Repair A Window: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
Wiki Article
How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, like the wind or children playing baseball. In most cases, you can get your window back into functioning condition 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.
Broken or cracked Panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly but it could also cause an air leak in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to get into. If your window is double-paned this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation that the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in windows can occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, can cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter months, or when the glass is under excessive pressure.
There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out rain, wind and bugs until you consider a long-term solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to make a permanent repair.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows in vehicles. It will work at home as well. You can purchase the adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This type of fix is a bit more labor-intensive, however it can last for several years and can prevent the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional based on the degree of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can affect the appearance of your home. It can also lead to water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call in an expert if you spot water spots or stains on the wall surrounding the window. In some cases it may be necessary for the window to be replaced.
The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is a poor installation or improper use of materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to drain the water away from the house.
If you find leaks, it's important to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a while.
A good caulking job can aid in repairing 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 seal. In some cases it might not suffice to stop a leak especially if it's a long-term issue.
Contact a reputable Dearborn company for window repair if you find that your window is leaking. They'll conduct a thorough assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window itself or whether it's an issue with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They will also assist you to decide if it is worth trying to repair the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they'll provide advice on how to maintain your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates on a cool surface, such as glass, to form fog. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. It does not solve the root issue of a damaged window seal and won't stop future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and drill holes in your window to release the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is efficient. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes and will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.
There are a few reasons why windows with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the break, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, when the window is in your home for ten or twenty-five years and is now foggy you're probably to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and other advantages like a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best way to be sure you get a new, quality window is to work with an experienced window contractor. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major 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 cracks or gaps that are around the window frame and panes can create drafts. These gaps let warm air escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also cause a draft. This is most common with older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Often, this can be remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly issue that requires professional help from a window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to find an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you determine the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking the window click here or adding weather stripping. However, more serious problems with your window seals or panes will likely require a complete replacement. Talk to an expert in window replacement to ensure that the windows you choose are energy efficient and properly installed. You will save money on your energy bill if contact an expert window replacement service. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide a free estimate! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!