How to Repair a Window
Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. You can often repair your window by following a couple of 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 cracked or broken window isn't just ugly it can also cause air leaks in your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to get into. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in your windows can be caused by a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall from an object hitting the glass, or even a change in pressure within your home can cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture can be identified by its curving shape that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly in winter or pressure that is too high on the glass may cause cracks of this kind.
If you have a window that is cracked or broken, there are some short-term solutions to keep water, wind and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack, such as an insulated shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows in vehicles. It will work at home too. You can buy this online or at many auto maintenance stores, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort, but can last several years and stop the crack from getting worse. Depending on the condition of your window you might want to talk to a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can alter the appearance of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damages. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to the window, it's probably time to call an expert to look into and repair the problem. In certain cases, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the use of materials such as building paper or housewrap instead of flashing that is properly designed. 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 do spot leaks, it is essential to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Check for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these signs, it is likely that the leak is originating from outside your window and has been running for a while.
A good quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage especially if you have a problem that's been brewing for a while.
If you find that your window is leaky then it is crucial to contact a reputable Dearborn window repair service. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also advise you if it's worth attempting to fix the window, or if it makes more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and made the repairs, they'll be able provide you with suggestions on how to take care of your windows in the future.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are not simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold surface like glass. This can occur naturally when warm, humid air in the home meets cold air. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
A common solution for foggy windows is to install a dehumidifier close to the window, which could help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose and make holes in your window to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is merely cosmetically correct. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes, and it will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are several reasons why a double-pane window may begin to get a little cloudy. The seal could be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and has become hazy, it may be too late to make an claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows and a better energy efficiency. Additionally, window repairs near me offers other advantages, including a warm home and lower energy bills. The best way to be sure you get the best quality windows is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health problems in your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes can create drafts. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window could be caused by issues with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is most common with older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. In most cases, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This can be a costly issue to fix and could require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to identify a drafty or cold window. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious issues with your window seals or panes will likely require a full replacement. Consult with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward hearing from you!