9 Things Your Parents Taught You About Window Repair

Why Window Repair Is Necessary

Cracks in windows can be caused by a small pebble by a lawnmower or a large beverage placed on your table with a glass top. A broken window can allow wind, rain, bugs and other undesirable elements to get into your home.

While it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible, there are ways to repair it and prevent it from getting worse.

Water Damage

Water seeping through the window frame is an indication that you need to replace it. The moisture can damage the wood of your window frame and cause the frame to rot. It could also decrease the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames without causing damage to them.

Wood rot is another issue that affects both the inside and exterior of your window. If you have wooden windows with decaying areas, it might be possible to fix them, if they're not too far gone. However when the rot has spread to your muntins or mullions (the parts of your window frame that hold the glass panes) they might need to be rebuilt. This can be more expensive than purchasing a new set.

Another issue that often requires replacement is a faulty seal between your double-paned windows. This could be caused by the condensation or the accumulation of debris between the double-paned windows or it could be a sign that the insulation in your window has failed. Modern windows have 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, Window repair loose or rotten, or even missing, could cause other issues. It's not necessary to replace your windows if the casing is damaged. You might be able to sand it and then repaint it to enhance its appearance based on the condition of the wood surrounding it and its condition.

If the casing on the outside isn't in good shape and you're looking to replace it, a fresh coat of weather-resistant exterior paint might be the best solution to stop moisture from destroying your window repairs. The installation of a new exterior casing could be a stylish and practical improvement to your home.

Paint that has chipped or peeled

Window frames and sills are often close to the elements and suffer from the sun and rain. Peeling paint around windows is primarily caused by moisture, particularly if exposed wood is involved. Water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates the pressure beneath the film of paint causes the paint to peel. Moisture may come from condensation inside, or from snow and rain outside. No matter the source it's essential to scrape and sand the surface and then repaint as soon as the paint starts to chip. Some skilled painters apply a water repellent preservative on the wood, and then thin boiling oil prior to painting. This will help slow the penetration of moisture into the wood, which helps the new paint to hold better.

If paint starts to chip, it's the time for a window repair. To remove any paint that has strayed on the surface, put a drop cloth or tarp over the area before applying a fresh coat. Using a utility knife, carefully remove any loose paint. Be careful not to gouge the wood below or cut the sheathing beneath. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

Once the surface has dried, sand again using a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface to receive primer and create a base ready for paint. If you're working with lead-based paint ensure you're using proper safety equipment. Clean the sanded area and tape off any adjacent surfaces, such as baseboards, to protect them from paint.

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

Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a less expensive alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair, however, it could be worth upgrading them to more modern, more energy efficient windows.

Cracked glass

A broken window can leave your home vulnerable to rain, wind, bugs, and other unpleasant critters. If the crack or tear isn't too serious you can repair it yourself. It is important to address small cracks right away prior to them getting more severe due to temperature fluctuations or Window repair the passage of time.

There are many ways to make broken glasses almost invisible. However this isn't an easy task that is achievable by an amateur. Even a small chip can cause a weak spot to the glass, which could result in more breakage and an expensive replacement. The best solution is to cover the crack with plastic. This covers it from the outside and blocks air or moisture from getting through, which can harm the frame or seals around the windows.

Before you put on the plastic wear gloves and safety eyewear and take the broken piece of glass from its frame. You'll need to use a utility knife, scraper, or chisel to remove any glazing points that pin the pane in position. Utilize the knife to cut away any wood that is not used, then finish it off with Linseed or a clear sealer.

The glass can be glued back into place with epoxy. This is the most time-intensive option, but it will also give your glass a more solid appearance. If you are using epoxy, select the double-cylinder version that disperses the resin and hardener in the same proportion. This allows you to precisely control the amount applied to the glass which ensures a strong seal.

If you have double- or triple-pane windows, be sure that the gas fills are intact when resetting 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 window off, the gases will escape and cause it to reduce its energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills using the same method as for repairing cracks on other kinds of glass.