Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in window glass can be caused by a pebble that was thrown by a lawnmower, or a heavy beverage placed on your glass-topped table. A broken window allows rain, wind, insects and other unwanted elements to enter your home.
While it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible but there are ways to repair it and prevent it from becoming worse.
Water Damage
Water seeping through your window frame is an indication that you need to replace it. Moisture can cause rot to the wood of your window frame. It can also reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window company can replace your windows, without compromising the integrity of your existing frames.
Wood rot is another issue that affects both the inside and exterior of your window. If you have windows made of wood with rotting areas, it may be possible to repair them if they are not terribly damaged. If the rot has spread to your muntins and mullions, (the parts of the window frame that hold your glass panes), you may need to rebuild the windows. This can be more costly than buying a brand new set.
Another common issue that requires replacement is a faulty seal between the double panes of your windows. This could be the result of debris or condensation between the two panes or it could indicate that your window’s insulation has failed. Modern windows have insulation built in. They won’t be afflicted with the same problems as older windows that have multiple panes.
Cracked, loose, rotting, or missing the casing around your window is unattractive and can lead to other problems. A damaged casing doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s time to change your windows, but. You may be able sand it and then repaint it to make it look better in accordance with the condition and surrounding wood.
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 all you need to keep moisture from damaging your window. Installing new exterior casing can be a stylish and practical improvement to your home.
Paint chipped or peeling
Window sills and frames are usually close to the elements, so they can take a lot wear and tear from rain and sunlight. Moisture is the main cause for peeling paint around windows, particularly when the wood is exposed. The water seeps into the wood and, when it evaporates, the pressure in the film causes it to peel and lose adhesion. Moisture may come from condensation in the interior, or from snow and rain outside. It is essential to scrape and sand the surface as soon as you see the paint chipping. Some skilled painters apply a water-repellent preservative, or thinned boiled Linseed oil to the bare wood before painting to prevent moisture penetration and help the new paint hold better.
If the paint begins to peel off and cracks appear, it’s time to fix your upvc window repairs. To catch any paint that may stray, place a dropcloth or tarp on the surface before applying a new coat. Remove any loose paint with a utility blade. Be careful not to cut the wood underneath or cut into the sheathing. Allow the area to dry completely after cleaning it thoroughly.
Once the area is dry, sand it again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a base that’s ready to accept paint. If you’re working with lead-based paint, be sure to use the appropriate safety equipment. Clean the sanded surface and tape off any other surfaces, such as baseboards, to protect them from paint.
Then paint and prime according to the directions on the specific tin of paint you’re using. Make sure you follow the temperature and curing guidelines on the paint can, as these will vary according to the type of paint. Finally, be sure to paint the exterior of the surface with an exterior-grade paint and the interior with an interior grade.
Window replacement can be costly Repairing chipped or peeling paint is relatively inexpensive and is an effective alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair however, it could be worth upgrading them to newer windows that are more energy efficient.
Cracked Glass
A broken Window Doctor can leave your home exposed to the elements of rain, wind, bugs, and other unpleasant creatures. If the break or crack isn’t too serious you can fix it yourself. You should address small cracks as soon as you notice them prior to them getting more severe due to temperature fluctuations or time.
There are a myriad of methods that claim to make broken glass invisible however, this is not a good order for a DIY project. A tiny crack could create a weak point in the glass, which could eventually lead to more breaks and a more expensive replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a viable solution. This covers the crack from the outside, and prevents moisture or air from leaking through. This could cause damage to the frames or Window doctor seals around windows.
Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to removing the broken glass from the frame. Use a utility blade scraper, chisel or chisel to cut off the old glazing points that secure the pane. Utilize the knife to cut away any wood that is bare, and then finish it off with Linseed or a clear sealer.
You can then use epoxy to glue the glass back to its original position. This option is the most time-consuming, but will give your glass a more robust appearance. When using epoxy, choose the double-cylinder version that disperses the resin and hardener in the same proportion. This lets you determine exactly how much applied to the glass which helps ensure a good seal.
If you have double- or triple-pane windows, make certain that the gas fills remain intact when resetting the glass. These gases are essential for insulating and keeping the heat inside your home during the winter, and outside during summer. If you remove the window the gasses escape and cause it to decrease its energy efficiency. Gas fills can be replaced in the same way as to repair cracks in other types of glass.