How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, like children playing baseball or wind. You can often repair your window by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the easiest way to repair any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more robust.
Broken or cracked panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just unattractive - it can also create an air leak inside your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to get into. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage as they can degrade the insulation offered by the glass, and make your furnace or air conditioner work harder to maintain a a comfortable home temperature.
Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall hitting the glass, or 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 crack, can be identified by its curved shape that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane windows. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter, or if the glass is subject to the pressure of a high level.
If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term solutions to keep wind, water and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the window's crack, such as a shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This solution is not very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.
You can also use the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows on vehicles. It can be used at home too. You can purchase the adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair is a bit more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and will keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to talk to a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks it can damage the appearance of your home, and can cause water stains, mold, and other damages. If you notice water spots or stains on the wall near a window, it is likely time to contact an expert to look into and fix the issue. In certain cases, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of low-quality materials, such as construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to allow the water to drain away from the house.
If you do spot leaks, it is important to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these signs, it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for a while.
A high-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 that the caulking is properly sealed. It may not be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you have a problem that's been brewing for a while.
Contact a reliable Dearborn business to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you whether the leak is due to the window itself or if it's an issue with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also advise you whether it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's better sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the repairs they'll be able provide tips on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive problem. They can also pose an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, such as glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on windows.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the root issue of a broken window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another method is to wrap a drain-snake in a pantyhose and then drill holes into your window to release the condensate that is trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be effective. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are several reasons why a double-pane window may start to fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded or pressure washing could cause the break, and it is possible that the gas/air seal has degraded over time, especially in older homes.
double glazing Mile End of manufacturers offer a guarantee to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, when the window is in your home for ten or twenty years and has become foggy it's probably past the point of a warranty claim.
The best option to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best way to make sure you get an excellent window is to partner with an experienced window installer. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are accurate and install a window which is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues within your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and 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 harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is often repaired by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.
A common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This is a costly issue that requires professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to identify a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any places where the flame moves or bends. This can help you find the source of the draft.
Certain 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 are damaged, you'll require replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted properly. This is the only way to be sure 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 to provide an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!