How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. You can often repair your window by following a couple of simple steps.
The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more robust.
Cracked or broken panes
A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned this could be particularly damaging as it ruins the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks can develop in your windows due to a range of factors including the weather and impacts. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack, also known as a pressure crack, is recognized by its curving form that looks like an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane windows. Extreme temperature differences, especially during winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.
If you have a window that is cracked or broken there are a few quick solutions to keep wind, water and bugs out while you work on a longer-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window, such as an insulated shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows in vehicles. It works at home as well. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. window repairs near me of fix requires more effort, but can last several years and keep the crack from becoming more severe. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your home and cause mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to contact a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the walls around the window. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of inferior materials, such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the home.
If you do spot leaks, it is important to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from the outside of your window for a long time.
A good caulking job can assist in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is essential to wash the area thoroughly first to ensure that the caulking is sealed. In certain situations, this may not suffice to stop a leakage especially if it's an ongoing issue.
Contact a reputable Dearborn company to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and let you know if the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's a problem with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They can also help you decide if it is worth trying to repair the window or whether it is more sensible to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs, they will be able to give you suggestions on how to care for your windows in the future.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unsightly issue. They can also pose a serious energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, forming fog. It can happen naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the underlying issue of a broken seal, and won't stop future window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the trapped condensation. This can be very effective but it's costly and only an aesthetic fix. It is not a replacement for the inert gases between the panes, and can leave stains and deposits behind.
There are a few reasons why windows with double panes can become hazy. The seal could be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. 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 defective thermal windows. However, when the window has been in your home for more than ten or twenty years and is now foggy it's probably past the point of an insurance claim.
The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers other benefits, such as an insulated home and lower energy costs. A window contractor who is experienced will ensure that you get a quality window. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major 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 gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps allow cold air to enter and warm air to leave your home, which increases the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also create drafts. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, the wood can expand and contract, causing the seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This could be a costly issue that requires an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Utilizing the flame of candle to locate drafty windows can help determine the location where a cold leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should take note of any places where the flame moves or bends. This can help you find the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping may help eliminate some drafts. However, more complex problems with your window seals or panes may require a complete replacement. 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. This is the only way to be sure that you'll save on your energy bills all year long! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We are happy to provide a free estimate! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!