How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. You can often repair your window by following a few simple steps.
Tape is the most efficient method to repair any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A cracked or broken glass window can result in more than just a unsightly appearance. It could also allow rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in your windows could be caused by a variety of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall hitting 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, also referred to as a pressure fracture, is recognized by its curving form that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. window repair near me of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is under the pressure of a high level.
If you have a window damaged or cracked There are a few short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out while you think of a long-term solution. For example, you can apply a plastic sheet to the crack in your window, such as a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This isn't very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.
If you want a more durable option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for vehicle windows but also works at home. You can purchase the adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and keep the crack from getting any worse. You might want to consult with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks it could ruin the appearance of your home, and also cause water stains, mold and other damages. It is time to call in an expert if you notice water stains or spots on the walls around the window. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is improper installation or the use of certain materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to drain the water away from the house.
If you do spot leaks, it's essential to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues it's likely that the leak has been emanating from the outside of your window for some time.
A good quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is essential to wash the area thoroughly to ensure a seal. In some cases it might not be enough to stop a leak, especially if it is a long-term issue.
If you find that your window is leaky, it is important to call a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and inform you if the leak is due to the window itself or if it is an issue with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also tell you if it's worth attempting to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to care for your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold surface, such as glass. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.
A common solution for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which will aid in eliminating some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not address the root issue of a broken window seal and won't stop future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and drill holes in your window to remove the trapped condensation. This is a viable option however it is costly and is only cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits.
There are a variety of reasons double-pane windows can begin to fog. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, especially older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to replace or repair defective thermal windows, but in the event that the window has been in your house for ten or twenty years and has become foggy you're probably past the point of a warranty claim.
The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clear, clean windows and a better energy efficiency. There are other advantages, including a warm home and lower cost of energy. The best way to be sure you purchase a new, quality window is to hire an experienced window installer. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, such as the increase in heating costs during winter and higher cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These gaps allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit your home, which increases the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood will expand and contract, which causes the seals to break down. Often, this can be 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 double or triple paned windows has been broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This can be an expensive issue to fix and could require the services of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Using the flame from candle to locate a drafty window can help in determining where a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This will help you identify the source of the air draft.
Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more complex problems with the seals on your windows or panes may require a complete replacement. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills throughout the year! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for free! We're looking forward to hearing from you!