How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. In most cases, you can get your window back into functioning condition by following some simple steps.
Tape is the easiest way to fix any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape but are more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A damaged or cracked glass window can result in more than simply a sloppy appearance. It could also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage because they can ruin the insulation provided by the glass and make your furnace or air conditioner work more hard to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of factors including weather conditions and impact. A fall from an object striking the glass or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure crack, can be identified by its curving shape that looks like an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass can lead to cracks like these.
If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken there are a few quick solutions to keep water, wind and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic covering to the window's crack, such as a shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This solution is not very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.
To make a long-lasting choice, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repair s in vehicles, but can also be used at home. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto repair shops and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort, but can last several years and stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to windows, it's likely that you should call a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.
Leaks around windows are usually due to poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to drain the water away from the house.
If you do spot leaks, it's essential to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Look for areas of rot in the wood that surrounds the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues it is likely the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing for a while.
A quality caulking job can resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a good seal. This might not be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you've got a problem that has been going on for a long time.
If you find that your window is leaking then it is crucial to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window or if it is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also help you decide if it is worth attempting to repair the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the repairs, they'll be able to provide you with suggestions on how to care for your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on windows.
Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the root cause of a window seal that is broken and will not prevent future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and will still leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are many reasons why a double-pane window may begin to fog. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded or pressure washing can cause the window to break and it's possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has degraded over time, especially in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in place for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it could be too late to make an claim.
The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality, durable window that will not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will give clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy costs. Working with a window contractor who is experienced will ensure that you get a quality window. A reputable contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is sturdy and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be a serious issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health issues within your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes can create drafts. These gaps let cold air in and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.
A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, the wood can expand and contract, causing seals to break down. Most of the time, this is remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This is a costly issue and may require an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to locate a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should take note of any areas that the flame flickers or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. However, more complex problems with your window seals or panes may require a full replacement. It is essential to consult an experienced window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. You will only reduce your energy bill if seek out an experienced window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide no-cost estimates! We're looking forward to hearing from you!