Window Repairs For Hard-To-Reach Areas

A broken window is a serious problem that requires repair immediately before the weather becomes too cold. This is especially true when the mullions and muntins that hold the glass in place are brittle or show indications of rot.

Applying a thin layer (or nail polish) of clear shellac, over the crack is a simple and inexpensive fix. This will repair the crack, reduces stress on it and stops air from getting through.

1. Tape

If you're in a rush and can't wait to get an expert window repair completed it is possible to solve the issue by placing a few tape strips over the crack. This will stabilize the crack, reduce stress on the glass and block cold air from entering the window frame.

Another benefit to this kind of repair is that it's affordable and easy to do. If you are in this type of situation frequently, it might be worth investing in some good-quality masking tape. This tape will last longer and withstand more abuse than the typical tape you find in your home.

In addition to masking tape, you can also use clear nail polish to provide an interim solution for damaged windows. It's not as aesthetically pleasing as tape, but it can provide the necessary help in keeping the crack in place while you wait for a better solution. You'll need to clean the crack thoroughly before applying nail polish. A second coat could be needed after the first one has dried to completely fill the crack.

Another option is to wrap the entire frame of your window in self-adhering flashing tape ($12, The Home Depot). This product creates an completely waterproof barrier that will keep out rain, snow and wind. It also helps to stop cold air from getting through your windows. Just be sure to clean the surface and apply a bit of linseed oil prior you apply the tape, which will help it stick well.

Duct tape can also be used to wrap extension cords into a "cubby" that will prevent them from rattling against the interior of your windows. Wrap it in a secure manner and assign a distinct color to each type of cord. This will allow you to identify them easily prior to using them. This will save you from having to untangle your extension cords in the winter months.

2. Glass Repair Film

A damaged window can be a major inconvenience and costly. It could be a security risk, as it is a point of entry for criminals. It also reduces the amount of natural light and airflow that can enter the building. It is important to find an effective and quick way to repair your window, especially if it will stop further damage to the frame or the materials surrounding it.

In some instances cracks on a window glass is too severe to fix with clear tape and will require professional glaziers to replace the glass pane. This is particularly true if the window is double glazed window repair-paned, as a bad crack will compromise the gas layer between the two panes and lower the windows repairs energy efficiency. In many cases, double glaze window repair a cracked glass window can be fixed with a simple film.

This heavy-duty window repair film is designed to be placed on broken and cracked glass to temporarily secure it temporarily. It is commonly used in schools, hospitals and commercial premises to make the glass secure and weatherproof after breakage until the glass is replaced. The film is optically transparent which means that it does not hinder the view through the window. It can be easily applied to laminated and flat toughened glass. It is twice as sturdy as standard safety emergency window repair films and can be used to create a safer and more aesthetically pleasing environment.

The film that is easy to apply is similar to sticky back plastic. It can be cut into a desired size using an instrument or razor blade and pressed onto the glass surface. The film is then encased by a layer called release liner that has to be removed before being smoothed with a cloth. This will make the window weatherproof and secure yet allow sunlight to enter.

It's a cheaper option than hiring a glazier to do the job. It will also aid in preventing further damage to the frame or glass, or even the surrounds. It is also easier to apply than traditional board ups and helps reduce OHS concerns with dangerous glass shards.

3. Epoxy

Epoxy is a versatile and increasingly popular product for repairing wooden surfaces. More Boston Building Resources members are using it to strengthen porch columns, repair windowsills that are rotting, door jambs, and other wood components for exterior use that are expensive or difficult to remove or replace. It starts as a caulk-like substance, and can be shaped like cookie dough, molded into rough shapes, carved, and sanded just like wood. It also hardens when dried and, unlike some exterior wood fillers, won't break or crack as it cures.

Epoxies, also known as epoxy resins or epoxy binder are a wide class of glues that require two parts before they can be cured. They are composed of chemical chains called monomers which are bonded with heat and pressure. They can be tinted to match a certain color, or they may be transparent and can be used on all kinds of glass such as plain or tempered glass, laminated, and mirrors.

Work in a well-ventilated area and lay clean cardboard to apply epoxy. The epoxy will take a few moments to set, so be prepared with your tools and in a good mood. If you are able, break broken glass pieces to reduce the chance of breaking when the epoxy sets.

If you're using liquid epoxy, follow the instructions on the bottle. If the epoxy drys out too quickly, you can heat it using an iron or hair dryer. Be careful not to overheat otherwise it will begin to harden and lose its ability for shaping. The heat can also alter the strength of the bond.

After the epoxy has been formed and rounded after which it has to be sanded with 80-grit paper. This will prepare it for painting. Be sure to wear a mask while you are sanding. You should also sand the wood surrounding it as well to roughen the surface so the paint sticks.

Epoxy can be used to repair small chips or cracks on windows. However, it is not the best option to repair structural joints. Instead, you should use the wood dutchman method either by scarf or splice. If you are working on an older structure, repairs to epoxy might be irreparable and it's recommended to replace the damaged piece.

4. Glass Replacement

Window repairs are important, but windows in hard-to reach areas such as upper floors or dormers need extra attention to ensure that they are safe and functional. Whether they have broken panes or are difficult to open and close, these windows could be energy hogs and security risks.

Fortunately, window repair specialists are able to tackle these repairs as well. The windows are first cleaned to remove any shards which may still be in the frame or in the mechanism. The sash (or moveable part of the window) that allows the window to shut and open is removed from the frame. The glass pane is then removed. The professional will likely need to wear gloves and eye protection. The professional will also need to get rid of any glazing compound or points, which are similar to putty fasteners that hold the window panes together. They will then seal the broken glass with tape to protect themselves against the sharp edges.

Once the glass is removed, the window is prepped for double glaze window repair a new glass replacement. A utility knife can be used to scrape any remaining glazing compound that remains on the inside of the frame. A wire brush can also help remove any paint, dirt or other residues that may get stuck in small crevices within the window frame. This will make the sash more secure and will fit better within the frame when it is replaced.

This repair for windows is easier for single-paned windows than triple-paned or double glaze window repair to double glazed windows - here, paned windows. The professionals will have to replace the spacers and gas and the panes to restore the window's original appearance. It is worth noting that this repair is still cheaper than replacing the entire window.

It is important to be aware that damaged window frames and sills could cause wood damage, rot and water leakage, which can be expensive for homeowners to fix. If these problems are ignored, they can cause damage to other parts of the house and create more problems. It is better to invest in low-cost window repairs and identify these issues in the early stages.