How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, such as the wind or children playing baseball. You can often restore your window by following a few simple steps.
The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If the window is double-paned this could be particularly detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks can develop in your windows due to a variety of factors including the weather and impacts. A fall that hits the glass, or pressure changes in your home, can cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack, also known as a pressure fracture can be recognized by its curving form that resembles an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane windows. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is under an excess amount of pressure.
If you have a window that is cracked or broken There are a few short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal vehicle windows. It works at home as well. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of repair requires more work but it can last for years and prevent the crack from getting any more severe. You may want to consult with a professional, based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can affect the appearance of your home. It can also lead to water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to contact an expert if you spot water spots or stains on the walls around the window. In some cases it may be required that the window be replaced.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the use of certain materials like housewrap or building paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled to drain the water away from the home.
It is important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your house if you notice the presence of a leak. Examine for signs of rot in the wood around the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these signs, it is likely that the leak is coming from outside your window and has been leaking for some time.
A good caulking job can aid in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a solid seal. In certain situations it may not be enough to stop leaks particularly if it's an ongoing issue.
Contact a reputable Dearborn firm for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They'll be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also help you determine if it's worth attempting to repair the window or whether it's better to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they will give you advice about how to care for your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just a visual issue. They can also create an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface like glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on the window.
The most common method for fogging windows is to put a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which could help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.
Another option is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and drill holes into your window to release the condensate that is trapped. This is a viable option however it is costly and is only an aesthetic fix. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes, and will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal may be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, especially older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to replace or repair defective thermal windows, but in the event that the window has been in your house for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it's probably to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window will not suffer from issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clear, clean windows and a better energy efficiency. It also has additional benefits, like a warm home and lower energy costs. The best way to be sure you purchase the best quality windows is to partner with an experienced 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
Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. Window drafts are caused by gaps or cracks around the window panes and frame. These cracks let cold air in and warm air to leave your home, causing you to have to run your air conditioner or furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a windows can also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. 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 often repaired by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.
Another common reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows is broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly issue to fix, and may require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.
Utilizing the flame of candles to pinpoint a drafty window can be helpful in determining the source of a cold air leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you find the source of the air draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more advanced issues with your window seals or panes may require a full replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide a free estimate! We look forward to getting in touch with you!