How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, like wind or kids playing baseball. Often you can get your window back in working order by doing just a few simple steps.
The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more robust.
Cracked or Broken Panes
A broken or cracked glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage as they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass and cause your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable home temperature.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a variety of factors, including the weather and impact. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass, or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter months, or when the glass is under the pressure of a high level.
There are a few quick fixes for broken or cracked windows to block the elements of wind, water and bugs until you think of a permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window for example, a shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This method isn't pretty, but it will 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 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 on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort however it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting any more severe. Depending on the condition of your window you might want to speak with a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to mold, water stains, and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the wall around the window. In certain cases, it might be necessary for the window to be replaced.
Leaks around windows are often caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality 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 essential to check both the inside and exterior of your home if you discover the presence of a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these problems it's likely that the leak has been emanating from the outside of your window for a while.
A good quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a good seal. In some cases it might not suffice to stop a leakage especially if it's a long-term issue.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn firm for window repair if you find that your window is leaky. They'll complete a full evaluation and inform you whether the leak is caused by the window itself or if it's an issue with the siding, roof, gutters or wall itself. They can also advise you if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it's better sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they will give you advice about how to maintain your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows aren't just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface such as glass. This can occur naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a broken seal, and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to make holes in the window and then use a drain snake wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is efficient. It won't replace the gas in between the panes, and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are several reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. The seal can be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded with time, especially older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in use for more than ten years and is now hazy it might be too late to make claims.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower energy costs. Employing a window installer with experience will ensure that you receive the best window. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and more expensive 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 around the frame and window panes. These gaps allow warm air to escape your home and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, the wood can expand and contract, causing the seals to fall apart. window repairs is often fixed by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly problem and could require professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint the drafty windows can help determine the location where a cold leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any places where the flame moves or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help to reduce drafts. However, more advanced problems with the seals on your windows or panes could require a complete replacement. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that the windows you choose are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to be sure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year long! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a a free estimate! We look forward getting in touch with you!