How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, like wind or kids playing baseball. You can usually restore your window by following a few simple steps.
The easiest fix is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.
Cracked or broken Panes
A broken or cracked glass window can result in more than just a unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to enter your home. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can ruin the insulation offered by the glass and make your AC or furnace work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.
Cracks can develop in your windows due to a range of reasons, including the weather and impact. A fall hitting the glass, or pressure changes inside your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack and is identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months, or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks of this kind.
If you have a window that is cracked or broken There are a few short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't the most attractive solution but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to tackle a more permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal vehicle windows. It will work at home as well. You can purchase this adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions 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 becoming worse. You may want to consult with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your home and also cause mold, water stains and other damage. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near a window, it is likely time to contact a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In some instances it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.
Leaks around windows are typically caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials, like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the home.
If you spot leaks, it is essential to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Look for rotted wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these issues, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing for a while.
A quality caulking job will assist in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is essential to wash the area thoroughly first to ensure a seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you've got a problem that has been going on for a long time.
If you find that your window is leaking, it is important to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to provide a full assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. 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 will provide advice on how to maintain your windows.
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Foggy windows are more than simply ugly, they could be a serious energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates on a cool surface, such as glass, and forms fog. This can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which can help remove some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective however it is costly and is only cosmetically correct. It is not a replacement for the inert gas between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.
There are several reasons why a window with double panes may fog. The seal could be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has degraded over time, especially older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, in the event that the window has been in your home for ten or twenty years and is now hazy it's probably beyond the scope of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows and better energy efficiency. It also has other benefits, such as an insulated home and lower energy bills. The best way to make sure you get the best quality windows is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major issues, including higher heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs in the summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health problems in your home. The gaps or cracks that are around the window frame and panes can cause drafts. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your AC or furnace to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a windows can also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This could be a costly problem and could require professional help from a window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Using the flame from a candle to locate the drafty windows can help in determining the source of a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This will help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping may help reduce drafts. However, more advanced issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require a full replacement. It is important to speak with an experienced window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for you at no cost! We look forward hearing from you!