Windows can break for many reasons, like the wind or children playing baseball. Most of the time, you can get your window back in functioning condition by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the simplest method to fix any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly but it could also cause air leaks in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to get into. If your window is double-paned, this could be particularly damaging as it ruins the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall hitting the glass, or pressure changes inside your home, can cause the outer layer to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during winter or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks like these.
If you have a window pane damaged or cracked there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out while you think of a long-term solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window like a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This method isn't particularly attractive, but will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.
To make a long-lasting choice, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works at home. You can buy this adhesive online or in many auto repair shops. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort however it can last for several years and stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can ruin the appearance of your house, and can cause water stains, mold, and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to the window, it's likely that you should call an expert to assess and fix the issue. In certain cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the incorrect use of materials such as building paper or housewrap instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't pitched downward to drain water away from the house.
It is essential to check both the inside and exterior of your home if you spot a leak. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for some time.
A well-executed caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage, especially if you have an issue that has been going on for a long time.
If you discover that your window is leaking, it is important to call a reputable Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to provide a full assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also help you determine if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they'll give you advice about how to care for your windows.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly problem. They can also pose a serious energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface like glass. This can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the root issue of a broken window seal and won't prevent further fogging.
Another option is to use a drain-snake wrapped in pantyhose and drill holes in your window to eliminate the condensate that is trapped. This can be very effective however it is costly and is only cosmetically correct. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.
There are many reasons why a double-pane window may begin to get a little cloudy. Damage to the seal caused by sanding around the frames or pressure washing can cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air seal has degraded over time, especially in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However the window that you have been in use for more than ten years and is now hazy it might be too late to make an claim.
The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new high-quality window that does not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and many other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best method to make sure you have a new, quality window is to partner with an experienced window installer. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, like increased heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air to leave your home, which increases the need to run your air conditioner or furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also cause a draft. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time, the wood can expand and contract, which causes the seals to fall apart. In most cases, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This can be an expensive issue to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other areas in the area.
The flame of a candle could be used to locate the cold or drafty windows. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame, and note any areas where the flame bends or flickers. This can help you find the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows could be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll require replacement. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!
