How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows break for a variety of reasons. Often, you can get your window back in good working order by following some simple steps.
The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more robust.
Cracked or broken Panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just unsightly it can also cause an air leak in your home, allowing bugs, rain and wind to enter. If your window is double-paned this could be particularly detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in your windows could occur from a number of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, can cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack is called a pressure crack and can be distinguished by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is placed under the pressure of a high level.
There are several quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes to keep out wind, water, and bugs while you think of a permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window for example, a shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This isn't very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.
For a longer-lasting option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for vehicle windows but also works at home. You can purchase the adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more effort, but can last several years and prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to talk to a professional.
Water Infiltration
If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your house, and cause water stains, mold and other damages. It is time to call in a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the wall surrounding a window. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.
Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of low-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 to drain the water away from the house.
If you spot a leak, it is essential to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Examine for signs of rot in the wood around the window or sills, damp walls and walls as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these problems, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been running for a while.
A quality caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area first 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 going on for a long time.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn business to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able to provide an assessment of the entire situation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also advise you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it's more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs they'll be able to provide tips on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface, like glass. It can happen naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on the window.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier close to the window, which could help remove some of the moisture in the air. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another method is to drill holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. This can be very effective, but it is expensive and only a cosmetic fix. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave stains and traces of rust behind.
There are several reasons why a window with double panes may fog. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in use for more than ten or twenty years and has become hazy, it might be too late for a claim.
The most effective way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems due to faulty sealing. This will provide clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy bills. Working with a window contractor who is skilled will ensure that you get the best window. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are accurate and install a window which is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows can cause serious problems, such as the increase in heating costs during winter and more expensive cooling costs in the summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues within your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These cracks let warm air escape your home, and cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your AC or furnace to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to break down. Often, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. window repairs near me could be a costly issue that requires professional help from a window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to locate an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame, and note any areas where the flame bends or flickers. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will need to replace them. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that the windows you choose are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to be sure that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate for you at no cost! We look forward getting in touch with you!