Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in windows can be caused by a small pebble by a lawnmower or a large drink placed on your glass-topped table. A damaged window allows rain, wind, insects and other unwanted elements to get into your home.
Although it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible however, there are ways to fix it and prevent it from spreading further.
Water Damage
If water is getting into your windows it is likely that a replacement is required. The moisture can cause damage to the wood inside the frame of your window and cause the frame to rot. It can also reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement service can replace your frames without damaging them.
Wood rot is another issue that affects both the inside and the exterior of your window. If your wood windows have rotting spots, a repair may be possible when the rot isn't advanced. However in the event 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 need to be replaced. This can cost more than a new set windows.
A deteriorated seal between double-paned windows is another common problem that requires replacement. It could be a result of debris or condensation between the two panes, or it could be an indication that your window's insulation has failed. Fortunately, the majority of modern windows have the insulation built into them. This means that they won't have the same issues as older multi-paned windows.
Casings that are ugly, such as ones that are cracked, loose or rotten, or even missing, can cause various issues. It is not necessary to replace your windows if the casing is damaged. Depending on the condition of your casing as well as the wood surrounding it you might be able to sand it and repaint it to enhance its appearance.
If your exterior casing is in bad shape it is possible to apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant exterior paint to stop moisture from damaging the window. You can also install new exterior casing to provide an attractive and practical improvement to your home.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
Window frames and sills are typically close to the elements, and they take a lot of wear and tear from rain and sunlight. Moisture is the main reason for paint peeling around windows, particularly when the wood is exposed. The water seeps in to the wood and, when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the film causes it to peel and lose adhesion. Moisture can come from condensation on the interior or rain and snow on the exterior. No matter the source it's essential to clean and sand the surface and then repaint when the paint starts to chip. Some skilled painters apply a water repellent preserver to the wood that is unfinished and then thinned with boiling oil prior to painting. This can help to reduce moisture penetration into the wood, which will help the new paint to stay better.
If paint starts to crack, it's time for a window repair. Before applying a new coat, place a drop cloth or tarp over the area you're working to catch any stray drops of paint. Clean any paint that is loose with an utility knife. Be double glazing repair Slough not to slash the wood beneath or cut through the sheathing. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Once the area is dry, sand the area again using a fine sanding pad. This will make the surface ready for primer and create a surface ready to accept paint. If you're working with lead-based paint, be sure to use the proper safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces close to the sanded surface like baseboards. This will shield them from paint.
You can then prime and paint according to the instructions on the tin you are using. Be sure to follow the curing and temperature guidelines for the paint as they differ by type. Paint the exterior with exterior-grade paint and the interior with interior-grade paint.
Window replacements can be expensive Repairing chipped or peeling paint is relatively affordable and can be a viable alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are unable to be repaired, it may be worth upgrading to newer energy efficient windows.
Cracked Glass
A damaged window leaves your home vulnerable to wind, rain and bugs. If the crack or break is not too severe you can fix it yourself. It is important to address small cracks as soon as you notice them, before they become worse due to temperature changes or time.
There are a variety of ways to make cracked glasses almost invisible. However this isn't an easy task that is achievable by an amateur. Even a tiny chip can create a weak spot in the glass, which can lead to more breaks and costly replacement. A good solution is to cover the crack with plastic. This protects it from the outside and stops air or moisture from getting through, which can damage the frame or seals around the windows.
Before you put on the plastic and putting on your gloves and safety glasses and take the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll require an utility knife, scraper or chisel for removing any old glazing points that hold the pane into place. Also, you should use the knife to pry away any wood that is bare and then clean and seal that area with the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer.
You can then apply epoxy to glue the glass back to its original position. This is the most time-intensive method, but it can also give your glass a more solid look. When using epoxy, choose the double-cylinder version that disperses the resin and hardener in equal proportion. This allows you to precisely control the amount applied to the glass which will ensure a solid seal.
If you have double or triple-pane windows, make certain that the gas fills remain intact when you reset the glass. These gases are vital to insulating and keeping heat inside your home in the winter and outside during summer. If you take the glass off these gases escape through the crack, causing the window to lose efficiency. Gas fills can be replaced in the same way as to repair cracks in other types of glass.