The Most Hilarious Complaints We've Seen About Window Repair

Why window repairs Repair Is Necessary

Cracks in windows can be caused by a pebble that was thrown by the lawnmowers or a large beverage placed on your glass-topped table. A broken window allows wind, rain, insects and other unwanted elements to enter your home.

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

Water Damage

If water is seeping through your windows replacing them is typically necessary. The moisture can cause damage to the wood of the window frame and cause rot. It can also reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement service can replace your frames without causing damage to them.

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

Another common issue that requires replacement is a failed seal between your double-paned windows. This can be a result of condensation or debris between the two panes or it could be a sign that the insulation in your window has been damaged. Many modern windows come with insulation built-in. This means they don't face the same issues as older multi-paned windows.

Loose, cracked, rotting, or missing the casing around your window is not attractive and could cause other problems. A damaged casing alone doesn't necessarily mean that it's time to change your windows, however. Depending on the condition of your casing and the wood around it you may be able to sand it and repaint it to enhance its appearance.

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

Paint chipped or peeling

Frames and window sills are usually close to the elements, so they are subject to a lot of abuse from sunlight and precipitation. Moisture is the main reason for paint peeling around windows, particularly if the wood is exposed. The water seeps in to the wood and when it evaporates, the pressure beneath the film of paint causes it to peel and lose adhesion. The moisture can be caused by condensation in the interior or rain and snow on the exterior. It is essential to sand and scrape the surface immediately you notice the paint begin to chip. Some meticulous painters add a water-resistant preservative or thinned boiled linseed oil to the wood before painting to reduce the penetration of moisture and help the new paint hold better.

If the paint begins to peel off, it's time to repair your window. To catch any paint that may stray onto the floor, place a dropcloth or tarp on the area before applying a new coat. Using a utility knife, carefully scrape away any paint. Be careful not to cut the wood below or cut through the sheathing underneath. Clean the area thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.

Once the area is dry, sand it again using a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface that's ready to accept paint. Make sure you have the appropriate safety equipment when you're using paint that is based on lead. Tape off any surfaces that are close to the sanded surface like baseboards. This will protect them from paint.

Then, prime and paint according the instructions on the tin you are using. Follow the curing temperature and temperature guidelines on the can of paint, as they will vary depending on the type. Also, make sure to paint the exterior surface with an exterior-grade paint, and the interior with an interior-grade.

Repairing damaged or peeling painted frames is a more affordable alternative to replacing them. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair however, it might 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 crack or tear is not too severe you can repair it yourself. Repair small cracks immediately prior to them getting worse due to temperature changes or time.

There are a variety of ways to make damaged glasses appear as if they are not there. However, this is not an easy task that can be done by DIYers. Even a tiny chip can cause a crack in the glass, which can result in more breakage and costly replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a viable solution. It covers it from the outside and prevents moisture or air from seeping through, which could damage the frame or seals around the windows.

Before you put on the plastic, put on your gloves and safety glasses and remove the broken pane of glass from its frame. Use a utility blade, scraper or chisel, to cut off the old glazing points that keep the glass in place. Utilize the knife to cut away any wood that is not used, then finish it off with linseed or a clear wood sealer.

The glass can be put back in the position by using epoxy. This option is the most time consuming however it will give your glass a more substantial appearance. Select the double-cylinder dispenser that distributes resin and hardener in a similar way. This allows you to precisely control how much epoxy is poured onto the window, which will help to ensure a strong seal.

If you have double- or triple-pane windows, be sure that the gas fills remain intact when you reset the glass. These gases are crucial for insulating your house and ensuring that heat stays inside the winter months and out during summer. If you take the window repair off the gasses will escape and cause the glass to decrease its energy efficiency. You can replace the gas fills using the same method that is used to repair cracks in other kinds of glass.