Why Window Repair Is Necessary

Cracks in windows can be caused by a pebble thrown by a lawnmower, or a heavy beverage placed on your glass-topped table. A damaged window may allow wind, rain bugs, and other unwelcome elements to get into your home.

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

Water Damage

Water that is leaking out of your window frame is an indication that you need to replace it. Moisture can cause rot to the wood of your window repairs frame. It could also decrease the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window company will replace your windows, without compromising the strength of your existing frames.

Wood rot can affect the exterior and interior of your windows. If you have windows made of wood with decaying areas, it might be possible to fix them if they are not terribly damaged. If the rot has reached your mullions and muntins (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes) You may have to rebuild the windows. This can be more costly than purchasing a new set.

Another issue that is often required for replacement is a failed seal between the double panes of your windows. This can be a result of condensation or debris between the two panes, or it could indicate that your window's insulation has been damaged. Many modern windows come with insulation built-in. This means they don't face the same issues that older multi-paned windows.

Unattractive casings, such as ones that are loose, cracked or rotten, as well as missing, can create other issues. It's not necessary to replace your windows if the casing is damaged. You may be able sand it and repaint it to improve its appearance, depending on the condition and surrounding wood.

If the exterior casing of your home is damaged, you may only need to apply a new coat of weather-resistant exterior paint to keep water from destroying the window. The installation of a new exterior casing could be a beautiful and practical improvement to your home.

Chipped or Peeling Paint

Window sills and frames are often close to the elements and are prone to suffering from sunlight and rain. Moisture is the main reason for the peeling of paint around windows, especially if the wood is exposed. The water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure under the film causes it to loose 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 as soon as the paint begins to chip. Some skilled artists add a water-repellent preservative or thinned boiled linseed oil the wood prior to painting to slow moisture penetration and help the new paint hold better.

When paint begins to chip, it's time to repair your window. Before you apply a new coat, put a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working to catch any loose drops of paint. Using a utility knife, carefully scrape off any paint that is loose. Be careful not to cut the wood below or cut into the sheathing underneath. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

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

Then, prime and paint according the instructions on the tin that you are using. Follow the curing temperature and temperature guidelines on the paint's can as they differ according to the type of paint you're using. Paint the exterior with exterior grade paint, and the interior surface with interior-grade paint.

Repairing damaged or peeling painted frames is a cheaper alternative to replacing frames. If your window repairs frames can't be repaired, it might be worth upgrading to newer energy efficient windows.

Cracked Glass

A broken window can leave your home open to wind and rain, as well as bugs. You might be tempted to just replace the glass, but you could also fix it yourself if it's not too large crack or break. Repair small cracks immediately before they get more severe due to temperature fluctuations or the passage of time.

While there are many methods that claim to make cracked glass nearly invisible but this is an extremely high order for a DIY project. Even a small crack will create a weak spot in the glass, which could eventually lead to more breaks and a more expensive replacement. A great solution is to cover the crack with plastic. It covers the crack from the outside and blocks air or moisture from leaking through, which can damage the frame or seals around the windows.

Put on your safety glasses and gloves before removing the broken glass from the frame. Utilize a utility knife, scraper or chisel, to remove the old glazing points that hold the pane in place. You should also use the knife to pry out any wood that's bare, then clean and seal the area with the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer.

The glass can be glued back into the position by using epoxy. This method is the longest-running however it will give your glass a more robust appearance. Choose the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that dispensing resin as well as hardener equally. This allows you to precisely control the amount of epoxy that is poured into the window, which helps ensure a good seal.

When resetting double- or triple pane windows, make sure the gas fills are in good condition. These gases are essential to insulate your home and ensuring that heat is kept in the winter months and out during summer. If you remove the window the gasses will escape and cause it to reduce its energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills using the same method as to repair cracks on other types of glass.