How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows break due to a variety. Often you can get your window back in functioning condition by following just a few simple steps.
Tape is the simplest method to repair any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just unattractive but it could also cause an air leak in your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to enter. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage because they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass, and make your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows can result from a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall from an object hitting the glass, or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the exterior layer of the window to break, whereas the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences particularly in winter months, or when the glass is under excessive pressure.
If you have a window that has cracked or broken There are a few short-term solutions to keep wind, water and bugs out until you work on a longer-term solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the window's crack like a shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This solution doesn't look great, but it will help keep your home dry and warm until you're able to make a permanent repair.
You can also use the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows in vehicles. It can be used at home as well. You can purchase this adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more work but it can last for years and prevent the crack from getting more severe. It is recommended to speak with a professional, based 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 damages. It is time to call in an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the wall surrounding a window. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are typically due to poor 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 at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to drain the water away from the home.
If you find a leak, it is crucial to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Look for areas 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 is coming from outside your window and has been running for a while.
A high-quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly to ensure that the caulking is sealed. This might not be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you have a problem that's been brewing for a while.
If you discover that your window is leaking, it is important to call a reputable Dearborn window repair service. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also tell you if it's worth attempting to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can give you advice about how to maintain your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly issue. They could also be a serious energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface like glass. It can happen naturally when warm, humid air from the home is paired with cold air. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another method is to drill holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. This is a viable option, but it is expensive and is only a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes and will still leave behind deposits and stains 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 may cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air seal has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten years and has become hazy, it might be too late for an claim.
The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new, high-quality window that will not have any problems with an ineffective seal. This will result in clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower utility bills. Employing a window installer who is experienced will ensure that you receive an excellent window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health problems within your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window could be caused by issues with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is often corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has been broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be costly to fix and may require the services of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other areas in the area.
The flame of a candle could be used to find a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should observe any areas that the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows could be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes have damaged, you'll have to replace them. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year long! Contact Arch Design today to find out 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!