How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. It is possible to restore your window by following a few simple steps.
The easiest fix is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Cracked or broken Panes
A damaged or cracked glass window can result in more than just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely damaging as it ruins the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of reasons, including the weather and impacts. A fall from an object hitting the glass or simply pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of the window to break, while the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure crack, is recognized by its curving form that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double pane window. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences particularly in winter months, or when the glass is subject to an excess amount of pressure.
There are some quick fixes for cracked or broken windows to block wind, water, and bugs while you plan a permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack, such as an insulated shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This solution is not very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal vehicle windows. It can be used at home as well. You can purchase this on the internet or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort however it can last for several years and stop the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional, based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can damage the appearance of your home, and also cause water stains, mold and other damage. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near windows, it's likely that you should call a professional to inspect and fix the issue. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is improper installation or the use of certain materials like housewrap or building paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. window repair near me is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't pitched downward to drain water away from the house.
It is crucial to examine both the inside and exterior of your house when you notice a leak. Examine for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these signs it is likely the leak is originating from outside your window and has been leaking for some time.
A good caulking job can help to resolve many small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own however you'll need to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a solid seal. In certain situations it may not be enough to stop a leak, especially if it is an ongoing issue.
If you notice that your window is leaky, it is important to call a reputable Dearborn window repair service. They'll perform a thorough evaluation and tell you if the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They will also be able to tell 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 will be able to provide tips on how to take care of your windows in the future.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unsightly problem. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, to form fog. This happens naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in a home where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on windows.
A common solution for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier close to the window, which can help remove some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective but it's costly and only a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes and will still leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded or pressure washing could cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has simply degraded over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but in the event that the window is in your home for more than ten or twenty years and is now foggy it's probably to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. 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 additional benefits, like an insulated home and lower energy costs. The best method to make sure you get the best quality windows is to work with an experienced window installer. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues in your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the frame and window panes. These gaps allow cold air to enter and warm air to exit your home, which increases the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing seals to break down. Often, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason for 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. This could be an expensive issue to fix, and may require the services of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other local areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to locate an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any spots where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping may help reduce drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you'll require replacement. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. You can only save money on your energy bill if you consult with an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a an estimate for free! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!