This Week s Most Popular Stories About Repair A Window
How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows break due to a variety. You can often restore your window by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the easiest way to fix any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly - it can also create air leaks in your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage, as they can destroy the insulation provided by the glass and cause your furnace or air conditioner have to work harder to maintain a comfortable home temperature.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a variety of factors including the weather and impacts. A fall from an object hitting the glass, or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture, can be recognized by its curving form that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences particularly in winter months, or when the glass is under an excess amount of pressure.
There are some quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes to keep out rain, wind and insects while you plan a permanent solution. You can cut a piece to size of plastic 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 tackle a more permanent repair.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal vehicle windows. It works at home as well. You can buy this online or at many auto repair shops, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of fix requires more effort but it can last for years and prevent the crack from getting any worse. You might want to consult with a professional depending on the degree of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to call a professional if you notice spots or water stains on the wall around the window. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is improper installation or the use of materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't pitched downward to drain water away from the home.
It is crucial to examine both the inside and exterior of your house if you spot a leak. Check for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these signs it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window for a while.
A quality caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is essential to wash the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a tight seal. In some cases, this may not suffice to stop a leak particularly if it's a long-term issue.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn firm for window repair if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able complete an assessment of the entire situation and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also assist you to determine if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's better to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll give you advice about how to maintain your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive problem. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, such as glass, to form fog. This happens naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
A common solution for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier near the window, which will help remove some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the underlying problem of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.
Another option is to drill holes in the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the trapped condensation. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is only an aesthetic fix. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons double-pane windows can begin to get a little cloudy. The seal may be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded with time, especially older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in place for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it may be too late to file a claim.
The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, top-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows and better energy efficiency. There are other advantages, including a warm home and lower energy bills. A window contractor who is experienced will ensure that you receive a quality window. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts result from gaps or cracks around the window panes and frame. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home and cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a windows can also be caused by problems with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. This can often be repaired by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.
The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This can be costly to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Using the flame from candle to locate the drafty windows can help determine the source of a cold air leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious problems with your window seals or panes could require a full replacement. It's important to consult with an experienced window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted properly. You will only reduce your energy bills if you contact an expert window replacement company. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for free! We're looking forward to hearing from you!