How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, like the wind or children playing baseball. You can usually restore your window by following a few simple steps.
The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape but are more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A damaged or cracked window isn't just ugly it can also cause an air leak inside your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to enter. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
Cracks can develop in your windows due to a range of factors including the weather and impact. A fall from an object hitting the glass, or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of your window to break, whereas the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be distinguished by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature variations, particularly in winter or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.
There are a few quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes that will keep out the elements of wind, water, and bugs while you plan a permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window for example, a shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.
You can also use the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal vehicle windows. It can be used at home as well. You can purchase the adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions 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. You may want to consult with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to mold, water stains, and other damage. It is time to call in an expert if you notice water stains or spots on the wall around the window. In some instances it could be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of inferior materials, like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't pitched downward to drain water away from the house.
It is crucial to examine both the interior and the exterior of your house when you discover the presence of a leak. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood surrounding the window as well as damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems it is likely the leak is originating from 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 a tight seal. In certain situations it may not suffice to stop leaks particularly if it's a long-term issue.
If you find that your window is leaky and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to call a trustworthy Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and tell you if the leak is caused by the window itself or if it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They can also advise you whether 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 assessed the damage, they can give you advice about how to keep your windows in good condition.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows aren't just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface such as glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. If windows become hazy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which could help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the underlying problem of a damaged window seal and won't prevent further fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake encased in pantyhose to clean out the condensate that is trapped. This can be very effective, but it is expensive and only a cosmetic fix. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes, and it will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are many reasons why double-pane windows can begin to get a little cloudy. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded or pressure washing may cause the break and it's possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and is now hazy it may be too late to make an claim.
The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new, high-quality window that will not be affected by a faulty seal. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. It also has other advantages, including warmer homes and lower energy bills. A window contractor with experience will ensure you get a quality window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can raise your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health issues within your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the window panes and frame. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window can be caused by issues with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is particularly common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, causing seals to fail. This can often be corrected by re-caulking seals or re-caulking them.
A common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This is an expensive issue to fix and may require the services of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.
Utilizing the flame of candle to locate drafty windows can help in determining the source of a cold air leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should observe any places where the flame moves or bends. This can help you determine the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll have to replace them. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure that the windows you choose are energy-efficient and installed correctly. You will reduce your energy bill if you seek out an experienced window replacement company. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide a free estimate! We look forward hearing from you!