How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, like wind or kids playing baseball. You can often restore your window by following 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 durable.
Broken or cracked Panes
A damaged or cracked window isn't just unattractive but it could also cause air leaks in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to get into. If your window is double-paned, this could be particularly detrimental as it destroys the insulation that the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of factors including the weather and impacts. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, can be recognized by its curving form that looks like an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass may cause cracks of this kind.
There are a few quick fixes for broken or cracked windows to block wind, water and bugs until you think of a permanent solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't the most attractive solution but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows in vehicles. It can be used at home as well. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is a bit more labor intensive, but it will last for a few years and will prevent the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional, based on the extent of the crack on your window.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can affect the appearance of your home. It can also lead to mold, water stains and other damages. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near windows, it's likely time to contact an expert to look into and repair the problem. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.
The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is improper installation or the incorrect use of materials such as housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the house.
If you do spot leaks, it is important to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for signs of rot in the wood that surrounds the window as well as damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these signs, it's likely that the leak is emanating from the outside of your window for some time.
A quality caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a tight seal. In some cases it might not suffice to stop a leakage, especially if it is a long-term issue.
If you discover that your window is leaky then it is crucial to call a reputable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able complete an exhaustive assessment 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 determine if it is worth trying to repair the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs they will be able to provide suggestions on how to take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows aren't just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface like glass. It can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a home where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not address the root issue of a broken window seal and won't prevent further fogging.
Another option is to drill holes in the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensate that is trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is efficient. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are many reasons why windows with double panes can begin to get a little cloudy. Damage to the seal from sanding around the frames or pressure washing may cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and is now hazy it could be too late to make an claim.
The best option to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a brand new, high-quality window that will not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy costs. The best way to be sure you get a new, quality window is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can raise your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health problems within your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These cracks let cold air in and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to run your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also cause a draft. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. This is usually repaired by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue and may require an experienced window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Utilizing the flame of candles to pinpoint drafty windows can be helpful in determining the source of a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you determine the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more advanced problems with your window seals or panes could require a complete replacement. It is essential to consult an experienced window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted 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 at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!