Repair A Window: The Good The Bad And The Ugly
How to Repair a Window
It could be from baseball players or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. In most cases, you can get your window back into functioning condition by following a few easy steps.
The most straightforward 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 window isn't just unattractive it can also cause an air leak in your home, allowing bugs, rain and wind to get into. If your window is double-paned this can be especially harmful as it damages the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in windows can be caused by a variety of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass, or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, while the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences particularly in winter, or if the glass is under an excess amount of pressure.
If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken, there are some short-term solutions to keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. For instance, 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 isn't the most attractive solution however it will keep your home warm and dry until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows in vehicles. It works at home too. You can buy the adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Then, follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This type of fix is a little more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and will keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to talk to an expert.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to mold, water stains and other damages. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near a window, it is probably time to call an expert to look into and repair the problem. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or improper use of materials such as housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downwards to drain the water away from the home.
If you find a leak, 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 around the window, damp walls and sills as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems, it is likely that the leak is coming from outside your window and has been flowing for some time.
A quality caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is essential to wash the area thoroughly to ensure a tight seal. In certain situations it might not suffice to stop a leak particularly if it's a long-term issue.
Contact a reliable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you find that your window is leaking. They'll complete a full evaluation and tell you if the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's a problem with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They will also be able to tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's better sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs they will be able to provide you with advice on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just a visual issue. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface such as glass. This can occur naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When windows become foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
The most common method for fogging windows is to install a dehumidifier near the window, which could assist in removing some of the moisture in the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.
Another option is to use a drain snake wrapped in a hose and make holes in your window to remove the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is effective. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a few reasons why windows that has double glazed window repairs near me panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded, or pressure washing could cause the break and it's possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has degraded over time, particularly 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 more than ten or twenty years and is now foggy you're probably beyond the scope of a warranty claim.
The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy costs. 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 proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and higher 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 cracks let warm air 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 cause drafts. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This can be an expensive issue and may require a professional window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to find the cold or drafty windows. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame, and note any areas where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help reduce drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will require replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to be sure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to give you an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!