9 . What Your Parents Taught You About Window Repair
Why Window Repair Is Necessary
A pebble that is thrown by the lawnmower or a heavy drink set on a glass-topped coffee table are among the many factors that can cause cracks in glass windows. A broken window lets rain, wind insects, and other unwelcome elements to enter your home.
Although it is impossible to make a damaged window completely invisible however, there are ways to repair it and stop it from spreading further.
Water Damage
Water that is leaking out of your window frame is a sign that you should replace it. The moisture can damage the wood in your window frame and cause the frame to rot. It could also affect the efficiency of your window's energy use. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames with no damage to them.
Wood rot is a different issue that affects both the inside and exterior of your window. If your windows are made of wood and have rotting spots repairs may be possible in the event that the rot isn't advanced. However, if the rot has spread to your mullions or muntins (the parts of the window frame that support the glass panes), they may need to be replaced. This can be more costly than buying a brand new set.
Another issue that is often required for replacement is a failed seal between your double-paned windows. This could be due to condensation or debris between your double-paned windows, or a sign that the insulation in your window has failed. A lot of modern windows have insulation built in. They won't face the same problems as older windows with multiple panes.
Casings that are ugly, such as those that are damaged, cracked, loose or rotten, or even missing, can create various issues. A damaged casing doesn't suggest that it's time to replace your windows, however. Depending on the condition of your casing and the surrounding wood you may be able to sand or paint it to enhance its appearance.
If the casing on the outside isn't in good shape A new coat of weather-resistant exterior paint could be the best solution to keep moisture from damaging your window. You can also install new exterior casing to provide an attractive and functional upgrade to your home.
Paint that is peeling or chipped
Window frames and sills are typically close to the elements, so they can take a lot abuse from sunlight and precipitation. Paint peeling around windows is primarily caused by moisture, and is particularly so if exposed wood is involved. Water seeps through the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the paint film causes the paint to peel. Moisture can come from condensation in the interior, or from rain and snow on the exterior. No matter the source it's essential to clean and sand the surface and then repaint the area as soon as the paint begins to chip. Some skilled artists add a water-repellent preservative or thinned boiled linseed oil to the bare wood before painting to slow moisture penetration and make the new paint hold better.
If paint begins to peel off and cracks appear, it's time to fix your window. To capture any paint that may stray, place a dropcloth or tarp on the area before applying a new coat. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using a utility blade. Be careful not to gouge the wood below or cut through the sheathing underneath. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
After the area has dried, sand it again with a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a base ready to accept paint. If you're working with lead-based paint, be sure to use the proper safety equipment. Tape off any surfaces that are close to the sanded surface like baseboards. This will protect them from paint.
Then, prime and paint as directed on the specific tin of paint that you're using. Be sure to follow the temperature and curing guidelines on the paint can as they will differ by type. Make sure you paint the exterior of the surface with a paint that is exterior-grade and the interior with an interior grade.
Repairing peeling or chipped painted frames is a cheaper alternative to replacing frames. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair however, it could be worth upgrading them to more modern windows that are more energy efficient.
Cracked Glass
A broken window can leave your home vulnerable to winds rain, insects and wind. It's tempting to replace the glass, but you could also repair it yourself if you don't have too large crack or break. It is important to address small cracks immediately before they get worse due to temperature changes or the passage of time.
There are a variety of ways to make broken glasses appear as if they are not there. But this isn't a project that is achievable by an amateur. Even a small crack will create a weak spot in the glass, which could result in further cracks and a costly replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a viable solution. It covers the crack from the outside and stops moisture or air from seeping through, which can harm the frame or seals around windows.
Before you put on the plastic and putting on your protective eyewear and gloves, and then remove the broken piece of glass from its frame. Use a utility blade scraper, chisel or chisel to remove the old glazing points that hold the pane in place. Also, you should make use of the knife to pull out any wood that's bare and then clean and seal the area with Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer.
You can then make use of epoxy to stick the glass back to its original position. This option is the most time consuming however it will 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 allows you to precisely control the amount of epoxy that is poured onto the window, which can help to ensure a strong seal.
When resetting double- or triple pane windows, be sure the gas fills are not damaged. window repairs are important for insulating your house and keeping heat in during the winter and out in the summer. If you take the glass off these gases escape through the crack and cause the window to lose energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills using the same method used to repair cracks in other kinds of glass.