Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in window glass could be caused by a pebble that was thrown from the lawnmower or a large beverage placed on your glass-topped table. A broken window can let rain, wind bugs and other harmful elements to get into your home.
Although it is impossible to make a window that has been damaged completely invisible but there are ways to repair it and stop it from spreading further.
Water Damage
If water is seeping through your windows it is likely that a replacement is required. The moisture can cause damage to the wood of your window frame and cause the frame to rot. It can also compromise the efficiency of your window's energy use. A reputable window replacement service can replace your frames with no damage to them.
Wood rot is another problem that affects both the inside and the exterior of your window. If your windows are made of wood and have rotting spots repairs may be possible when the rot isn't advanced. However when the rot has reached the mullions or muntins (the parts of the window frame that support the glass panes) they might need to be replaced. This can cost more than a new set of windows.
Another common issue that requires replacement is a failed seal between the double panes of your windows. This can be a result of debris or condensation between the two panes or it could indicate that the insulation in your window has failed. Fortunately, the majority of modern windows have the insulation in them. This means they don't face the same issues as older multi-paned windows.
Casings that are ugly, such as those that are damaged, cracked, loose or rotten, or even missing, could cause other issues. A damaged casing does not mean it's time to replace your windows, though. Depending on the condition of your casing and the wood around it you may be able to sand or repaint it to improve its appearance.
If the casing on the outside isn't in good condition, a new layer of weather-resistant exterior paint could be the best solution to prevent moisture from damaging your window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casing to provide an attractive and functional upgrade to your home.
Paint that has chipped or peeled
Window frames and sills are usually close to the elements and are prone to suffering from the sun and rain. Moisture is the primary reason for paint peeling around windows, particularly if the wood is exposed. Water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the paint film causes the paint to peel. The moisture may be from condensation on the interior, or from rain and snow on the exterior. It is important to scrape and sand the surface immediately you notice the paint start to chip. Some skilled artists apply a water-repellent preservative, or thinned boiled linseed oil the bare wood before painting to prevent moisture penetration and allow the paint to hold better.
When paint begins 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 on to catch any loose drops of paint. Clean any paint that is loose with a utility knife. Be careful not to cut the wood below or cut the sheathing beneath. Let the area dry completely after thoroughly cleaning it.
Once the surface is dry, sand it again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface that is ready to receive paint. If you're working with lead-based paints, be sure to use proper safety equipment. Clean the sanded area and tape off any surfaces adjacent to it, such as baseboards, to shield them from paint.
Then, prime and paint as directed on the specific paint tin you're using. Make sure you follow the temperature and curing guidelines on the paint as they differ by type. Finally, be sure to paint the exterior with an exterior-grade paint, and the interior with an interior grade.
Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a more affordable alternative to replacing them. If your window frames can't be repaired, it may be worth upgrading to newer energy efficient windows.
Cracked Glass
A broken window can leave your home vulnerable to wind and rain, as well as bugs. If the crack or break is not too severe, you can repair it yourself. It is important to address small cracks as soon as you notice them before they get worse due to temperature changes or time.
There are a myriad of methods that claim to make broken glass invisible but this is an extremely high task for a DIY. Even a tiny chip could cause a crack in the glass, which can lead to more breaks and costly replacement. The best solution is to cover the crack with plastic. It covers it from the outside and prevents air or moisture from getting through, which could damage the frame or seals around the windows.
Put on your protective glasses and gloves prior to removing the broken glass from the frame. Use a utility blade, scraper or chisel, to remove the old glazing points that keep the glass in place. Utilize the knife to cut away any bare wood, then apply linseed or a clear wood sealer.
The glass can be glued back into its original position by using epoxy. This method is the longest-running but it will give your glass a more robust appearance. If you are using epoxy, select the double-cylinder model that distributes the resin and hardener in equal proportion. This allows you to control exactly how much is applied to the glass which will ensure a solid seal.
When you are resetting double or triple pane windows, be sure that the gas fills are intact. These gases are crucial to keep warm inside your home in the winter and outside during summer. If you take the window off the gasses will escape and cause the glass to decrease its energy efficiency. Gas fills can be replaced using the same method as to repair cracks on other kinds of glass.