Over time, windows get damaged and worn out. This can leave your property vulnerable to break-ins or result in higher utility bills.
You can save money by hiring a window repair business to fix your windows. This can also increase the efficiency of the home. Get estimates from several companies and make sure they are licensed (if required in your area) and insured.
Broken Glass
A storm that is severe or a child's baseball or a rock from your lawnmower can leave you with broken window glass. Whether the break is in your home's window or a glass piece for decoration, such as mirrors, it could be a real pain. Repairing glass cracks can be fairly simple for those who are prepared to work with hard materials. You'll need a few supplies and approximately an hour per window to get the job done right.
Before window repairs dive into the repair, you'll need to ensure that your safety is a priority. Glass is not just brittle; it can be dangerous if broken or is contaminated by toxic substances or blood. Wear gloves, thick pants and boots when handling window glass. You should also wear a dust mask to prevent breathing in fine particles.
You'll need to decide if you want to repair or replace the damage depending on the reason for the break. For a stress crack that's caused by extreme temperature changes, a strip of strong-hold tape may suffice to stop it from becoming worse until you can replace the glass. For deeper cracks that are caused by temperature changes, you'll have to make a bigger application of tape. You can wrap the entire surface of your window on both sides.
You can purchase glass adhesive on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores. Typically this product is used to repair windshields but it can work equally well for your windows. Follow the instructions on the bottle to apply it on the affected area. Let the adhesive dry over the course of a night. The next day, you should be able to see the area that is cracked, but it shouldn't be too obvious.
Apart from gluing the cracks and repairing it, you may also need to employ a heat gun in order to warm up any old or putty around the edges of the glass frame. With gloves on, gently remove any pieces of glass that are stuck to the frame and then remove them. Check for lead paint if have an old house with painted frames before using the utility tool or other hand-tools around the frame. If you have lead paint on your windows or have a large crack, it's recommended to hire a professional assist you in removing or replacing the glass.
Foggy Windows
Windows that are soiled can cause more than just an unsightly appearance. They can also cause other issues, including water damage, mold mildew, and a loss of energy efficiency. If this happens it is crucial to have the problem treated immediately by a qualified expert who is experienced in replacing windows in Florida.
If your windows are smoky, there is usually condensation between the panes of glass. It could be due to various factors, such as humidity and temperature that could cause the moisture to get trapped between the panes of glass when the air cools down. It can also be caused by a broken seal, which can cause the window to be de-insulated and no longer offer protection from the cold winter weather or cooling costs in the summer.
This problem can be solved by hiring a window replacement and repair specialist who will use a defogging method to restore your windows back to their original transparency. This process can take a while, but will remove any air pockets and moisture that could be causing your windows to fogging.
In most cases, though, the issue with your windows may be due to the fact that the seal has broken, causing it to not provide insulation or protection against the elements. This is a far more serious problem than the normal condensation that can occur on single-pane windows, and it's usually caused by excessive heat stress on the frames of windows over time. The constant sun beating on your windows can cause the frames of your windows to expand and shrink throughout the day, which can eventually weaken the seals and make them more vulnerable to abrasion and moisture.
In this instance replacing the IGU (or IGU) is the most efficient method to fix the issue and prevent it from occurring in the future. Window experts can take out the old IGU and replace it with a an entirely new one that is designed to resist moisture and abrasion. This will give you clear, clean windows and improve the efficiency of your home's energy use.
Leaky Seals
Window seals are made to last for a long time, but they could crack and fail over time. They should be checked and caulked regularly, especially around corners and through the knotholes in siding, and at dormer walls. The rain from the wind can flow over the flashing and into the house, causing mould growth, wood rot, and sagging shingles. Heat guns used by house painters to remove paint from windows may also cause damage to the seals.
IGU (or thermopane) is a multi-pane thermal glass windows with space in between the panes. IGU seal failure is defined by fogging, condensation and fogging. While DIY kits are available to clear fog from IGUs however, they can be difficult for homeowners to use effectively. Professionals can replace the inner seal to reinstate the IGU's extra insulation value. This service can be much cheaper than replacing a window or frame. Professionals are also the best choice to replace the stop, or stop moldings that hold an IGU within the frame of a window. These must be removed, and could require the trim to be removed.
Cracked frames
The frames of windows are vital to hold the glass in place and also to stop air leakage through the frame. However, over time, the frames may develop cracks and other issues that require the assistance of a professional. It can be as simple to fill in a small crack or as complicated as replacing the entire frame. In either case, the best solution is to employ a professional to take care of the issue immediately.
A cracked or rotted wooden frame needs to be replaced. The cost ranges from $100 to $850 for a window based on the kind and quality of the wood used. Wood rots over time, particularly in areas that are exposed to the elements. It is cheaper to repair the wood in frames than to replace the entire frame.
Aluminum frames may also corrode with time. This can cause broken glazing, which is the material which helps keep windows weatherproof. It can be fixed by reglazing, which is an approach that involves the application of a sealant on the existing glazing. The process can cost anywhere from $250 to $500 per unit. However, the price can vary depending on the type and grade of aluminium used.
Composite frames can also become damaged over time. Rotting and other issues could require replacement. These windows can last for up to 50 years. However, if they become damaged before then, it is best to replace them.
Vinyl frames are more robust than aluminum and wood models, but they may still be damaged as time passes. Vinyl frames can become brittle particularly in areas exposed to intense sunlight for long periods of time, and it is also possible for the seals to crack which can cause fogging. Re-sealing windows is a solution to fogging. This procedure usually requires access to the roof or ladder.
While a damaged frame isn't always a serious issue however, it should not be overlooked. It is important to be sure that any problems with the frame or sashes addressed by a professional as soon as you can to avoid further damage. A professional can help with other repairs, like fixing holes in the wall or replacing the sill.
