it yourself. You should address small cracks as soon as you notice them before they get more severe due to temperature fluctuations or time.

There are a myriad of methods to make damaged glass invisible however, this is not a good order for a DIY project. A tiny crack could create a weak spot in the window repairs Sittingbourne, which could result in further cracks and a more expensive replacement. A great solution is to cover the crack with plastic. The plastic covers the crack from the outside, which stops moisture or air from leaking through. This could damage the frames or seals around windows.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to taking the broken glass off the frame. Use a utility blade, scraper or chisel, to take off the old glazing points that secure the pane. Make use of the knife to remove any wood that is not used, then finish it off with linseed or a clear wood sealer.

The glass can be glued back into place by using epoxy. This method is the most time-consuming however it will give your glass a more robust appearance. If you're using epoxy, opt for the double glazing repairs Wokingham-cylinder type that dispenses the resin and hardener in a similar proportion. This allows you to determine exactly how much applied to the glass which will ensure a solid seal.

When resetting double- or triple pane windows, be sure the gas fills are intact. These gases are essential to insulate your home and keeping heat in during the winter and out during summer. If you remove the glass the gases will escape through the crack, causing the window to lose energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills using the same method as for repairing cracks on other types of glass.