How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, including wind or kids playing baseball. You can usually get your window working again by following a few easy steps.
The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more durable.
Cracked or broken Panes
A cracked or broken glass window can cause more simply a sloppy appearance. It could also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of factors including the weather and impact. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, whereas the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane windows. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure.
There are some quick solutions for broken or cracked windows to block the elements of wind, water, and bugs while you plan a permanent solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to make a permanent repair.
For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive that is typically used for windows in vehicles but also works in your home. You can buy this online or at most auto repair shops and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of fix is a little more labor intensive, but it will last for a few years and stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your house, and cause mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you notice water stains or spots on the wall surrounding the window. In certain cases, it might be necessary for the window to be replaced.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the use of certain materials like housewrap or building paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not inclined downwards to drain water away from the home.
If you spot a leak, it is crucial to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Look for areas of rot in the wood around 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 leaking for some time.
A quality caulking job can help resolve many minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a good seal. This might not be enough to stop the leak, especially if you have an issue that has been brewing for a long time.
Contact a reliable Dearborn company for window repair if find that your window is leaking. They'll complete a full evaluation and inform you if the leak is due to the window itself or if it's an issue with the siding, roof, gutters or wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it's worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it's better to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they will provide you with advice on how to care for your windows.
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Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface like glass. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in a home 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 can also result in calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on the window.
A common solution for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier near the window, which will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.
Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the condensate that is trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons why a window with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal from sanding around the frames or pressure washing could cause the crack, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, if the window has been in your house for ten or twenty years and is now hazy you're probably beyond the scope of a warranty claim.
The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not have any problems with an ineffective seal. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. It also has other advantages, including an insulated home and lower energy bills. The best method to make sure you get a new, quality window is to partner with an experienced window installer. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes can create drafts. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a windows can be caused by issues with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is especially common with older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is usually fixed by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This could be a costly issue and may require an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to identify an unheated or drafty window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should take note of any areas that the flame is bent or flickers. This will help you determine the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and installing weather stripping may help reduce drafts. However, more serious issues with the seals on your windows or panes could require a complete replacement. Talk to an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to know that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to give you a a free estimate! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!