11 Strategies To Refresh Your Window Repair

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 one of the many things that can cause cracks in glass windows. A broken window allows rain, wind insects, and other unwelcome elements to get into your home.

Although it is impossible to make a cracked window completely invisible, there are ways to fix it and stop it from spreading further.

Water Damage

Water seeping 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 the frame to rot. It also can reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames without causing damage to them.

Wood rot is another problem that affects both the interior and the exterior of your window. If you have windows made of wood with rotting areas, it may be possible to repair them, if they're not terribly damaged. However, if the rot has spread to the mullions or muntins (the parts of your window frame that hold the glass panes) they might need to be replaced. This could cost more than a new set windows.

Another common issue that requires replacement is a damaged seal between the double glazing panes of your windows. This can be a result of condensation or debris between the two panes or it could be an indication that the insulation in your window has been damaged. Fortunately, the majority of modern windows have insulation built into them. They won't face the same problems as older windows with multiple panes.

Unattractive casings, such as ones that are loose, cracked or rotten, as well as missing, could cause other issues. It's 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 based on the condition of the wood and the surrounding.

If the exterior casing isn't in great condition and you're looking to replace it, a fresh coat of weather-resistant paint for your exterior might be all you need to prevent moisture from damaging your window. Installing new exterior casing can be a beautiful and practical upgrade to your home.

Chipped or Peeling Paint

Window frames and sills are often in close proximity to the elements, so they can take a lot abuse from sunlight and precipitation. Moisture is the main reason for paint peeling around windows, particularly if the wood is exposed. Water seeps into the wood, and when it evaporates, the pressure below the film of paint causes the paint to peel. The moisture may be from condensation in the interior or from rain and snow on the exterior. It is essential to scrape and sand the surface as soon as you see the paint chipping. Some meticulous painters add a water-repellent preservative or thinned boiled Linseed oil to the wood before painting to slow moisture penetration and help the new paint hold better.

When paint begins to chip, it's the time to consider repairing your window. Before you apply a new coat, lay a drop cloth or tarp over the area you're working to catch any loose drops of paint. Get rid of any paint that has fallen off using a utility blade. Be careful not gouge the wood beneath or cut through the sheathing. Allow the area to dry completely after scrubbing it thoroughly.

Once the area is dry, sand it again with a fine-grit sanding block. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface that is ready to receive paint. Use the correct safety equipment when you're using paint that is based on lead. Tape off any surfaces that are adjacent to the sanded area like baseboards. This will shield them from paint.

Then, prime and paint according to the instructions on the specific tin of paint that you're using. Be sure to follow the curing and temperature guidelines on the paint can as they will differ depending on the type. Make sure you paint the exterior surface with an exterior-grade paint, 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 cannot be repaired, it might be worth upgrading to more energy efficient windows.

Cracked Glass

A damaged window leaves your home vulnerable to winds, rain and bugs. If the break or crack isn't severe enough you can fix it yourself. Repair small cracks right away prior to them getting more severe due to temperature fluctuations or the passage of time.

While there are numerous methods that claim to make broken glass invisible but this is an extremely high order for a DIY project. A small crack can cause a weakness in the window, which could eventually lead to further breaks and a more expensive replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a great solution. It covers the crack from the outside and blocks moisture or air from seeping through, which could damage the frame or seals around windows.

Wear safety glasses and gloves prior to taking the broken glass off the frame. Use a utility blade, scraper or chisel, to remove the old glazing points that keep the glass in place. Make use of the knife to remove any bare wood, then finish it off with Linseed or a clear sealer.

The glass can be put back in its original position using epoxy. This is the longest-lasting option, but it will also give your glass a more solid appearance. Select the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that dispensing resin as well as hardener in a similar way. This lets you precisely control the amount of epoxy is applied to the window, which will help ensure a solid seal.

If you have double- or triple-pane windows be sure that the gas fills remain intact when resetting the glass. These gases are crucial to insulating and keeping the heat inside your home during the winter months, and outside during summer. If you remove the glass the gases escape through the crack, causing the window to lose its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills by using the same procedure used to repair cracks in other types of glass.