How to Repair a Window
Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. Most of the time, you can get your window back in good working order by following some simple steps.
The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but are more durable.
Cracked or Broken Panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just unattractive - it can also create an air leak inside your home, allowing bugs, rain and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage because they can degrade the insulation offered by the glass, and make your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain a comfortable home temperature.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a variety of reasons, including the weather and impact. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack, also known as a pressure fracture is recognized by its curving form that is similar to an hourglass.
window repairs near me can also form between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months, or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to these types of cracks.
If you have a window pane damaged or cracked there are a few quick fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out until you work on a longer-term solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't the most attractive solution, but it will help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to tackle a more permanent repair.
If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for vehicle windows but also works at home. You can buy this online or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of repair will require more effort but it can last for years and stop the crack from becoming more severe. It is recommended to speak with a professional based on the extent of the crack on your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can damage the appearance of your home, and can cause water stains, mold, and other damage. If you spot water spots or stains on the wall near the window, it's probably time to call an expert to assess and fix the issue. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of poor quality materials like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not pitched downward to drain water away from the house.
If you spot leaks, it's crucial to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for signs of rot in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these problems it is likely the leak originates outside your window and has been leaking for a while.
A well-executed caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly first to ensure that the caulking is sealed. In some cases it might not suffice to stop a leakage particularly if it's an ongoing issue.
If you discover that your window is leaking and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They will be able complete an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also help you determine if it's worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can give you advice about how to maintain your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive problem. They could also be an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface such as glass. This can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, particularly in homes where humidity is high. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier near the window, which will aid in eliminating some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake encased in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave stains and traces of rust behind.
There are several reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal from sanding around the frames or pressure washing could cause the break and it's possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to replace or repair defective thermal windows, but if the window is in your home for ten or twenty years and is now foggy you're probably past the point of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. There are other advantages, including a warm home and lower energy costs. The best method to make sure you have an excellent window is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window which is sturdy and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major issues, including higher heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These gaps let warm air escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also cause a draft. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, causing the seals to fall apart. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue to fix and may require the services of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint the drafty windows can help in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you find the source of the air draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help eliminate some drafts. However, more complex issues with the seals on your windows or panes may need a complete replacement. It is essential to consult an experienced window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and installed correctly. You will only reduce your energy bills if you contact an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for free! We're looking forward getting in touch with you!