How to Repair a Window
It could be from baseball players or wind in the night, windows can break due to a variety. You can usually repair your window by following a few simple steps.
Tape is the most efficient method to fix any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more durable.
Broken or cracked Panes
A broken or cracked window repair isn’t just ugly – it can also create an air leak in your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. If your window is double-paned this can be especially damaging as it ruins the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a variety of factors, including the weather and impact. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of the window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, can be identified by its curved shape that looks like an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.
There are a few quick fixes for cracked or broken windows to block the elements of wind, water, and bugs while you consider a long-term solution. For example, you can apply a plastic covering to the window’s crack like a shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This isn’t the most attractive solution, but it will help keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.
To make a long-lasting choice, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs; Tempaste`s recent blog post, in vehicles, but will also work at home. You can purchase the adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This type of fix will require more effort but it can last for years and stop the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional depending on the extent of the crack on your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to contact a professional if you notice spots or water stains on the wall around a window. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the window entirely.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the incorrect use of materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the house.
If you 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 as well as paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these problems, it’s likely that the leak has been emanating from the outside of your window for a long time.
A good quality caulking job can resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking yourself however you’ll have to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. In some cases it might not be enough to stop a leakage, especially if it is a long-term issue.
Contact a reputable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able complete an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They will also assist you to decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it is more sensible to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and made the repairs, they will be able to provide advice on how to take care of your windows in the future.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive problem. They can also pose an energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, to form fog. This happens naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a home where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy, 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.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the root issue of a damaged window seal and won’t prevent further fogging.
Another popular remedy is to use a drain snake wrapped in a hose and make holes in your window to release the condensate that is trapped. This is a viable option however it is costly and is only a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. Damage to the seal caused by sanding around the frames or pressure washing can cause the crack and it’s possible that the gas/air seal has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in place for ten or 20 years and is now hazy it may be too late for a claim.
The best way to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new high-quality, durable window that will not have any problems with an ineffective seal. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best method to make sure you purchase an excellent window is to partner with an experienced window contractor. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues in your home. Window drafts are caused by gaps or cracks around the frame and window panes. These gaps let warm air escape from your home, while allowing cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could cause drafts. This is particularly common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, causing seals to fail. Often, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly problem and could require an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to identify the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the window’s frame and you should note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help remove drafts. However, more advanced issues with the seals on your windows or panes could need a complete replacement. Talk to an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to be sure that you’ll save money on your energy bills all year long! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We’re happy to give you a no-cost estimates! We look forward to getting in touch with you!
