Why Window Repair Is Necessary

A pebble thrown by a lawnmowers or a heavy drink set on a glass-topped table are among the many factors that can cause cracks in glass windows. A broken window allows rain, wind, insects and other unwanted elements to enter your house.

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

Water Damage

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

Wood rot can affect both the inside and outside of your windows. If you have wood windows with rotting areas, it may be possible to fix them, if they're not too much damaged. However when the rot has reached your mullions or muntins (the parts of your window frame that hold the glass panes), they may need to be replaced. This may cost more than a new set of windows.

A deteriorated seal between the double-paned window panes is a different issue that requires replacement. This could be the result of condensation or debris between the two panes, or it could be an indication that the insulation in your window has failed. Fortunately, a lot of modern windows have the insulation in them. They won't have the same problems as older windows that have multiple panes.

A cracked, loose or rotting casings around your windows are ugly and could lead to other issues. A damaged casing does not necessarily mean that it's time to change your windows, though. Depending on the condition of your casing as well as the surrounding wood you may be able to sand or paint it to enhance its appearance.

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

Paint that is peeling or chipped

Window frames and sills are usually close to the elements, and they are subject to a lot of damage from precipitation and sunlight. The peeling of paint around windows is caused by moisture, and is particularly so when exposed wood is involved. Water seeps into the wood, and when it evaporates the pressure beneath the paint film causes the paint to peel. The moisture may be from condensation in the interior or from rain and snow on the exterior. No matter the source it's essential to scrape and sand the surface and then repaint as soon as the paint begins to chip. Some meticulous painters add a water-repellent preservative or thinned boiled linseed oil to the wood prior to painting to prevent moisture penetration and make the new paint hold better.

When paint begins to chip, it's time to repair your window. Before applying a new coat, put a drop cloth or tarp over the area you're working on to catch any scattered drops of paint. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using a utility blade. Be careful not to gouge the wood below or cut through the underlying sheathing. Let the area dry completely after thoroughly cleaning it.

Once the surface is dry, sand the area again using a fine sanding pad. This will make the surface ready for primer and create a base ready for paint. If you're working with lead-based paint ensure you're using proper safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces that are near to the sanded region, such as baseboards. This will shield them from paint.

Then paint and prime as directed on the specific tin of paint you're using. Make sure to adhere to the temperature and curing guidelines on the paint as they differ according to the type of paint. Make sure you paint the exterior of the surface with an exterior-grade paint and the interior emergency with an interior-grade.

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

Cracked Glass

A broken window can leave your home vulnerable to winds and rain, as well as bugs. If the break or crack isn't too serious you can repair it yourself. You should address small cracks immediately prior to them getting worse due to temperature changes or the passage of time.

While there are many methods that claim to make cracked glass nearly invisible, emergency this is a tall task for a DIY. Even a tiny chip can create a weak spot in the glass, which can result in more breakage and costly replacement. The best solution is to cover the crack with plastic. This will cover the crack from the outside, and prevents air or moisture from getting through. This can damage the frames or seals around windows.

Before putting on the plastic, put on your protective eyewear and gloves, and remove the broken pane of glass from its frame. Use a utility blade scraper, chisel, or scraper to cut off the old glazing points that keep the glass in place. Also, you should employ the knife to cut away any wood that is bare, then clean and seal the area with Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer.

The glass can be glued back into place with epoxy. This is the most time-intensive alternative, but it will also give your glass a more solid appearance. If you're using epoxy, opt for the double-cylinder type that dispenses the resin and hardener in a similar proportion. This lets you precisely control the amount of epoxy is poured into the window, which will help ensure a solid seal.

When you are resetting double or triple pane windows, be sure the gas fills are not damaged. These gases are crucial for insulating and keeping heat inside your home in the winter months, and outside during summer. If you remove the window the gasses will escape and cause the glass to decrease its energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills using the same method as to repair cracks on other kinds of glass.