How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, such as the wind or children playing baseball. Often, you can get your window back into good working order by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the easiest way to repair any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just unsightly it can also cause an air leak in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to enter. If your window is double-paned this could be particularly damaging as it ruins the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows could occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack and is identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter, or if the glass is subject to excessive pressure.
If you have a window damaged or cracked there are a few quick solutions to keep water, wind and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the window's crack for example, an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This isn't the most attractive solution, but it will help keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to make a permanent repair.
For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repair s in vehicles, but can also be used at home. You can buy the adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and can stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it could ruin the appearance of your home, and cause mold, water stains and other damages. If you notice water spots or stains on the wall near a window, it is likely that you should call a professional to inspect and fix the issue. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window entirely.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or improper use of materials like building paper or housewrap instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the house.
If you spot a leak, it is important to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these issues, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been leaking for some time.
A quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own however you'll need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In certain situations it might not be enough to stop a leakage particularly if it's a long-term issue.
Contact a reliable Dearborn company to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They'll be able to perform a thorough evaluation and tell you whether the leak is due to the window itself or if it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it is worth attempting to repair the window or whether it's better to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs they'll be able to give you advice on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface like glass. It can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. When windows become foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks appearing on the window.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the underlying problem of a damaged window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another option is to drill holes into the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensate that is trapped. This is a viable option however it is costly and only a cosmetic fix. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will still leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten or twenty years and is now foggy it could be too late for a claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not have problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows and a better energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like a warm home and lower cost of energy. A window contractor who is experienced will ensure that you receive an excellent window. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can raise your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health issues within your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These cracks let cold air in and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can cause drafts. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, the wood can expand and contract, which causes the seals to fall apart. This is usually corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them.
A common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This can be an expensive issue and may require professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from candle to locate a drafty window can help in determining the source of a cold air leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should observe any areas that the flame flickers or bends. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have damaged, you'll need to replace them. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed properly. This is the only way to know that you'll be saving money on your energy bills throughout the year! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide a free estimate! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!