How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows break due to a variety. It is possible to repair your window by following a couple of simple steps.
Tape is the simplest method to fix any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film which is similar to tape, but is more robust.
Cracked or broken panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just unsightly - it can also create an air leak in your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to enter. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage, as they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass and cause your furnace or AC have to work harder to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of reasons, including the weather and impacts. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes in your home, can cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane remains intact. This kind 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 exterior and interior layers of a double-pane window. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations particularly in winter months, or when the glass is under the pressure of a high level.
There are a few quick fixes for cracked or broken windows to block wind, water, and bugs while you consider a long-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic covering to the window's crack for example, an insulated shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.
You can also use the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal vehicle windows. It will work at home too. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of fix is more labor intensive, but it can last for many years and can keep the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional, based on the extent of the crack on your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your house, and also 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 the window. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or improper use of certain materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled to drain the water away from the house.
It is important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your house if you notice the presence of a leak. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills as well as paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these problems it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window for a long time.
A good quality caulking job will help to fix several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is essential to wash the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure that the caulking is sealed. It may not be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you have an issue that has been brewing for a long time.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn company for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They will be able complete an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also help you decide if it is worth attempting to repair the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can provide advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive issue. They can also pose an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface like glass. It can happen naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets 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 cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help to remove some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the root cause of a broken window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another option is to use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose and drill holes in your window to remove the condensation that has been trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that is efficient. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes, and can leave stains and deposits behind.
There are a variety of reasons a double-pane window may start to fog. Damage to the seal from sanding around the frames or pressure washing may cause the break, and it is possible that the gas/air seal has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for more than ten or twenty years and has become hazy, it could be too late for an claim.
The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new high-quality, durable window that will not be affected by an ineffective seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower cost of energy. The best method to make sure you have a new, quality window is to work with an experienced window contractor. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are accurate and install a window which is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can raise your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These gaps allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also create drafts. This is most common with older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is usually repaired by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This is a costly issue that requires professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate the drafty windows can help in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should take note of any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the draft.
Some 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 will likely require a complete replacement. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement service to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and installed properly. You can only save money on your energy bill if consult with an expert window replacement company. 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!