Why Window Repair Is Necessary

A pebble that is thrown by the lawnmowers or a large drink set on your glass-topped coffee table are just one of the many things that can cause cracks to glass in windows. A damaged window could let rain, wind, bugs and other undesirable elements to infiltrate your home.

While it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible however, there are ways to repair it and stop it from spreading further.

Water Damage

The sight of water leaking through the window frame is a sign that you should replace it. The moisture can cause rot in the wooden frame of your window. It can also reduce the efficiency of your window's energy use. A reputable window company will replace your windows without destroying the structural integrity of your current frames.

Wood rot is another problem that can affect both the interior and the exterior of your window. If you have windows made of wood with decaying areas, it might be possible to fix them, if they're not terribly damaged. If the rot has reached the mullions and muntins, (the parts of the window frame that support your glass panes), you may need to replace the windows. This can be more expensive than buying a new set.

A deteriorated seal between double-paned windows is another issue that requires replacement. This could be caused by condensation or debris between the double-paned windows or an indication that the insulation inside your window has gone out of date. Many modern windows come with insulation built in. They won't be afflicted with the same problems as older windows that have multiple panes.

Casings that are ugly, such as ones that are damaged, cracked, loose or rotten, as well as missing, could cause other problems. A damaged casing doesn't mean it's time to replace your windows, but. Depending on the condition of your casing as well as the wood around it you may be able to sand and repaint it to enhance its appearance.

If the exterior casing of your home is in poor condition, you may only need to apply a new coat of weather-resistant exterior painting to stop water from destroying the window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casing to give an attractive and functional improvement to your home.

Paint chipped or peeling

Frames and upvc window repairs sills are typically close to the elements, and they can take a lot wear and tear from rain and sunlight. Moisture is the main cause for peeling paint around windows, especially if the wood is exposed. The water seeps into wood and when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the paint film causes it to peel and lose adhesion. The moisture can be caused by condensation in the interior, or from snow and rain outside. No matter the source it is important to clean and sand the surface and then repaint when the paint starts to chip. Some skilled painters apply a water-repellent preservative, or thinned boiled linseed oil the bare wood before painting to slow moisture penetration and allow the paint to hold better.

If paint starts to chip, it's the time for a window repair. Before you apply a new coat, place a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working to catch any loose drops of paint. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using a utility knife. Be careful not gouge the wood underneath or cut into the sheathing. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

After the area has dried, sand again using a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a base that's ready for painting. Use the correct safety equipment when you're using paint based on lead. Tape off any surfaces adjacent to the sanded area like baseboards. This will shield them from paint.

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

Window replacement can be costly Repairing chipped or peeling paint is inexpensive and a good alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are beyond repair, however, it might be worthwhile to upgrade them to newer, more energy efficient windows.

Cracked Glass

A broken window can leave your home exposed to the elements of rain, wind bugs, and other unwanted critters. It's tempting to replace the glass, but you could also fix it yourself if you don't have too big of crack or break. It's recommended to address small cracks as soon they occur, before they get worse due to time or temperature fluctuations.

There are many ways to make broken glasses appear as if they are not there. However this isn't something that can be done by a DIYer. A tiny crack could cause a weakness in the window, which could result in further cracks and a costly replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a viable solution. This covers the crack from the outside, window repair and prevents moisture or air from leaking through. This can damage the frames or seals around windows.

Put on your safety glasses and gloves prior to taking the broken glass off the frame. You'll need a utility knife, scraper or chisel for removing any glazing points that pin the pane in the frame. It is also recommended to employ the knife to cut away any wood that is unfinished and then clean and seal that area with the oil of linseed or a clear wood sealer.

The glass can be glued back into place with epoxy. This option is the most time-consuming, but will give your glass a more solid appearance. Select the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that distributes resin and hardener in a similar way. This allows you to precisely control how much epoxy is applied to the window, which can 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 vital for insulating and keeping heat inside your home in the winter, and outside in summer. If you remove the window, the gases will escape and cause the glass to reduce its energy efficiency. Gas fills can be replaced using the same method as to repair cracks in other types of glass.