How to Repair a Window
Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including wind or kids playing baseball. Often you can fix your window back into functioning condition by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the simplest method to repair any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more durable.
Broken or cracked Panes
A cracked or broken glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It could also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of factors including weather conditions and impact. A fall that hits the glass, or pressure changes within your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter months, or when the glass is under an excess amount of pressure.
If you have a window that is cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. 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.
You can also use the glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows on vehicles. It works at home as well. You can purchase this adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair is a little more labor-intensive, but it will last for a few years and can stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to talk to a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you notice water spots or stains on the wall near windows, it's likely that you should call an expert to look into and repair the problem. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.
Leaks around windows are often caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, such as construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not pitched downward to drain water away from the house.
If you spot leaks, it is important to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Look for areas of rot in the wood around the window or sills, damp walls and walls as well as paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these issues it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been leaking for some time.
A good caulking job can aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. In some cases it may not suffice to stop a leak, especially if it is an ongoing issue.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn business to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able complete an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also help you decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it's better to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs, they'll be able to give you advice on how to take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just a visual problem. They could also be an energy efficiency problem that is serious. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold surface, like glass. This happens naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on windows.
Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help to remove some of that 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 method is to wrap a drain-snake in pantyhose and drill holes in your window to remove the condensate that is trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is efficient. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes, and it will leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons why a window with double panes may fog. The seal can be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and has become hazy, it might be too late to file an claim.
The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from issues with the seal being defective. This will provide clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best way to be sure you purchase a new, quality window is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can raise your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues within your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes can cause drafts. These cracks allow warm air to escape from your home, while allowing cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.
Golders Green window repairs in a window can be caused by issues with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is usually repaired by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly problem and could require professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate a drafty window can help determine where a cold air leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should observe any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This will help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help to remove drafts. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll need to replace them. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed properly. You will save money on your energy bill if consult with an expert 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 for you at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!