How to Repair a Window
It could be from baseball players or wind at night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. In most cases you can get your window back in good working order by following a few easy steps.
The easiest fix is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more durable.
Cracked or broken Panes
A broken or cracked glass window can cause more just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned, this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation that the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in your windows can be caused by a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, may cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure fracture is recognized by its curving form that resembles an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure.
If you have a window that has cracked or broken There are a few short-term solutions to keep wind, water and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. You can use a piece cut to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.
For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for windows in vehicles but will also work at home. You can buy this adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more work but it can last for years and stop the crack from getting any worse. You may want to consult with a professional, based on the extent of the crack on your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damage. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near a window, it is likely that you should call a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In some cases it may be necessary for the window to be replaced.
Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of inferior materials like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not inclined downwards to drain water away from the home.
It is crucial to examine both the inside and exterior of your house if you discover an issue with water. Examine for signs of rot in the wood that surrounds the window as well as damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these problems, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a while.
A well-executed caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a solid seal. This might not be enough to stop the leakage especially if you have a problem that's been going on for a while.
If you notice that your window is leaky, it is important to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to conduct a thorough assessment and let you know if the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also assist you to decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs, they'll be able to give you tips on how to care for your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive problem. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface such as glass. This can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in a home where humidity is high. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to 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. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another method is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a pantyhose and then drill holes into your window to remove the condensate that is trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes, and it will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are several reasons why a double-pane window may begin to get a little cloudy. Damage to the seal caused by sanding around the frames or pressure washing can cause the window to break and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, if the window is in your home for more than ten or twenty years and has become foggy you're probably to be beyond the point of a warranty claim.
The most effective way 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 provide clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best method to make sure you purchase the best quality windows is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window which is long-lasting and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, like increased heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes can cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air out of your home, causing you to have to run your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may cause drafts. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fail. This is usually corrected by re-caulking seals or replacing them.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue that requires an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate drafty windows can be helpful in determining the source of a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any places where the flame bends or flickers. This will help you identify the source of the air draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help to reduce drafts. However, more advanced problems with the seals on your windows or panes will likely need a complete replacement. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy-efficient and installed correctly. You will reduce your energy bills if you consult with an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy for you to get an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!