How to Repair a Window
Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, like children playing baseball or wind. You can usually restore your window by following a few easy steps.
The simplest solution is to use 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 damaged or cracked glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage, as they can ruin the insulation offered by the glass and make your furnace or air conditioner work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.
Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes within your home, may cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane windows. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can cause these types of cracks.
If you have a window damaged or cracked there are a few quick fixes to help keep wind, water and insects out while you work on a longer-term solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty, but it will help keep your home dry and warm until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows on vehicles. It can be used at home too. You can buy the adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Then, follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more effort, but can last several years and stop the crack from getting worse. Depending on the condition of your window you may want to consult an expert.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks it can ruin the appearance of your home, and also cause water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to contact a professional if you notice spots or water stains on the walls around a window. In certain cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are usually caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the house.
It is important to inspect both the interior and exterior of your home if you discover an issue with water. Look for areas of rot in the wood that surrounds the window as well as damp walls and sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these issues it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been flowing for some time.
A good quality caulking job can help resolve many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a tight seal. In some cases it might not be enough to stop a leak, especially if it is a long-term issue.
Contact a reliable Dearborn company for window repair if find that your window is leaking. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's a problem with the siding, roof, gutters or wall itself. They will also be able to tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can provide advice on how to maintain your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive issue. They can also pose an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface such as glass. This happens naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
The most common method for fogging windows is to put a dehumidifier near the window, which can assist in removing some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not address the root cause of a broken window seal and won't prevent further fogging.
Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a hose and make holes in your window to release the condensate that is trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is efficient. It does not replace the inert gases between the panes, and can leave stains and deposits behind.
There are a few reasons why windows with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded or pressure washing can cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten years and is now foggy it could be too late to make a claim.
The best way to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new high-quality, durable window that will not be affected by a faulty seal. This will result in clean, clear windows and a better energy efficiency. It also has other benefits, such as a warm home and lower energy bills. Employing a window installer with experience will ensure you get the best window. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is sturdy and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can increase your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes can create drafts. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.
Problems 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. Over time, wood may expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Often, this can be repaired 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 lets the argon escape. This could be an expensive issue to fix and could require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.
Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate drafty windows can help in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. Move window repairs around the edges of the window frame and note any spots where 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 eliminate some drafts. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have damaged, you'll require replacement. Talk to an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to be sure 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 give you an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!