Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. You can usually restore your window by following a few easy steps.
The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A broken or cracked glass window can result in more than just an unsightly appearance. It can also allow wind, rain and insects to enter your home. If your 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 an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in windows can result from a variety of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack and is identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature variations especially in winter, or if the glass is placed under the pressure of a high level.
There are some quick fixes for broken or cracked windows to block rain, wind and insects while you consider a long-term solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't the most attractive solution but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.
If you want a more durable option, you can use glass adhesive, which is usually used for vehicle windows but can also be used at home. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This type of fix requires more work, but can last several years and keep the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional based on the extent of the crack on your window.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to water stains, mold, and other damage. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near the window, it's likely time to contact an expert to look into and repair the problem. In some cases it could be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most common cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the incorrect use of materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.
It is essential to check both the interior and the exterior of your house if you notice an issue with water. Check for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these issues it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window for some time.
A high-quality caulking job will help to fix numerous small 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. This might not be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you've got a problem that has been brewing for a while.
Contact a trustworthy Dearborn firm for window repair if find that your window is leaking. They will be able to provide a full assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's better sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and made the repairs, they'll be able provide tips on how to care for your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows are not simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, like glass, to form fog. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. When window repairs near me get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another option is to use a drain snake wrapped in a hose and make holes in your window to release the condensation that has been trapped. This can be effective however it is costly and is merely cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.
There are a variety of reasons why windows with double panes can become hazy. The seal could be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded with time, particularly in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to replace or repair defective thermal windows, but when the window has been in your home for more than ten or twenty years and is now foggy you're probably past the point of an insurance claim.
The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems due to faulty sealing. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best method to make sure you get a new, quality window is to partner with an experienced window installer. The right contractor will ensure the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting and reliable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health problems in your home. The cracks or gaps that are around the window frame and panes can cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit your home, causing you to have to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also create drafts. This is most common with older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Often, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is an expensive issue to fix and could require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate the drafty windows can be helpful in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should take note of any places where the flame moves or bends. This will help you identify the source of the air draft.
Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will have to replace them. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement service to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and have been installed properly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save 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 a a free estimate! We look forward to hearing from you!
