How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break due to a variety. You can often restore your window by following a few easy steps.
The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape, but is more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A damaged or cracked window isn't just unattractive - it can also create an air leak in your home that allows wind, rain and bugs 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 an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in windows can result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break, whereas the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is called a pressure crack. It is identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations particularly in winter, or if the glass is placed under the pressure of a high level.
If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken There are a few short-term solutions to keep water, wind and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the window's crack, such as an insulated shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This isn't the most attractive solution but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows on vehicles. It will work at home too. You can buy the adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Then, follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and stop the crack from getting worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you may want to consult an expert.
Water Infiltration
If a window is damaged, it can damage the appearance of your home and can cause mold, water stains and other damage. If you spot water spots or stains on the wall near windows, it's probably time to call an expert to look into and fix the issue. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are usually caused by improper installation or the use of poor quality materials, such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the house.
If you do spot leaks, it's essential to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Check for rot-prone areas 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 signs it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been running for a while.
A quality caulking job will help to fix numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a solid seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have a problem that has been brewing for a long time.
If you find that your window is leaky then it is crucial to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair service. They will be able complete a full assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window or 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. Once the professionals have evaluated and made the repairs, they'll be able to provide tips on how to take care of your windows in the future.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface like glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When window panes get foggy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and use a drain snake encased in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be very effective however it is costly and only a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons double-pane windows can begin to fog. The seal may be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten or twenty years and has become hazy, it could be too late for claims.
The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems due to faulty sealing. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy costs. The best method to make sure you purchase a new, quality window is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in 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 could cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit your home, causing you to have to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, the wood can expand and contract, causing seals to fail. This is often repaired by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.
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, allowing the argon gas to escape. This can be an expensive issue and may require a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to find an unheated or drafty window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any places where the flame moves or bends. This can help you find the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help to eliminate some drafts. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will need to replace them. Consult with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. You will save money on your energy bill if consult with an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to give you an estimate for free! We look forward hearing from you!