How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. Often, you can get your window back in functioning condition by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the most efficient method to fix any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more durable.
Cracked or broken Panes
A broken or cracked glass window can cause more just a unsightly appearance. It could also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned this can be especially damaging as it ruins the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows could be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, can be recognized by its curving form that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially during winter or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks like these.
There are several quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes to keep out wind, water and bugs until you plan a permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the window's crack, such as a shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This isn't the most attractive solution, but it will help 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, which is usually used for windows in vehicles but can also be used in your home. You can buy this online or at many auto repair shops, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort however it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the condition of your window you may want to consult a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it could ruin the appearance of your home, and also cause water stains, mold, and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to the window, it's probably time to call an expert to assess and repair the problem. In certain cases, it may be necessary to replace the window entirely.
Leaks around windows are typically caused by improper installation or the use of low-quality materials, such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downwards to let the water drain away from the house.
It is important to inspect both the inside and exterior of your home if you spot an issue with water. Examine for signs of rot in the wood that surrounds the window or sills, damp walls and walls, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues it is likely the leak originates outside your window and has been running for a while.
A high-quality caulking job can resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking by yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you've got a problem that's been brewing for a while.
Contact a reliable Dearborn company to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you if the leak is caused by the window itself or if it is an issue with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll provide advice on how to maintain your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold surface like glass. This happens naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, particularly in homes where humidity is high. When window repairs near me get foggy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on windows.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier close to the window, which could assist in removing some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another option is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the trapped condensation. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is merely a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are several reasons why a window with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded or pressure washing can cause the break, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, when the window has been in your house for more than ten or twenty years and has become foggy, it's likely beyond the scope of a warranty claim.
The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems with a faulty sealing. This will provide clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and many other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy bills. The best way to make sure you purchase an excellent window is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, such as increased heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort and health problems within your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and 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 maintain a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also cause a draft. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. This is often corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows is broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is a costly problem and could require a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from candle to locate drafty windows can help in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any areas that the flame flickers or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help eliminate some drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes are damaged, you'll have to replace them. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. You can only save money on your energy bill if you contact an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide an estimate for free! We look forward to getting in touch with you!