How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. Often you can get your window back into working order by doing just a few simple steps.
Tape is the easiest way to fix any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more robust.
Cracked or broken panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly - it can also create air leaks in your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to enter. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage as they can ruin the insulation provided by the glass, and make your furnace or AC work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of reasons, including weather conditions 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 kind of crack is known as a pressure crack. It is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of double pane windows. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is subject to excessive pressure.
If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the window's crack, such as a shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This solution doesn't look great but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to tackle a more permanent repair.
To make a long-lasting choice you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for windows in vehicles but can also be used at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This type of fix is more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to talk to an expert.
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. If you notice water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to a window, it is probably time to call an expert to look into and fix the issue. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are usually due to poor installation or the use of poor quality materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.
If you spot leaks, it's essential to examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Look for areas of rot in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these problems, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a long time.
A well-executed caulking job will assist in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage, especially if you have a problem that has been brewing for a long time.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn business for window repair if find that your window is leaking. They will be able complete a full assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window or if it is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They will also be able to tell you whether it's worth trying to fix the window or if it's better sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive issue. They could also be an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, forming fog. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not address the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.
Another option is to drill holes into the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gases that are between the panes. It will leave behind stains and deposits.
There are several reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the break and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in use for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it may be too late to file an claim.
The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not be affected by an ineffective seal. This will result in clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, as well as other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy costs. Employing a window installer with experience will ensure that you get an excellent window. A professional with experience will be able to provide the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, such as increased heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health problems in your home. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air out of your home, causing you to have to run your air conditioner or furnace to keep the temperature comfortable.
A draft in a window can be caused by issues with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing the seals to break down. In most cases, this can be remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another common reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This is a costly issue that requires a professional window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Utilizing the flame of candle to locate drafty windows can be helpful in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame, and note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the air draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help reduce drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes are damaged, you'll need to replace them. It's important to consult with an experienced window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and fitted correctly. You can only reduce your energy bills if you consult with an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a no-cost estimates! We're looking forward to hearing from you!