How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows break for a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can get your window back into good working order by following just a few simple steps.
Tape is the simplest method to repair any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but are more durable.
Cracked or broken Panes
A cracked or broken glass window can cause more just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage as they can ruin the insulation created by the glass and make your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
Cracks in your windows can result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane remains intact. This kind 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 inside and outside layers of a double-pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter, or if the glass is under the pressure of a high level.
If you have a window that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term solutions to keep water, wind and window repair insects out while you work on a longer-term solution. For example, you can apply a plastic sheet to the window’s crack, such as a shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This method isn’t particularly attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford a more permanent fix.
For a longer-lasting option, you can use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works in your home. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is a little more labor-intensive, but it will last for a few years and will keep the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional depending on the degree of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can damage 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 entirely.
Leaks around windows are typically caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn’t inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.
It is important to inspect both the interior and exterior of your house if you spot the presence of a leak. Examine for decayed wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these signs, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing for a while.
A good quality caulking job can help resolve many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a tight seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you have a problem that’s been going on for a while.
If you discover that your window is leaking, it is important to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to provide a full assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also help you decide if it is worth attempting to repair the window or if it would make more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs, they’ll be able provide suggestions on how to care for your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows aren’t simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface, like glass. It can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in a home where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on windows.
A common solution for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier near the window, which could help remove some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this does not address the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won’t stop future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. It’s a costly cosmetic solution that is effective. It doesn’t replace the inert gas between the panes and will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are a few reasons why windows with double panes may fog. The seal can be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. 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 is in your home for ten or twenty-five years and is now foggy, it’s likely beyond the scope of a warranty claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window won’t have issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. Employing a window installer who is experienced will ensure you get the best window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can increase your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes can create drafts. These gaps let cold air in and warm air to leave your home, which increases the need to run your air conditioner or furnace to keep the temperature comfortable.
A draft in a window could be caused by issues with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, causing the seals to fail. This is usually fixed by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This is costly to fix and could require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other areas in the area.
The flame of a candle could be used to identify a drafty or cold 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 can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will need to replace them. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. You will save money on your energy bill if seek out an experienced window repair replacement company. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We’re happy to give you a an estimate for free! We look forward hearing from you!