Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in window glass can be caused by a small pebble by a lawnmower or a large drink placed on your table with a glass top. A window that is damaged allows wind, rain, insects and other unwanted elements to get into your home.
While it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible, there are ways to fix it and stop it from spreading further.
Water Damage
If water is seeping through your windows it is likely that a replacement is necessary. The moisture could damage the wood in the frame of your window and cause the frame to rot. It can also compromise the energy efficiency of your window. A reputable window company can replace your windows without destroying the structural integrity of your current frames.
Wood rot is another issue that can affect both the interior and the exterior of your window. If you have wood windows with spots of rot, it might be possible to repair them if they're not too far gone. However in window repairs that the rot has spread to your mullions or muntins (the parts of the frame of your window that hold the glass panes) They may have to be rebuilt. This could be more expensive than buying a new set.
Another common issue that requires replacement is a faulty seal between your double-paned windows. This could be due to condensation or debris between the double-paned windows or a sign that the insulation in your window has failed. Many modern windows come with insulation built in. They won't face the same issues as older windows that have multiple panes.
The ugly casings, like ones that are damaged, cracked, loose or rotten, as well as missing, could cause various issues. A damaged casing does not necessarily mean that it's time to change your windows, however. You may be able sand it and then repaint it to make it look better based on the condition of the wood surrounding it and its condition.
If your exterior casing is in bad shape, you may only need to apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint to stop moisture from damaging the window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casing to give an attractive and practical improvement to your home.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
Window sills and frames are typically close to the elements, which means they can take a lot wear and tear from rain and sunlight. The peeling of paint around windows is caused by moisture, and is particularly so if 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 caused by condensation inside, or snow and rain outside. No matter the source, it's important to scrape and sand the wood and then repaint the area as soon as the paint starts to chip. Some meticulous painters apply a water repellent preservative to the bare wood and thinned boiling oil prior to painting. This will help slow the penetration of moisture into the wood, which helps the new paint to stick better.
If the paint begins to peel off, it's time to repair your window. To remove any paint that has strayed on the surface, put a drop cloth or tarp over the area before applying a new coat. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using an utility knife. Be careful not gouge the wood beneath or cut into the sheathing. Let the area dry completely after cleaning it thoroughly.
Once the area is dry and dry, you can sand it with a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a base that's ready to accept paint. If you're working with lead-based paints, be sure to use the appropriate safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces that are adjacent to the sanded area, such as baseboards. This will shield them from paint.
Then, prime and paint according to the directions on the specific paint tin you're using. Follow the temperature and curing instructions on the can of paint as they differ depending on the type. Paint the exterior using exterior-grade paint and the interior with interior-grade.
Window replacements can be expensive, but repairing chipped or peeling paint is relatively affordable and can be a viable alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair, it could be worth upgrading them to more modern windows that are more energy efficient.
Cracked Glass
A broken window can leave your home exposed to the elements of rain, wind, bugs, and other unwanted creatures. If the crack or break isn't severe enough, you can repair it yourself. It's best to address small cracks as soon as they happen, before they become worse as time passes or temperature fluctuations.
There are many ways to make cracked glasses almost invisible. However, this is not a project that can be done by an amateur. Even a small chip can create a weak spot in the glass, which could lead to more breaks and an expensive replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a good solution. This protects the crack from the outside and stops air or moisture from leaking through, which could damage the frame or seals around windows.
Before you put on the plastic wear gloves and safety eyewear and then remove the broken piece of glass from its frame. Use a utility blade scraper, chisel, or scraper to cut off the old glazing points that secure the pane. You should also use the knife to pry out any wood that's empty, then clean and seal the area with linseed oil or a clear wood sealer.
The glass can be glued back into its original position with epoxy. This is the longest-lasting option, but it will also give your glass a more substantial appearance. Choose the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that dispensing resin as well as hardener equally. This allows you to precisely control the amount applied to the glass, which helps ensure a good seal.
When resetting double- or triple pane windows, be sure that the gas fills are intact. These gases are essential to insulate your home and ensuring that heat is kept in during the winter and out in summer. If you remove the window the gasses escape and cause it to reduce its energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills in the same way as to repair cracks on other kinds of glass.