How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows are broken due to a variety of reasons. In most cases, you can get your window back into functioning condition by following just a few simple steps.
The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape, but is more robust.
Cracked or Broken Panes
A broken or cracked glass window can result in more than just an unsightly appearance. It could also let rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned, this can be especially harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature variations, particularly in winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks like these.
There are several quick solutions for broken or cracked windows to block wind, water, and bugs while you plan a 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 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 will work at home too. You can purchase it online or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is a little more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you may want to consult a professional.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can affect the appearance of your home. It can also lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near a window, it is likely that you should call a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the incorrect use of materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to let the water drain away from the house.
It is important to inspect both the interior and exterior of your house if you spot an issue with water. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these signs, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been running for some time.
A well-executed caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking by yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a solid seal. In certain situations it may not be enough to stop a leak particularly if it's a long-term issue.
Contact a reputable Dearborn business for window repair if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able complete an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also advise you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and made the repairs, they'll be able provide tips on how to care for your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive issue. They can also pose an energy efficiency problem that is serious. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold surface, such as glass. window repair near me happens naturally when warm, humid air from the home is paired with cold air. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulation 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 next to the window. This will help remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not address the underlying issue of a broken seal, and won't stop future window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in a pantyhose and then drill holes into your window to remove the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is effective. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes and will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are several reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing could cause the break and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded over time, especially in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, when the window is in your home for ten or twenty-five years and is now foggy, it's likely beyond the scope of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, top-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best way to make sure you purchase an excellent window is to work with an experienced window contractor. The right contractor will ensure the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can raise your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health problems within your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These gaps allow warm air to escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also cause a draft. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. This is usually corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This could be a costly issue to fix and could require the assistance of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to identify a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any areas that the flame flickers or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes have damaged, you'll need to replace them. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement service to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. This is the only way to know that you'll save on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for free! We look forward to getting in touch with you!