How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can get your window back into working order by doing some simple steps.
The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more robust.
Broken or cracked panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly it can also cause an air leak in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to enter. If your window is double-paned this could be particularly harmful as it damages the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a range of factors, including the weather and impacts. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, can cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane is not damaged. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack. It is identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks like these.
If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out until you work on a longer-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window, such as a piece of plastic shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home warm and dry until you are able to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows in vehicles. It works at home as well. You can purchase this adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more work however it can last for several years and stop the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can affect the appearance of your home. It can also lead to water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to call in an expert if you spot water stains or spots on the wall around the window. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the window entirely.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is improper installation or the use of materials such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled to drain the water away from the house.
It is important to inspect both the interior and exterior of your house if you discover a leak. Look for areas of rot in the wood surrounding the window as well as damp walls and sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these issues it is likely the leak is originating from outside your window and has been flowing for a while.
A quality caulking job can resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly first to ensure a tight seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you've got a problem that's been brewing for a while.
If you discover that your window is leaky and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to contact a reputable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's a problem with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also assist you to decide if it is worth trying to repair the window or whether it is more sensible to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can give you advice about how to keep your windows in good condition.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, forming fog. This can occur naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on the window.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the underlying problem of a broken window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another method is to make holes in the window and then use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhoses to clear the trapped condensation. upvc windows repairs near me is an expensive cosmetic solution that is effective. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.
There are several reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing can cause the crack and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in use for more than ten years and is now foggy it may be too late to file claims.
The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a brand new, high-quality window that will not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best way to make sure you get an excellent window is to work with an experienced window installer. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are accurate and will install a window that is sturdy and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major issues, including higher heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the window panes and frame. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air out of your home, causing you to have to run your air conditioner or furnace to keep the temperature comfortable.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can cause drafts. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing seals to fail. This can often be repaired by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.
The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This is a costly issue that requires a professional window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to locate an unheated or drafty window. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. However, more complex issues with your window seals or panes could need a complete replacement. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year long! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for you at no cost! We look forward hearing from you!