How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, like children playing baseball or wind. In most cases you can fix your window back in working order by doing just a few simple steps.
Tape is the easiest way to repair any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more robust.
Broken or cracked Panes
A broken or cracked glass window can cause 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 degrade the insulation provided by the glass and cause your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable home temperature.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a variety of reasons, including the weather and impact. A fall from an object hitting the glass, or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break, while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack and is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane windows. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is placed under excessive pressure.
If you have a window pane damaged or cracked there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. 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.
For a longer-lasting option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used at home. You can buy this adhesive online or in the majority of auto repair stores. Follow the directions 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 getting any worse. You might want to consult with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can affect the appearance of your home and can lead to water stains, mold and other damages. It is time to call in a professional if you notice water stains or spots on the wall surrounding the window. In certain cases, it may be necessary to replace the window repair near me entirely.
Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to allow the water to drain away from the house.
If you find leaks, it’s crucial to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing for some time.
A quality caulking job will aid in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a tight seal. In certain situations, this may not be enough to stop leaks, especially if it is an ongoing issue.
If you notice that your window is leaking, it is important to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and tell you whether the leak is due to the window or if it’s an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also help you determine if it’s worth trying to repair the window or if it would make more sense to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to care for your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive problem. They can also pose a serious energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, such as glass, and forms fog. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When windows become foggy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on the window.
A common solution for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which could aid in eliminating some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and won’t stop future window fogging.
Another method is to drill holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective but it’s costly and only a cosmetic fix. It is not a replacement for the inert gas between the panes, and can leave stains and traces of rust behind.
There are several reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing may cause the crack and it’s possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows. However, in the event that the window has been in your home for ten or twenty years and is now hazy you’re probably beyond the scope of an insurance claim.
The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not have any problems with the seal being damaged. This will give clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other advantages like a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best way to be sure you purchase a new, quality window is to work with an experienced window contractor. A reputable contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can raise your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health problems within your home. The gaps or cracks that are around the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These gaps let cold air in and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to run your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This could be a costly problem and could require an experienced window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint drafty windows can help determine where a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any spots where the flame is bent or flickers. This will help you identify the source of the draft.
Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes are damaged, you’ll have to replace them. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and fitted properly. You will only reduce your energy bill if you consult with an expert window replacement service. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We’re happy for you to get an estimate at no cost! We’re looking forward to getting in touch with you!