Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. Often, you can get your window back into working order by doing some simple steps.
The simplest 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 unattractive - it can also create air leaks in your home, allowing bugs, rain and wind to get into. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely detrimental as it destroys the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of factors including the weather and impact. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter or pressure that is too high on the glass can cause cracks like these.
There are a few quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes to keep out rain, wind and insects while you consider a long-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window, such as a shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford an even more permanent fix.
If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive, which is usually used for vehicle windows but can also be used in your home. You can purchase it online or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more work however it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting any worse. You might want to consult with a professional depending on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can affect the appearance of your home and can lead to mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the wall around a window. In some instances it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.
Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of inferior materials like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled to allow the water to drain away from the house.
If you find leaks, it's crucial to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for signs of rot in the wood that surrounds the window, damp walls and sills as well as paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these problems it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a while.
A good quality caulking job can resolve many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a tight seal. In Recommended Resource site , this may not be enough to stop a leakage particularly if it's an ongoing issue.
If you find that your window is leaking then it is crucial to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also advise you whether it's worth trying to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they will provide you with advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly problem. They can also pose an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Water evaporates on a cool surface, such as glass, to form fog. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help to remove some of the moisture from the air. It does not solve the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won't prevent further fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes in the window and then use a drain snake encased in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. This is a viable option however it is costly and is only a cosmetic fix. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes and will still leave stains and traces of rust behind.
There are a variety of reasons double-pane windows can begin to get a little cloudy. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the window to break and it's possible that the gas/air seal has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but if the window has been in your home for ten or twenty-five years and is now foggy you're probably past the point of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. There are other benefits, such as a warm home and lower cost of energy. The best method to make sure you have an excellent window is to partner with an experienced window contractor. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are accurate and install a window which is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows can cause serious issues, including higher heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort and health issues in your home. The gaps or cracks that are around the window frame and panes can create drafts. These gaps allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.
A draft in a window could be caused by issues with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is most common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Often, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
window repairs for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This can be an expensive issue that requires a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint a drafty window can help in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame is bent or flickers. This will help you identify the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll need to replace them. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to know that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for you at no cost! We look forward hearing from you!
