Repair A Window: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety. Most of the time, you can get your window back in working order by doing a few easy steps.
The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.
Broken or cracked Panes
A cracked or broken glass window can cause more than just an unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If the window is double-paned this can be especially harmful as it damages the insulation the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks in your windows could be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture, can be identified by its curving shape that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is subject to the pressure of a high level.
If you have a window damaged or cracked, there are some short-term solutions to keep wind, water and bugs 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 will help keep your home warm and dry until you are able to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows on vehicles. It will work at home too. You can buy this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair is a bit more labor-intensive, however it can last for several years and will keep the crack from getting worse. You might want to consult with a professional depending on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can alter the appearance of your home and can lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near windows, it's likely time to contact an expert to assess and fix the issue. In some cases it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.
Leaks around windows are often caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to let the water drain away from the house.
It is essential to check both the interior and the exterior of your house if you discover the presence of a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these signs, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for some time.
A quality caulking job can resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a good seal. In some instances it might not suffice to stop a leak particularly if it's an ongoing issue.
If you notice that your window is leaky and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They'll be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you whether the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's an issue with the siding, roof or gutters or the wall itself. They can also advise you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it's better sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to care for your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, such as glass, forming fog. It can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
A common solution for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier close to the window, which will assist in removing some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another method is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake encased in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective however it is costly and is only cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes. It will leave behind stains and deposits.
There are a variety of reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal can be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed air/gas has degraded with time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten years and is now hazy it might be too late to make claims.
The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window won't have problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows and a better energy efficiency. window repairs has other advantages, including warmer homes and lower energy bills. Employing a window installer who is experienced will ensure that you receive an excellent window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, like higher heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps let cold air in and warm air out of your home, causing you to have to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep the temperature comfortable.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could cause drafts. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, causing the seals to fall apart. This is usually repaired by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.
Another reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This is an expensive issue to fix and could require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to identify an unheated or drafty window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should observe 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 cracked, you'll require replacement. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy-efficient and installed correctly. You will reduce your energy bills if you seek out an experienced window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to provide an estimate for you at no cost! We look forward to hearing from you!