How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, like children playing baseball or wind. It is possible to get your window working again by following a few simple steps.
Tape is the simplest method to fix 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 window isn't just unsightly - it can also create an air leak in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to get into. If your window is double-paned this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation that the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a variety of factors, including the weather and impacts. A fall that hits the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, may cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane is not damaged. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack and is identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter months, or when the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure.
There are some quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out the elements of wind, water, and bugs while you think of a permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window like a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This method isn't pretty, but it will help keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.
To make a long-lasting choice you can opt for glass adhesive, which is usually used for vehicle windows but can also be used at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in the majority of auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is a bit more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and will keep the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional, based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks it could ruin the appearance of your house, and also cause mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to call in an expert if you notice water spots or stains on the walls around the window. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the incorrect use of certain materials like building paper or housewrap 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.
If you do spot leaks, it's important to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Look for areas of rot in the wood that surrounds the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these problems, it is likely that the leak is originating from outside your window and has been leaking for a while.
A well-executed caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly first to ensure that the caulking is sealed. In some cases, this may not be enough to stop a leakage especially if it's a long-term issue.
Contact a reliable Dearborn company for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also advise you whether it's worth trying to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can give you advice about how to keep your windows in good condition.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unsightly problem. They can also pose a serious energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, such as glass, and forms fog. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, particularly in a home where humidity is high. If windows become hazy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks appearing on the window.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another option is to make holes in the window and then use a drain snake encased in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.
There are several reasons why double-pane windows can begin to fog. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded, or pressure washing may cause the window to break and it's possible that the gas/air seal has simply degraded over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, in the event that the window has been in your house for ten or twenty-five years and has become foggy it's probably to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.
The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. It also has other advantages, including an insulated home and lower cost of energy. A window contractor with experience will ensure that you receive a quality window. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, like the increase in heating costs during winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health problems within your home. window repairs or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps let warm air escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also create drafts. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, the wood can expand and contract, causing the seals to break down. Often, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This is costly to fix and may require the assistance of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.
Utilizing the flame of candles to pinpoint the drafty windows can be helpful in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. 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 determine the source of the draft.
Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will have to replace them. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that the windows you choose are energy efficient and correctly installed. You can only reduce your energy bill if you seek out an experienced window replacement service. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!