How to Repair a Window
It could be from baseball players or wind at night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. In most cases you can fix your window back into working order by doing a few easy steps.
The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly but it could also cause air leaks in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to get into. If the window is double-paned this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a variety of factors including the weather and impacts. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be distinguished by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of double pane windows. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is under excessive pressure.
If you have a window that is cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out until you think of a long-term solution. You could cut a piece 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 can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows in vehicles. It can be used at home too. You can buy this adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more effort, but can last several years and stop the crack from getting more severe. You might want to consult with a professional based on the extent of the crack on your window.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you spot water stains or spots on the wall around a window. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of inferior materials, like building paper or housewrap 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.
window repairs near me is crucial to examine both the interior and the exterior of your home if you notice an issue with water. Check for decayed wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems it is likely the leak is originating from outside your window and has been running for a while.
A good caulking job can assist in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In some cases it might not be enough to stop a leak, especially if it is a long-term issue.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn firm for window repair if you discover that your window leaks. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also be able to tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it's more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll provide advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.
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Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive issue. They can also pose a serious energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, such as glass, and forms fog. This happens naturally when warm, humid air in the home meets cold air. If windows become hazy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
The most common method for fogging windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which can aid in eliminating some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the root cause of a broken window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another method is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and drill holes in your window to eliminate the condensate that is trapped. This is a viable option however it is costly and is merely an aesthetic fix. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are a variety of reasons a double-pane window may start to fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing can cause the crack and it's possible that the gas/air seal has degraded over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but in the event that the window has been in your house for ten or twenty-five years and has become foggy you're probably beyond the scope of an insurance claim.
The best option to fix foggy windows 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 clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy bills. Working with a window contractor who is experienced will ensure you get an excellent window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, like higher heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These gaps allow cold air to enter and warm air to exit 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 especially common with older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood will expand and contract, which causes the seals to break down. In most cases, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly issue to fix, and may require the assistance of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.
Utilizing the flame of candle to locate drafty windows can help in determining where a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame, and note any areas where the flame bends or flickers. This will help you determine the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes have damaged, you'll require replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed properly. This is the only way to be sure 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 for free! We look forward hearing from you!