How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can get your window back in good working order by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the easiest way to fix any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more robust.
Cracked or broken panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just ugly it can also cause air leaks in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to get into. If the window is double-paned this can be especially harmful as it damages the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in your windows can result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass, or simply pressure changes in your home can cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane window. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter, or if the glass is subject to excessive pressure.
There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out rain, wind and insects while you plan a permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window like a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford a more permanent fix.
For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive, which is usually used for windows in vehicles but can also be used in your home. You can purchase the adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Then, follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor intensive, but it can last for many years and can prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your home and also cause water stains, mold, and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to a window, it is likely time to contact an expert to look into and fix the issue. In some instances it could be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials, such as construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't 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 home. Look for rotted wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these problems, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for a long time.
A good quality caulking job will help to fix several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a good seal. In some instances, this may not be enough to stop a leak especially if it's a long-term issue.
If you find that your window is leaking then it is crucial to contact a reputable Dearborn window repair service. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and tell you if the leak is due to the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also help you determine if it is worth attempting to repair the window or whether it is more sensible to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll give you advice about how to care for your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows aren't just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, forming fog. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When windows become cloudy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on the window.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a damaged seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another option is to use a drain-snake wrapped in pantyhose and make holes in your window to eliminate the condensation that has been trapped. This is a viable option however it is costly and is merely an aesthetic fix. It is not a replacement for the inert gases that are between the panes. It will leave stains and deposits behind.
There are many reasons why double-pane windows can begin to fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded, or pressure washing may cause the break, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but in the event that the window has been in your home for ten or twenty-five years and has become foggy you're probably to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.
The most effective way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will give clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. Employing a window installer who is skilled will ensure that you receive the best window. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major issues, including the increase in heating costs during winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These cracks let warm air escape your home, and cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can cause drafts. window repairs Letchworth is common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, the wood can expand and contract, which causes the seals to break down. This is usually corrected by re-caulking seals or replacing them.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue to fix and could require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to locate a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should observe any areas that the flame flickers or bends. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help to reduce drafts. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll have to replace them. Talk to an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year long! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!