How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, like children playing baseball or wind. Often you can get your window back in functioning condition by following a few easy steps.
The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly it can also cause an air leak inside your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to enter. If your window is double-paned this can be especially harmful as it damages the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of factors including the weather and impacts. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass, or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure crack, can be identified by its curved shape that looks like an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature variations, particularly in winter or excessive pressure on the glass may cause cracks of this kind.
There are a few quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes that will keep out the elements of wind, water and insects while you plan a permanent solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution is not very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows in vehicles. It will work at home as well. You can purchase it online or at many auto maintenance stores, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of fix is a bit more labor-intensive, however it can last for several years and will keep the crack from getting worse. You might want to consult with a professional depending on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home. It can also lead to water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call in a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the wall around a window. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.
Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of poor quality materials, like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. window repair near me is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.
If you spot a leak, it is essential to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these signs it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window for a long time.
A good quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a tight seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage especially if you have an issue that has been brewing for a long time.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn business to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also advise you if it's worth attempting to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll provide advice on how to care for your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unsightly problem. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, such as glass, forming fog. This happens naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When windows become cloudy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help to remove some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes in the window and use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhoses to clear the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be effective. It won't replace the gas in between the panes and will leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons double-pane windows can start to fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has simply degraded over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows. However, in the event that the window is in your home for ten or twenty years and is now hazy, it's likely past the point of a warranty claim.
The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not be affected by a faulty seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. It also has other advantages, including an insulated home and lower cost of energy. The best way to be sure you have the best quality windows is to partner with an experienced window contractor. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is sturdy and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, like increased heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes can create drafts. These cracks let warm air escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your AC or furnace to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fall apart. This is often fixed by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.
The most common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This is a costly issue that requires professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from candle to locate a drafty window can be helpful in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should take note of any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This will help you determine the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious problems with your window seals or panes will likely require a full replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to be sure that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for free! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!