How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, like wind or kids playing baseball. You can often restore your window 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 damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow wind, rain and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can destroy the insulation provided by the glass and cause your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
Cracks can develop in your windows due to a variety of factors, including weather conditions and impact. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break, whereas the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack is called 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 windows. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature variations especially in winter months, or when the glass is placed under the pressure of a high level.
If you have a window pane damaged or cracked, there are some short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack, such as an insulated shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford an even more permanent fix.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows on vehicles. It can be used at home too. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and stop the crack from getting any worse. Depending on the condition of your window you might want to talk to an expert.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can damage the appearance of your home, and can cause water stains, mold, and other damage. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near windows, it's likely that you should call an expert to look into and fix the issue. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of low-quality materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. 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.
If you spot leaks, it is crucial to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood surrounding the window or sills, damp walls and walls, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window for a long time.
A high-quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly to ensure that the caulking is sealed. This may not always be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you've got a problem that has been going on for a long time.
Contact a reputable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They'll perform a thorough evaluation and inform you if the leak is due to the window itself or whether it is an issue with the siding, roof, gutters or wall itself. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs, they'll be able to provide you with advice on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows aren't simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface such as glass. It can happen naturally when warm, humid air in the home meets cold air. When windows become cloudy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier near the window, which could aid in eliminating some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not address the underlying problem of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and drill holes in your window to remove the condensation that has been trapped. This can be very effective, but it is expensive and only a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the inert gases that are between the panes, and can leave stains and traces of rust behind.
There are several reasons why windows with double panes can become hazy. The seal may be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has degraded over time, especially older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten years and is now hazy it could be too late to make an claim.
The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a brand new, high-quality window that will not be affected by a faulty seal. This will result in clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best method to make sure you get a new, quality window is to partner with an experienced window contractor. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are accurate and will install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can raise your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health problems in your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit your home, which increases the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also cause a draft. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This can often be corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly issue and may require an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Utilizing the flame of candle to locate the drafty windows can be helpful in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping may help eliminate some drafts. However, more advanced problems with your window seals or panes will likely require a full replacement. window repair to consult with an expert window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted properly. You will only reduce your energy bill if you consult with an expert window replacement company. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!