How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows can break due to a variety. You can usually repair your window by following a few simple steps.
Tape is the most efficient method to fix any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more robust.
Cracked or broken Panes
A broken or cracked glass window can result in more than simply a sloppy appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned, this could be particularly harmful as it damages the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall hitting the glass, or pressure changes inside your home, could cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack, also known as a pressure crack, can be identified by its curving shape that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane windows. Extreme temperature differences, especially in winter or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.
If you have a window that is cracked or broken There are a few short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out until you work on a longer-term solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great, but it will help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal vehicle windows. It will work at home too. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is a little more labor-intensive, however it can last for many years and can stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to speak with a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can damage the appearance of your house, and also cause water stains, mold and other damage. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near a window, it is likely time to contact an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.
The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is a poor installation or improper use of materials such as housewrap or construction paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. 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 important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your home if you notice a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these signs it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been running for some time.
A quality caulking job will assist in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a good seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have a problem that has been brewing for a while.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn business for window repair if find that your window is leaking. They can provide a full assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also help you decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it would make more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and made the repairs, they will be able to give you advice on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows aren't just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, like glass, forming fog. It can happen naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When window panes get foggy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on the window.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to make holes in the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the condensation that has been trapped. This can be effective however it is costly and is only an aesthetic fix. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes, and it will leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons double-pane windows can start to fog. Damage to the seal caused by sanding around the frames or pressure washing could cause the window to break, 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 fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten years and has become hazy, it may be too late to file a claim.
The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new high-quality, durable window that will not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower cost of energy. Working with double glazing repair Dover who is experienced will ensure that you get an excellent window. A reputable contractor will make sure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious problem that can increase your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues in your home. 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 to exit 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 common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. In most cases, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly issue that requires an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to find the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any places where the flame moves or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and installing weather stripping may help reduce drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will require replacement. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save 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 a an estimate for free! We look forward getting in touch with you!