How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows are broken due to a variety of reasons. You can often restore your window by following a few easy steps.
The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but are more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A cracked or broken glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage as they can degrade the insulation created by the glass and cause your furnace or air conditioner have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
Cracks in windows can be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane is not damaged. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack. It is identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially during winter or pressure that is too high on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.
If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken There are a few short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out until you plan a more permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack like a shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home dry and warm until you are able to tackle a more permanent repair.
If you want a more durable option, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in the majority of auto repair stores. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and prevent the crack from getting 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 appearance of your home, and cause water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the wall surrounding the window. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are often caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, such as housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to let the water drain away from the house.
If you do spot leaks, it is important to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Look for window repairs near me around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for some time.
A high-quality caulking job can help resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking by yourself however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In some cases, this may not be enough to stop a leak, especially if it is a long-term issue.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn company for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They can provide an exhaustive assessment and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also assist you to determine if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs they'll be able to provide tips on how to take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows aren't simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, such as glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
A common solution for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which will assist in removing some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another option is to drill holes into the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and it will still leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. The seal could be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but when the window is in your home for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it's probably past the point of an insurance claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A new, top-quality replacement window won't have problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower energy costs. The best way to be sure you purchase the best quality windows is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can raise your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts result from gaps or cracks around the frame and window panes. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window can be caused by issues with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. In most cases, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has been broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue and may require an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to locate a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should take note of any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the air draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have damaged, you'll have to replace them. Consult with an expert in window replacement to ensure that the windows you choose are energy-efficient and installed correctly. You will reduce your energy bill if consult with an expert window replacement service. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a no-cost estimates! We look forward hearing from you!