How to Repair a Window
It could be from baseball players or the wind blowing through the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can fix your window back in functioning condition by following a few easy 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 cracked or broken glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If the 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 form in your windows due to a range of reasons, including the weather and impacts. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break, while the inner pane remains in place. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and is identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly in winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to these types of cracks.
If you have a window that has cracked or broken there are a few quick solutions to keep water, wind and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can use a piece cut to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows in vehicles. It will work at home as well. You can purchase this adhesive online or in the majority of auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This type of fix is a little more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can ruin the appearance of your home, and cause mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you spot water stains or spots on the wall surrounding a window. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the use of materials like housewrap or building paper 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 do spot leaks, it is crucial to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Look for rotted wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these issues it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a long time.
A quality caulking job will help to resolve many small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is essential to wash the area thoroughly to ensure a tight seal. In some instances, this may not suffice to stop a leak particularly if it's a long-term issue.
Contact a reputable Dearborn company to repair your window if you find that your window is leaking. They can provide an exhaustive assessment and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also assist you to decide if it is worth attempting to repair the window or if it's better to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can give you advice about how to maintain your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just a visual problem. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, to form fog. This happens naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, particularly in homes where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on the window.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the underlying problem of a broken window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another option is to wrap a drain-snake in a pantyhose and then drill holes in your window to eliminate the condensate that is trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that is effective. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.
There are a variety of reasons a double-pane window may begin to fog. The seal could be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, especially 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 more than ten or twenty years and has become hazy, it could be too late for an claim.
The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not have any problems with an ineffective seal. This will result in clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best way to be sure you purchase the best quality windows is to hire an experienced window installer. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be a serious issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks allow warm air to escape from your home, while allowing cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing the seals to fail. This can often be repaired by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has been broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is a costly problem and could require a professional window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to locate the cold or drafty windows. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the draft.
Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will require replacement. It's important to consult with an experienced window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and fitted properly. This is the only way to be sure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. window repairs near me are happy to provide no-cost estimates! We look forward getting in touch with you!