How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows break due to a variety of reasons. It is possible to get your window working again by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the most efficient method to repair any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A broken or cracked glass window can cause more simply a sloppy appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a variety of factors including the weather and impact. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack is called a pressure crack. It is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter months, or when the glass is subject to an excess amount of pressure.
There are some quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes to keep out rain, wind, and bugs while you consider a long-term solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack, such as an insulated shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.
If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive that is typically used for windows in vehicles but will also work at home. You can purchase this on the internet or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort but it can last for years and stop the crack from getting any more severe. Depending on the condition of your window you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home. It can also lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to windows, it's likely that you should call an expert to look into and fix the issue. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.
The most frequent reason for 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 inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.
It is essential to check both the inside and exterior of your home if you notice the presence of a leak. Examine for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these signs it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for some time.
A good quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a tight seal. In some instances, this may not suffice to stop a leakage, especially if it is a long-term issue.
Contact a reliable Dearborn company for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They'll complete a full evaluation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it's a problem with the siding, roof or gutters or the wall itself. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the repairs, they'll be able 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 issue. They can also pose an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, like glass, to form fog. This happens naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, especially in a home where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.
A common solution for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier close to the window, which could assist in removing some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhoses to clear the trapped condensation. This is a viable option however it is costly and is merely a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.
There are many reasons why a double-pane window may start to fog. Damage to the seal from sanding around the frames or pressure washing can cause the crack and it's possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has simply degraded over time, especially in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, if the window has been in your home for ten or twenty-five years and is now foggy it's probably past the point of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy costs. The best way to be sure you get the best quality windows is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, such as increased heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues within your home. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These gaps allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your AC or furnace to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, the wood can expand and contract, which causes the seals to fall apart. Often, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This could be 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 identify a drafty or cold window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have damaged, you'll require 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 know 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. We're happy to provide an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!