10 Things You Learned In Kindergarden To Help You Get Started With Window Repair
Why Window Repair Is Necessary
A pebble that is thrown by the lawnmowers or a large drink set on your glass-topped coffee table are just among the many factors that can cause cracks in window glass. A broken window can let rain, wind, bugs and other undesirable elements to enter your home.
Although it is impossible to make a window that has been damaged completely invisible however, there are ways to repair it and stop it from spreading further.
Water Damage
If water is leaking through your windows it is likely that a replacement is required. Moisture can cause rot in the wooden frame of your window. It could also affect the efficiency of your window's energy consumption. A reputable window manufacturer can replace your windows without damaging the integrity of your existing frames.
Wood rot is another issue that affects 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 reached your muntins and mullions, (the parts of the window frame that hold your glass panes) You may have to replace the windows. This can be more costly than buying a brand new set.
Another issue that often requires replacement is a failed seal between the double panes of your windows. This could be the result of condensation or debris between the two panes, or it could be a sign that your window's insulation has failed. Modern windows have insulation built in. They won't face the same issues as older windows that have multiple panes.
Cracked, loose or rotting casing around your window is unattractive and can lead to other issues. It is not necessary to replace your windows if the casing has become damaged. You may be able sand it and repaint it to enhance its appearance in accordance with the condition of the wood surrounding it and its condition.
If the exterior casing of your home is in poor condition it is possible to apply a new coat of weather-resistant paint to keep moisture from damaging the window. Installing new exterior casing can be an attractive and functional upgrade to your home.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
Window sills and frames are often in close proximity to the elements, which means they are subject to a lot of wear and tear from rain and sunlight. Peeling paint around windows is primarily caused by moisture, and is particularly so if exposed wood is involved. The water seeps in to the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure in the film of paint causes it to loose adhesion and peel. Moisture may come from condensation in the interior or snow and rain outside. It is important to scrape and sand the surface immediately you notice the paint start to chip. Some skilled painters add a water-repellent preservative or thinned boiled linseed oil to the wood prior to painting to slow moisture penetration and allow the paint to hold better.
When Stratford window repair begins to crack, it's time for a window repair. Before applying a new coat, lay a drop cloth or tarp over the area you're working on to catch any scattered drops of paint. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using an utility knife. Be careful not to cut the wood beneath or cut into the sheathing. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
Once the area has dried, sand again using a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a substrate that is ready for paint. If you're working with lead-based paints, be sure to use the appropriate safety equipment. Clean the sanded surface and tape off any surfaces adjacent to it like baseboards to protect them from paint.
Then paint, prime and then paint according to the directions on the specific paint tin you're using. Follow the temperature and curing instructions on the paint's can as they differ according to the type of paint you're using. Make sure you paint the exterior with a paint that is exterior-grade and the interior with an interior grade.
Window replacement can be costly However, repairing damaged or peeling paint is affordable and can be a viable alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames can't be repaired, it could be worth upgrading to more energy efficient windows.
Cracked Glass
A damaged window leaves your home vulnerable to winds, rain and bugs. It's tempting to replace the glass, but you can also fix it yourself if it's not too big of a crack or break. It is best to fix small cracks as soon they occur, so that they don't get worse with time or temperature fluctuations.
While there are many methods to make damaged glass invisible but this is an extremely high order for a DIY project. A small crack can create a weak point in the window, which can result in further cracks and a costly replacement. A great solution is to cover the crack with plastic. It covers the crack from the outside and prevents air or moisture from leaking through, which can harm the frame or seals around windows.
Put on your protective glasses and gloves prior to taking the broken glass off the frame. Utilize a utility knife, scraper or chisel, to take off the old glazing points that secure the pane. Use the knife to remove any wood that is bare, and then apply linseed or a clear wood sealer.
The glass can be glued back into the position using epoxy. This option is the most time-consuming, but will give your glass a more substantial appearance. Select the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that distributes resin and hardener equally. This allows you to precisely control how much epoxy is applied to the window, which will help to ensure a strong seal.
If you have double or triple-pane windows, be sure that the gas fills are intact when you reset the glass. These gases are essential for insulating your home and ensuring that heat is kept in the winter months and out in summer. If you remove the glass, those gases will escape through the crack, causing the window to lose its energy efficiency. You can replace gas fills using the same method as to repair cracks in other kinds of glass.