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How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. You can usually get your window working again by following a few simple steps.
Tape is the easiest way 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 unsightly but it could also cause air leaks in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to enter. If the window is double-paned this can be especially harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks can develop in your windows due to a range of factors, including the weather 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, whereas the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure crack, is identified by its curved shape that resembles an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of double pane windows. Extreme temperature differences, especially in winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks like these.
If you have a window pane damaged or cracked, there are some short-term solutions to keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home warm and dry until you're able to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows in vehicles. It can be used at home as well. You can buy this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Then, follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort, but can last several years and prevent the crack from getting any more severe. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to speak with a professional.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can affect the appearance of your home. It can also lead to mold, water stains, and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to the window, it's likely that you should call an expert to look into and fix the issue. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.
Leaks around windows are often caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to let the water drain away from the house.
If you do spot leaks, it is crucial to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for signs of rot in the wood around the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these signs it's likely that the leak is emanating from the outside of your window for a while.
A high-quality caulking job can resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly first to ensure a seal. This might not be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you've got a problem that's been going on for a long time.
Contact a reputable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able complete an exhaustive assessment and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also assist you to determine if it's worth trying to repair the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the repairs they'll be able give you suggestions on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface like glass. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks appearing on the window.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, Window Replacement which will aid in eliminating some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhoses to clear the condensate that is trapped. This can be very effective, but it is expensive and is only cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.
There are many reasons why a double-pane window may begin to fog. The seal could be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, Window Replacement particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in place for more than ten years and is now foggy it might be too late to make an claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. Working with a window contractor with experience will ensure that you get a quality window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can raise your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps around the frame and window panes. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air to exit your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This can be a costly issue to fix, and may require the help of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint drafty windows can help in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any spots where the flame bends or flickers. This will help you identify the source of the draft.
Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes are cracked, you'll need to replace them. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. You can only save money on your energy bill if contact an expert window replacement company. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement (here.) and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for free! We're looking forward to hearing from you!
