The Reasons You Shouldn t Think About Making Improvements To Your Repair A Window
How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. Most of the time you can get your window back into functioning condition by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the easiest way to repair any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.
Cracked or broken Panes
A damaged or cracked window isn't just ugly it can also cause air leaks in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to get into. If your window is double-paned, this could be particularly damaging as it ruins the insulation the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain 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 even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of the window to break, whereas the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture is identified by its curving shape that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks like these.
If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep wind, water and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to make a permanent repair.
If you want a more durable option, you can use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works at home. You can purchase this on the internet or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is a little more labor intensive, but it can last for many years and keep 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 could ruin the appearance of your home and can cause water stains, mold, and other damages. It is time to call in an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the wall surrounding a window repair. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is improper installation or improper use of materials such as housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.
If you find a leak, it is crucial to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues, it is likely that the leak is coming from outside your window and has been flowing for a while.
A well-executed caulking job will assist in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a seal. In some instances it might not suffice to stop a leak particularly if it's a long-term issue.
If you discover that your window is leaky, it is important to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able complete an exhaustive assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window or is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also help you determine if it is worth trying to repair the window or if it's better to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they'll provide you with advice on how to maintain your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly problem. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold surface such as glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
The most common method for fogging windows is to install a dehumidifier near the window, which could help remove some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another method is to wrap a drain-snake in pantyhose and drill holes into your window to remove the trapped condensation. This can be very effective, but it is expensive and is merely an aesthetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, window repair and it will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons windows with double panes can begin to fog. Damage to the seal from sanding around the frames or pressure washing can cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, when the window is in your home for ten or twenty-five years and is now foggy, it's likely to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.
The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and many other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower utility bills. The best way to make sure you have the best quality windows is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window which is sturdy and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs in the summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues within your home. The cracks or gaps that are around the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These gaps allow cold air to enter and warm air to leave your home, which increases the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is most common with older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. In most cases, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another common reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This can be an expensive issue that requires a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from a candle to locate drafty windows can help in determining where a cold air leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. However, more advanced problems with the seals on your windows or panes will likely need a complete replacement. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy-efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year round! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward getting in touch with you!
