16 Must-Follow Pages On Facebook For Window Repair-Related Businesses
16 Must-Follow Pages On Facebook For Window Repair-Related Businesses
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Why Window Repair Is Necessary
Cracks in window glass could be caused by a small pebble from the lawnmower or a large drink placed on the table that has a glass top. A window that is damaged lets rain, wind insects, and other undesirable elements to get into your home.
While it is not possible to make a cracked window completely invisible but there are ways to fix it and stop it from getting worse.
Water Damage
If water is getting into your windows it is likely that a replacement is required. The moisture can damage the wood in the frame of your window and cause rot. It also can reduce the energy efficiency of your windows. A reputable window replacement company can replace your frames with no damage to them.
Wood rot is a different issue that can affect both the interior and exterior of your window. If your wood windows have rotting spots, a repair may be possible if the rot isn't too advanced. If the rot has gotten to the mullions and muntins, (the parts of the window frame that hold your glass panes) You may have to replace them. This could cost more than a new set windows.
Another issue that often 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 it could be a sign that the insulation of your window has failed. Many modern windows come with insulation built in. They won't have the same problems as older windows that have multiple panes.
Loose, cracked or rotting casings around your windows are not attractive and could cause other problems. A damaged casing does not mean it's time to replace your windows, though. You might be able to sand it and repaint the casing to enhance its appearance, depending on the condition of the wood and the surrounding.
If the exterior casing isn't in good shape, a new layer of weather-resistant exterior paint could be the best solution to keep moisture from damaging your window. Installing new exterior casing can be a beautiful and practical improvement to your home.
Paint that has peeled or chipped
Window frames and sills are often close to the elements and are prone to suffering from sunlight and rain. Moisture is the primary reason for the peeling of paint around windows, particularly if the wood is exposed. The water seeps into the wood and, when it evaporates, the pressure in the film causes it to loose adhesion and peel. Moisture may come from condensation in the interior or rain and snow outside. Regardless of the source, it's important to scrape and sand the surface and then repaint the area as soon as the paint begins to chip. Some meticulous painters apply a water repellent preserver to the bare wood and thinned boiling oil prior to painting. This can help to reduce the penetration of moisture into wood, which will help the new paint to stick better.
When paint begins to chip, it's time to consider repairing your window. Before you apply a new coat, place a drop cloth or tarp on the area you're working on to catch any stray drops of paint. Remove any loose paint with a utility blade. Be careful not to gouge the wood below or cut the sheathing beneath. Let the area dry completely after thoroughly cleaning it.
Once the area is dry, sand the area again with a fine sanding pad. This will prepare the surface for primer and create a surface that's ready for painting. If you're working with lead-based paints ensure you're using proper safety equipment. Clean the sanded area and tape off any adjacent surfaces, such as baseboards, to shield them from paint.
Then paint and prime according to the instructions on the specific tin of paint you're using. Be sure to follow the temperature and curing guidelines on the paint can, as these will vary depending on the type. Paint the exterior with exterior grade paint, and the interior surface with interior-grade paint.
Window replacement can be costly However, repairing damaged or peeling paint is relatively inexpensive and a good alternative to replacing the entire frame. If your window frames are damaged beyond repair, it could be worthwhile to upgrade them to newer, more energy efficient windows.
Cracked glass
A broken window can leave your home exposed to the elements of rain, wind, bugs, and other unpleasant creatures. It's tempting to just replace the glass, but you could repair it yourself if there isn't too severe of crack or break. It's recommended to address small cracks as soon they happen, before they get worse due to time or temperature fluctuations.
There are many ways to make cracked glasses appear as if they are not there. But, this is not an easy task that is achievable by DIYers. A small crack can create a weak point in the window, which could eventually lead to further breaks and a more expensive replacement. Covering the crack with plastic is a great solution. This covers it from the outside and stops moisture or air from seeping through, which can damage the frame or seals around the windows.
Put on your safety glasses and gloves before removing the broken glass from the frame. Utilize a utility knife, scraper or chisel, to cut off the old glazing points that keep the glass in place. It is also recommended to use the knife to pry out any wood that is bare, then clean and seal the area with Linseed oil or a clear wood sealer.
You can then use epoxy to glue the glass back in place. This option is the most time consuming, but will give your glass a more substantial appearance. Select the double-cylinder epoxy dispenser that dispensing resin and hardener in a similar way. This allows you to precisely control the amount of epoxy is poured onto the window, which can help to ensure a strong seal.
When you are resetting double or triple pane windows, make sure that the gas fills are not damaged. These gases are important for insulating your house and keeping heat in during winter and out during summer. If you take the glass off the gases will escape through the crack and cause the window to lose its energy efficiency. You can replace more info the gas fills with the same method used for repairing cracks in other kinds of glass.