How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. It is possible to get your window working again by following a couple of simple steps.
The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A cracked or broken window isn’t just unsightly it can also cause an air leak in your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to enter. If your window is double-paned, it can be extremely damaging as it ruins the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a variety of factors, including weather conditions and impact. A fall from an object striking the glass or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, whereas the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature variations, particularly in winter or pressure that is too high on the glass can lead to these types of cracks.
If you have a window that is cracked or broken, there are some short-term solutions to keep wind, Window Repairs water and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn’t the most attractive solution however it will keep your home dry and warm until you are able to tackle a more permanent repair.
For a longer-lasting option you can opt for glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work in your home. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of repair requires more work but it can last for years and keep the crack from getting any more severe. 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 can damage the appearance of your house, and cause water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the wall surrounding the window. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the use of certain materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn’t been angled downward to drain the water away from the home.
If you find leaks, it’s important to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Look for areas of rot in the wood surrounding the window, damp walls and sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these problems, it’s likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window repairs near me for some time.
A good caulking job can help to resolve many minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure that the caulking is sealed. It may not be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you have a problem that has been brewing for a long time.
If you discover that your window is leaked, it is important to call a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to provide a full assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also be able to tell you if it’s worth trying to fix the window, or if it’s more sense to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they’ll provide you with advice on how to maintain your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface like glass. This happens naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. When windows become foggy they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not address the underlying issue of a broken seal, and won’t stop future window fogging.
Another option is to drill holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. This is a viable option, but it is expensive and is only a cosmetic fix. It won’t replace the gas in between the panes, and will still leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a few reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal could 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.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten years and is now hazy it may be too late to make claims.
The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window won’t have problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows and better energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers other advantages, including a warm home and lower energy costs. Working with a window contractor who is skilled will ensure you get the best window. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty can cause serious issues, including increased heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary 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 cause drafts. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing seals to break down. This is usually corrected by re-caulking seals or re-caulking them.
The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue that requires a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint drafty windows can be helpful 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 areas that the flame flickers or bends. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help reduce drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will require replacement. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to be sure that you’ll be saving money on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We’re happy to give you an estimate at no cost! We look forward getting in touch with you!