How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. Often you can fix your window back in functioning condition by following just a few simple steps.
The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but are more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly - it can also create an air leak in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to enter. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage as they can ruin the insulation provided by the glass, and make your furnace or AC work more hard to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of factors including the weather and impacts. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass, or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, whereas the inner pane remains in place. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be distinguished by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass may cause these types of cracks.
There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out wind, water, and bugs while you consider a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.
For a longer-lasting option, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for windows in vehicles but also works at home. You can purchase the adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort, but can last several years and prevent the crack from getting any more severe. It is recommended to speak with a professional based on the degree of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home. It can also lead to water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to contact an expert if you spot water spots or stains on the wall surrounding a window. In some cases it may be required that the window be replaced.
The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is poor installation or the incorrect use of materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the house.
It is crucial to examine both the interior and the exterior of your house when you spot the presence of a leak. Examine for decayed wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these problems it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for some time.
A good caulking job can assist in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a tight seal. In certain situations, this may not suffice to stop leaks, especially if it is an ongoing issue.
Contact a reliable Dearborn business for window repair if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and tell you if the leak is due to the window itself or whether it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also be able to tell you whether it's worth trying to repair the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the repairs, they'll be able to give you suggestions on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are not simply ugly, they could 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 cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the underlying problem of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.
Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhose to clean out the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective but it's costly and is merely cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.
There are several reasons why double-pane windows can start to fog. The seal may be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in 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 might be too late to make claims.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A brand 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 other benefits, such as a warm home and lower cost of energy. The best way to make sure you purchase a new, quality window is to work with an experienced window contractor. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window which is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major issues, including the increase in heating costs during winter and increased cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The gaps or cracks that are around the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These gaps allow warm air to escape from your home, while allowing cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also cause a draft. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes the wood will expand and contract, causing the seals to fall apart. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows is broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be an expensive issue to fix and could require the help of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.
The flame of a candle could be used to locate a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any areas that the flame moves or bends. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping may help eliminate some drafts. However, more complex issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely need a complete replacement. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to know that you'll save on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for you at no cost! We look forward to hearing from you!