This Week's Top Stories Concerning Window Repairs
Window Repairs For Hard-To-Reach Areas
A window that is damaged is a serious problem that requires repair promptly before the weather turns too cold. This is especially true if the mullions or muntins which keep glass in place show signs of rot or are brittle and need to be rebuilt.
Applying a thin layer (or nail polish) of transparent shellac, over the crack is a quick and cheap fix. This fixes the crack, decreases the stress on it, and prevents air from getting through.
1. Tape
If you're in a hurry and can't wait to have an expert window repair completed it is possible to repair the issue by putting a few tape strips over the crack. This will stabilize the crack, lessen stress on the glass and prevent cold air from getting into the window frame.
This kind of quick fix is also affordable and easy to implement. If you find yourself in the same situation repeatedly, it could be worthwhile to invest in a good-quality masking tap. It will be able to hold up to more abuse than the typical tape at home, and will last for a longer time.
You can use nail polish that is clear to temporarily repair cracked windows in addition to masking tap. It's not as aesthetically pleasing as tape, but it can do an adequate job of holding the crack in place while you wait for an alternative solution. Be sure to clean the area thoroughly before applying the nail polish and you may have to apply another coat after the first one is dry to completely fill the area.
Wrapping the entire window frame in self-adhesive flashing tape ($12 at The Home Depot) is another alternative. This product creates a completely waterproof barrier that will seal out rain and snow as well as wind, helping to stop cold air from entering your home through windows. Make sure you clean the surface and apply a bit of linseed oil before you apply the tape, which will help it stick to the surface.
Duct tape can also be used to wrap extension cords in a "cubby" that will stop them from bouncing against the interior of your windows. Wrap it securely and assign a distinct color to each type of cord. This will allow you to identify them prior to using them. This will prevent you from having to untangle the extension cords in the winter.
2. Glass Repair Film
A window that is damaged is an expensive and inconvenient issue. It can not only create a security issue by providing an entry point for criminals, it also hinders the natural light and ventilation within the building. This makes it important to find a quick and effective solution to fix the window, particularly in order to avoid further damage to the frame or other materials.
In certain cases, the crack is too severe for a clear tape fix and a professional glazier will have to replace the glass on the window. This is especially true if the window has double-pane glass because a serious crack will compromise the gas layer that connects the two panes and reduce the efficiency of the windows. However, in many situations a cracked window can still be repaired with simple glass repair film.
This durable window repair film is designed to be applied to already damaged and damaged glass to temporarily fix it. The film is commonly used in schools and hospitals to ensure that glass is weatherproof and secure after a break. The film is optically clear, so it doesn't hinder vision through the window and can be applied to flat toughened and laminated glass. It is twice as sturdy as standard window films for safety and can be used to create a safer, more aesthetically pleasing space.
The film can be applied using a razor blade or a knife. It's similar to sticky-back plastic, and can also be cut to the desired size. The film is then encased by a layer called release liner paper, which must be removed before it can be smoothed using a cloth. This makes the window weatherproof and safe while still allowing sunlight to pass through.
It's a cheaper option than hiring a glazier to do the job. It can also aid in preventing further damage to the frame, glass or surrounds. It is also easier to put in place than traditional board ups, and helps reduce OHS concerns with glass shards that can be dangerous.
3. Epoxy
Epoxy is a wildly popular and flexible product to repair wood. More Boston Building Resources members are making use of it to strengthen porch columns, repair windowsills that are rotting, jambs for doors, and other exterior wooden components which are costly or difficult to replace or remove. It starts as a caulk-like substance and can be worked like cookie dough, then molded into rough shapes, carved and sanded, just like wood. It also drys quickly and, unlike some exterior wood fillers that can fall out or crack it will not break off.
Epoxies, also referred to as epoxy resins or epoxy binder, are a wide class of glues that require two parts before they can be cured. They are created from long chemical chains, also known as monomers, which are held together by heat and pressure. They can be tinted with a certain color or transparent and are utilized on all kinds of glass that are laminated, plain or tempered glass, as well as mirrors.
Work in a well-ventilated area and lay clean cardboard to apply epoxy. The epoxy will take a few moments to set, so make sure you are prepared with your tools and in the right mood. If you can, cut off the broken pieces of glass to avoid them breaking again when the epoxy sets.
If you're using liquid epoxy, be sure to follow the instructions on the bottle. If the epoxy dries out too quickly you can heat it up using an iron or hair dryer. Be careful not to overheat, or it could harden and lose its capacity to shape. The heat will also alter the strength of the bond.
After the epoxy has been formed and rounded, it needs to be sanded with 80-grit paper. This will make it ready for painting. Make sure you wear a dust mask while sanding, and sand the wood surrounding it as well, to roughen the surface, so the paint can stick.
Epoxy can be used to repair small chips and cracks in windows, but is not the best choice for repairing structural joints, where the wood dutchman, scarf or splice approach is more suitable. If you are working on a historic structure, epoxy repairs may be irreparable and it's better to replace the damaged piece.
4. Glass Replacement
Window repairs are essential for windows in difficult-to reach areas like dormers and upper floors require extra attention to ensure that they are safe and functional. These windows, regardless of whether they have broken glass or are difficult to open or close, could be energy drainers and security risks.
Fortunately, window repair experts can handle these kinds of repairs too. First cleaning the windows to ensure there are no lingering shards in the frame or mechanism. They then remove the sash, which is the moveable part of the window which allows it to be opened and closed, from the frame. The glass pane is then removed. The professional will probably require gloves and eye protection. double glazed window repairs near me will also need to get rid of any glazing compounds or points, which are like putty fasteners that hold the window panes together. They will then seal the broken glass with tape in order to shield themselves from the razor-sharp edges.
The window is ready to be replaced after the glass has been removed. You can make use of a utility knife to scrape away any remaining glazing compound inside the window frame. A wire brush will also help remove any paint, dirt or other residues that may be stuck into the crevices that are smaller in the window frame. This makes the sash more secure and will fit better within the frame when it is replaced.
This window repair is much easier for single-paned windows than for triple-paned or double paned windows. The experts will need to replace the gas and spacers as well as the panes to restore the window's original aesthetic. However, it is important to note that this kind of repair is still more affordable than replacing the entire window.
Be aware that damaged window sills and frames can cause rot and wood damage. Water leakage can be a costly problem for homeowners. If these issues are not addressed, they can spread to other parts of the house and create more problems. It's better to invest in inexpensive window repairs and catch these issues early.