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. It is possible to repair your window by following a couple of simple steps.
Tape is the simplest method to repair any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more durable.
Cracked or Broken Panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly - it can also create an air leak in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to get into. If the 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 a an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks can develop in your windows due to a variety of factors including the weather and impacts. A fall that hits the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture is identified by its curved shape that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially during winter or pressure that is too high on the glass can lead to these types of cracks.
If you have a window damaged or cracked, there are some short-term solutions to keep water, wind and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack for example, an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home warm and dry until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal vehicle windows. It works at home as well. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto repair shops and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and prevent the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home. It can also lead to mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to contact an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the wall surrounding the window. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is improper installation or the incorrect use of materials such as housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the home.
If you do spot leaks, it's essential to examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Check for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues, it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for some time.
A quality caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage especially if you have a problem that has been going on for a long time.
Contact a reputable Dearborn company to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They'll be able to complete a full evaluation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also help you determine if it is worth trying to repair the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they will provide advice on how to care for your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive issue. They can also pose an energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface such as glass. This happens naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on windows.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help to remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another method is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and make holes in your window to eliminate the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is effective. It won't replace the gas in between the panes, and it will leave behind deposits and stains on the window.
There are several reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal could be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded with time, especially older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten years and has become hazy, it could be too late to make claims.
The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not be affected by an ineffective seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and a better energy efficiency. There are other advantages, including an insulated home and lower cost of energy. A window contractor who is experienced will ensure that you get a quality window. The right contractor will ensure the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. Window drafts are caused by gaps or cracks around the window panes and frame. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is particularly common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
window repairs Edgware for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue to fix, and may require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.
Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate drafty windows can help in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will need to replace them. It's important to consult with an experienced window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted properly. You will only reduce your energy bill if you consult with an expert window replacement service. 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 look forward to getting in touch with you!