Why Window Repair Is Necessary
A pebble that is thrown by the lawnmowers or a large drink set on a glass-topped coffee table are just among the many factors that can cause cracks in window glass. A damaged window could allow wind, rain, bugs and other undesirable elements to get into your home.
There are many ways to fix a cracked glass and stop it from spreading.
Water Damage
The sight of water leaking through your window frame is an indication that you need to replace it. The moisture could damage the wood inside your window frame and cause rot. It could also decrease the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement service can replace your frames without damaging them.
Wood rot is a different issue that can affect both the interior and the exterior of your window. If your wood windows have rotting spots repairs may be possible when the rot isn't advanced. If the rot has gotten to the mullions and muntins, (the parts of the window frame that hold your glass panes) it could be necessary to rebuild them. This can cost more than a new set of windows.
Another common issue that requires replacement is a faulty seal between the double panes of your windows. This could be due to condensation or debris that has formed between your double-paned windows, or a sign that the insulation of your window is failing. Fortunately, a lot of modern windows have insulation in them. They won't have the same problems as older windows with multiple panes.
Loose, cracked, rotting, or missing casing around your window is not attractive and could cause other problems. A damaged casing doesn't mean it's time to replace your windows, though. Depending on the condition of your casing as well as the wood surrounding it, you may be able to sand or paint it to improve its appearance.
If your exterior casing is in bad shape, you may only need to apply a fresh coat of weather-resistant exterior painting to keep water from destroying the window. The installation of a new exterior casing could be a stylish and practical improvement to your home.
Paint chipped or peeling
Window frames and sills are usually close to the elements, and they are subject to a lot of wear and tear from rain and sunlight. Peeling paint around windows is primarily caused by moisture, especially if exposed wood is involved. The water seeps into wood and when it evaporates, the pressure under the film of paint causes it to peel and lose adhesion. The moisture may be caused by condensation in the interior or snow and rain outside. It is essential to scrape and sand the surface immediately you notice the paint chipping. Some meticulous painters apply a water repellent preserver to the bare wood and thinned boiled oil before painting. This can help to reduce the penetration of moisture into wood, allowing the new paint to stick better.
When paint starts to peel off and cracks appear, it's time to fix your window. Before you apply a new coat, lay a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working on to catch any scattered drops of paint. Utilizing a utility knife carefully scrape off any paint that is loose. Be careful not to cut the wood below or cut into 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 paints make sure you use the proper safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces near to the sanded region, such as baseboards. This will shield them from paint.
You can then prime and paint according to the instructions on the tin you are using. Follow the temperature and curing instructions on the can of paint, as they will vary depending on the type of paint. Paint the exterior with exterior grade paint and the interior with interior-grade.
Repairing chipped or peeling painted frames is a cheaper alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair it could be worth upgrading them to newer windows that are more energy efficient.
Cracked Glass
A damaged window leaves your home vulnerable to wind, rain and bugs. If the break or crack isn't severe enough you can repair it yourself. You should address small cracks immediately, before they become more severe due to temperature fluctuations or time.
There are a variety of ways to make broken glasses appear as if they are not there. However, this is not an easy task that can be completed by an amateur. A small crack can cause a weakness in the window, which can eventually lead to more breaks and a larger replacement. The best solution is to cover the crack with plastic. This protects it from the outside and stops air or moisture from leaking through, which can harm the frame or seals around the windows.
Before you put on the plastic wear gloves and safety glasses and remove the broken pane of glass from its frame. You'll require a scraper, utility knife or chisel to get rid of any old glazing points that hold the pane in place. Use the knife to remove any wood that is bare, and then seal it with linseed or a clear wood sealer.
You can then use epoxy to glue the glass back to its original position. This option is the most time-consuming however it will give your glass a more solid appearance. If double glazing repair Guildford using epoxy, opt for the double-cylinder model that distributes the resin and hardener in the same proportion. This allows you to determine exactly how much applied to the glass which will ensure a solid seal.
If you have double- or triple-pane windows, make certain that the gas fills remain intact when you reset the glass. These gases are important for insulating your home and keeping heat in during the winter and out during summer. If you take the glass off, those gases will escape through the crack, causing the window to lose efficiency. Gas fills can be replaced by using the same procedure for repairing cracks on other kinds of glass.