How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, including the wind or children playing baseball. You can usually restore your window by following a couple of simple steps.
Tape is the easiest way to repair any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but are more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just ugly - it can also create an air leak inside your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to get into. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a variety of factors, including the weather and impacts. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack, also known as a pressure crack, is identified by its curved shape that looks like an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass may cause these types of cracks.
If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term solutions to keep wind, water and bugs out while you work on a longer-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window, such as an insulated shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This isn't the most attractive solution but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.
If you want a more durable option you can opt for glass adhesive, which is usually used for vehicle windows but also works in your home. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of repair will require more effort, but can last several years and keep the crack from getting more severe. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to talk to a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks it can damage the appearance of your home, and can cause water stains, mold, and other damages. If you spot water spots or stains on the wall near windows, it's probably time to call an expert to assess and fix the issue. In certain cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, such as housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled to allow the water to drain away from the house.
If you spot leaks, it's important to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your home. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window or sills, damp walls and walls as well as paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these problems, it is likely that the leak is coming from outside your window and has been running for some time.
A high-quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is essential to wash the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a seal. In some instances it might not suffice to stop a leakage, especially if it is a long-term issue.
If you notice that your window is leaked and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and inform you if the leak is due to the window itself or if it's an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also tell you whether it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it makes more sense 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.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, forming fog. This can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, particularly in homes where humidity is high. If windows become hazy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another option is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhoses to clear the condensate that is trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is effective. It doesn't replace the inert gases that are between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits.
There are several reasons why a window with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the window to break and it's possible that the gas/air seal has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, when the window has been in your home for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy you're probably to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not have any problems with an ineffective seal. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best way to make sure you purchase an excellent window is to partner with an experienced window installer. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty can cause serious issues, including the increase in heating costs during winter and more expensive cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues in your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes can cause drafts. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window can be caused by issues with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. In most cases, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another common reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue and may require professional help from a window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to locate the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any areas that the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and installing weather stripping may help remove drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will need to replace them. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and fitted properly. You will save money on your energy bill if you contact an expert window replacement company. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!