Why Window Repair Is Necessary
A pebble that is thrown by the lawnmower or a heavy drink that is set on your glass-topped coffee table are just among the many factors that can cause cracks in glass windows. A damaged window lets rain, wind, insects and other unwanted elements to enter your house.
There are many ways to fix a cracked glass and stop it from spreading.
Water Damage
Water that is leaking out of your window frame is a sign that you should replace it. Moisture can cause rot in the wood of the frame of your window. It could also decrease the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window manufacturer can replace your windows without destroying the integrity of your existing frames.
Wood rot is another issue that affects both the inside and the exterior of your window. If your windows are made of wood and have spots of rotting, 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 your window frame that hold the glass panes), they may need to be rebuilt. This can be more expensive than buying a brand new set.
Another issue that often requires replacement is a damaged seal between the double panes of your windows. This could be caused by condensation or debris between your double-paned windows, or it could be a sign that the insulation of your window 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.
The ugly casings, like those that are damaged, cracked, loose or rotten, or even missing, can create various issues. A damaged casing does not suggest that it's time to replace your windows, though. You may be able to sand it and repaint it to improve its appearance, depending on the condition of the wood surrounding it and its condition.
If the exterior casing isn't in good condition and you're looking to replace it, a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint for your exterior might be the best solution to keep moisture from damaging your window. Alternatively, you can install new exterior casings to offer an attractive and functional upgrade to your home.
Paint that has peeled or chipped
Window frames and sills are usually close to the elements, and they take a lot of damage from precipitation and sunlight. Moisture is the main cause for the peeling of paint around windows, particularly when the wood is exposed. Water seeps into the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure below the paint film causes the paint to peel. The moisture can be caused by condensation in the interior or rain and snow outside. It is important to scrape and sand the surface immediately you notice the paint chipping. Some skilled artists apply a water repellent preservative on the wood, and then thin boiling oil prior to painting. This can help to reduce moisture penetration into the wood, allowing the new paint to hold better.
When paint begins to chip, it's the time to repair your window. Before applying a new coat, place a drop cloth or tarp over the area you're working on to catch any stray drops of paint. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using an utility knife. Be careful not to slash the wood below or cut the underlying sheathing. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
When the area is dry then sand it once more using a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a base that is ready for paint. If you're working with lead-based paint, be sure to use the appropriate safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces that are near to the sanded region like baseboards. This will shield them from paint.
Then paint and prime according to the instructions on the specific tin of paint that you're using. Follow the temperature and curing instructions on the paint's can because they'll differ depending on the type. Paint the exterior with exterior-grade paint, and the interior surface with interior-grade paint.
Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a more affordable alternative to replacing them. If your window frames are unable to be repaired, it could be worth upgrading to more energy efficient windows.
Cracked Glass
A broken window can leave your home vulnerable to winds, rain and bugs. You might be tempted to replace the glass, but you could also fix it yourself if it's not too large a crack or break. Repair small cracks right away, before they become more severe due to temperature fluctuations or the passage of time.
While there are numerous methods that claim to make cracked glass nearly invisible however, this is not a good order for a DIY project. A tiny crack could cause a weakness in the window, which can eventually lead to more breaks and a more expensive replacement. A great solution is to cover the crack with plastic. This protects it from the outside and prevents air or moisture from leaking through, which can damage the frame or seals around windows.
Put on your safety glasses and gloves prior to removing the broken glass from the frame. You'll need a utility knife, scraper or chisel to get rid of any old glazing points that pin the pane into place. Utilize the knife to cut away any wood that is bare, and then apply Linseed or a clear sealer.
Then, you can make use of epoxy to stick the glass back into place. This is the most time-intensive option, but it will also give your glass a more substantial appearance. If you're using epoxy, opt for the double-cylinder model that distributes the resin and hardener in a similar proportion. This lets you control exactly how much is applied to the glass, which helps ensure a good seal.
When you are resetting double or triple pane windows, make sure that the gas fills are not damaged. These gases are crucial to insulating and keeping the heat inside your home during the winter, and outside during summer. If double glazing repair Marlow remove the window, the gases escape and cause it to lose its energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills by using the same procedure to repair cracks on other types of glass.