How to Repair a Window
It could be from baseball players or wind in the night, windows can break due to a variety. Most of the time you can get your window back into working order by doing some simple steps.
Tape is the easiest way to repair any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly but it could also cause an air leak inside your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass and cause your AC or furnace work more hard to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows could be caused by a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture, can be identified by its curved shape that resembles an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass can cause cracks like these.
There are some quick fixes for cracked or broken windows to block wind, water and insects while you consider a long-term solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic covering to the window's crack for example, a piece of plastic shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal vehicle windows. It can be used at home as well. You can buy this online or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort, but can last several years and stop the crack from getting any worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional depending on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks it can ruin the appearance of your home, and can cause water stains, mold, and other damages. It is time to contact a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the wall surrounding the 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 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 pitched downward to drain water away from the house.
If you find a leak, it is crucial to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Examine for signs of rot in the wood surrounding the window as well as damp walls and sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these problems, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been leaking for a while.
A high-quality caulking job will help to fix several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In some cases it may not suffice to stop leaks especially if it's an ongoing issue.
Contact a reliable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you find that your window is leaking. They will be able complete a full assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also tell you whether it's worth trying to fix the window or if it's more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs they'll be able to provide tips on how to take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold surface such as glass. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When window repair become foggy, they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (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 help to remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the root cause of a broken window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to make holes in the window and then use a drain snake wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is effective. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes. It will leave stains and traces of rust behind.
There are several reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. 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, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective thermal windows, but if the window has been in your home for more than ten or twenty years and has become foggy you're probably past the point of a warranty claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not have problems with a faulty sealing. This will provide clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and many other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy costs. Working with a window contractor who is skilled will ensure that you get an excellent window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health problems in your home. The gaps or cracks 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.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could cause drafts. This is especially common with older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. Most of the time, this is repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This is a costly issue that requires an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to find a drafty or cold window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any spots where the flame bends or flickers. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help to remove drafts. However, more serious problems with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require a complete replacement. Get in touch with a window replacement expert to ensure that the windows you choose are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to be sure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate for free! We look forward getting in touch with you!