Repair A Window: 10 Things I'd Like To Have Known Earlier
How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, like the wind or children playing baseball. You can often repair your window by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the simplest method to fix any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more robust.
Cracked or Broken Panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just ugly but it could also cause an air leak inside your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. If your window is double-paned this could be particularly harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner 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 weather conditions and impact. An impact from a fallen object striking the glass or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inner pane remains 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 exterior and interior layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.
There are several quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes that will keep out the elements of wind, water and insects while you plan a permanent solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great, but it will help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to make a permanent repair.
For a longer-lasting option, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for vehicle windows but will also work at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in the majority of auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair is a little more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and can prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the condition of your window you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to mold, water stains and other damage. If you spot water spots or stains on the wall near a window, it is likely that you should call a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.
Leaks around windows are typically caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled to let the water drain away from the home.
It is essential to check both the interior and the exterior of your home if you spot the presence of a leak. Check for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these issues, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from the outside of your window for some time.
A quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a seal. This might not be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you have an issue that has been going on for a long time.
Contact a reliable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able to provide an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is due to the window or if it is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also advise you if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's more sense to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll provide advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are not simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface, such as glass. window repair near me can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic fix that can be effective. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded, or pressure washing could cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air seal has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in use for more than ten years and has become hazy, it might be too late to file a claim.
The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new, high-quality window that will not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and a better energy efficiency. It also has additional benefits, like an insulated home and lower energy bills. Working with a window contractor who is skilled will ensure that you receive a quality window. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps allow cold air to pass through and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to run your air conditioner or furnace to keep the temperature comfortable.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing the seals to fail. In most cases, this can be corrected 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 allowing the gas argon to escape. This can be costly 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 locate an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note 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 or adding weather stripping. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you'll need to replace them. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure that the windows you choose are energy-efficient and installed correctly. You will reduce your energy bills if you contact an expert window replacement company. 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 hearing from you!