How to Repair a Window
Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. Most of the time, you can get your window back into functioning condition by following a few easy steps.
The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more robust.
Broken or cracked panes
A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in windows can be caused by a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall that hits the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be distinguished by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter, or if the glass is placed under the pressure of a high level.
There are some quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes to keep out wind, water and insects while you think of a permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the window's crack like an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.
For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repair s in vehicles, but will also work in your home. You can purchase it online or at many auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is a bit 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 may want to consult an expert.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to a window, it is probably time to call an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.
Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials, such as construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not pitched downward to drain water away from the home.
If you find leaks, it is essential to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Look for areas of rot in the wood surrounding the window, damp walls and sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these signs, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for a long time.
A well-executed caulking job will assist in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a solid seal. In some cases it may not be enough to stop a leakage particularly if it's an ongoing issue.
Contact a reputable Dearborn business to repair your window if you find that your window is leaking. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and let you know if the leak is caused by the window or if it's an issue with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They can also help you determine if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to care for your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold surface such as glass. This can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the root cause of a damaged window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another option is to use a drain snake wrapped in a hose and make holes in your window to eliminate the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is merely a cosmetic fix. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes and will leave behind deposits and stains on the window.
There are several reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, especially older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows. However, when the window has been in your house for ten or twenty-five years and is now hazy you're probably past the point of a warranty claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clean, clear windows and better energy efficiency. It also has other benefits, such as a warm home and lower energy bills. The best method to make sure you purchase the best quality windows is to hire an experienced window installer. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can increase your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes can cause drafts. These cracks let cold air in and warm air to exit your home, causing you to have to run your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is particularly common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. In most cases, this can be remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to find the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should take note of any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you find the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help remove drafts. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you'll require replacement. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and fitted correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year long! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a a free estimate! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!