This Week's Most Popular Stories About Repair A Window
How to Repair a Window
Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, like wind or kids playing baseball. Most of the time, you can get your window back in good working order by following some simple steps.
The most straightforward solution is to use tape to cover 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 glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If your window is double-paned this could be particularly detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of factors, including impact and weather conditions. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break, while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture can be identified by its curved shape that resembles an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane windows. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is subject to excessive pressure.
There are some quick fixes for broken or cracked windows to block wind, water and insects while you consider a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't the most attractive solution but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal vehicle windows. It works at home too. You can buy this online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of fix requires more effort however it can last for several years and stop the crack from getting more severe. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to talk to a professional.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damages. It is time to contact an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the wall around a window. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.
The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is a poor installation or the incorrect use of materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled to drain the water away from the home.
It is crucial to examine both the interior and the exterior of your house if you notice an issue with water. Examine for decayed wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these signs, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing for a while.
A quality caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. This might not be enough to stop the leakage, especially if you have a problem that's been going on for a while.
If you discover that your window is leaky and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair service. They'll perform a thorough evaluation and let you know if the leak is due to the window itself or whether it's a problem with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it's more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can provide advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface such as glass. window repair near me happens naturally when warm, humid air in the home meets cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to 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. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a broken seal, and won't stop future window fogging.
Another method is to drill holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. This can be effective, but it is expensive and only an aesthetic fix. It is not a replacement for the inert gas between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.
There are many reasons why a double-pane window may begin to fog. Damage to the seal from sanding around the frames or pressure washing could cause the window to break and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten years and is now foggy it may be too late for an claim.
The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from issues with the seal being defective. 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. Employing a window installer with experience will ensure that you get the best window. The right contractor will ensure the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can raise your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health problems in your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes can create drafts. These cracks let cold air in and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window could be caused by issues with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This can often be fixed by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.
The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This could be a costly issue to fix and could require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Utilizing the flame of candles to pinpoint a drafty window can be helpful in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any areas that the flame moves or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious issues with the seals on your windows or panes could require a full replacement. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted 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 to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate for free! We look forward hearing from you!