Over time, windows can get damaged and worn out. This could leave your home vulnerable to break-ins or lead to higher utility bills.
Locating a window repair company to fix your windows can help you save money and increase the energy efficiency of your house. Compare quotes from different companies. Check to see if they're insured and licensed (if applicable in your area).
Broken Glass
Broken window glass can be caused by a violent storm, a ball from a child or even a stone that fell off your lawnmower. If the break is in your home's windowpane or a glass piece that is decorative like a mirror, it can be a real pain. However, repairing cracks within glass is relatively easy for those who are comfortable working with a small amount of hard material. You'll need some basic supplies and approximately an hour per window to do the job right.
Before you start the repair, it is important to make sure that your safety is a priority. Glass is not just brittle; it can be dangerous if it is broken and contaminated with toxic substances or blood. Protect yourself by wearing gloves, thick pants, and boots while handling glass in your windows. Wear an air mask if want to avoid breathing in the fine particles.
Depending on window repairs for the break, you'll have to decide whether to repair the fracture or replace it. For a stress crack that's caused by extreme temperature changes, a piece of strong-hold tape might suffice to prevent the crack from getting worse until you are able to replace the glass. For cracks that are more extensive that are caused by temperature changes, you'll have to make a bigger application of tape. You can wrap the entire window surface on both sides.
You can purchase glass adhesive on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores. Typically it is used to repair windshields, but it can work equally well on your windows. Follow the directions on the bottle when applying the adhesive to the area affected. Then allow the adhesive to dry overnight. The next day you should be able see the area that is cracked, but it shouldn't be too obvious.
You may also need to use the heat gun to warm up any old glazing or putty on the edges of both the frame and the glass. With your hands covered in gloves, loosen any pieces of glass that have become stuck in the frame and take them out. If you live in an older home that has painted frames, look for lead paint before using a utility knife or another hand tool to remove the frame. In the ideal scenario, you'll need an expert assist you in removing or replacing the window glass if you have old lead paint or a very large crack.
Foggy Windows
Windows that are soiled can cause more than just an unattractive appearance. They can also cause other issues, like water damage, mold mildew, and loss of energy efficiency. When this issue occurs it is crucial to have the problem treated promptly by a professional who is skilled in replacing windows in Florida.
Often, when your windows begin to get cloudy it is a sign that there is condensation between the panes of glass. It could be due to a range of factors including temperature and humidity. As the air cools, the moisture may get trapped between the glass panes. This can also be caused by a damaged seal. The window will lose its insulation and offer no protection from the harsh winter weather winter, or the high cooling costs during the summer.
The best way to solve this issue is to hire an expert window repair and replacement expert who can utilize a technique known as defogging, which can restore your windows back to their former transparent glory. This process may take a while, but will remove any air pockets or moisture that may contribute to your windows fogging.
In most cases, your windows are not working properly because the window seal is broken. This means that they are unable to provide insulation and protection against the elements. This is a bigger problem than condensation on single-paned windows. It is typically caused by excessive heat stress over time. The sun's rays that constantly hit your windows could cause them to expand and contract all day long. This can weaken the seals, and make them more susceptible to abrasion and moisture.
In this instance replacing the insulated glass unit (or IGU) is the most efficient way to resolve the issue and prevent it from happening in the future. Window professionals can remove the IGU from the sash and replace it with the latest model that is designed to resist moisture and abrasion which will provide you with clean, clear windows as well as improved energy efficiency in your home.
Leaky Seals
Window seals are made to last for a long time, but they could crack and fail over time. Regularly inspect and caulk them, particularly around corners as well as in knotholes that are on siding, and along the dormer wall. Rain that is driven by wind can drip over the flashing and into the house and cause mould growth, wood rot and sagging roofing. Heat guns used by house painters to take paint from windows can cause damage to the seals.
A multi-pane thermal or insulated glass window that has space between the panes is referred to as an IGU (or thermopane). IGU seal failures are characterized by condensation, fogging, and fogging. Although DIY kits exist to clear fog from IGUs they can be a challenge to use by home owners. Professionals can repair the inner seal to restore the IGU's extra insulation value. This is usually less expensive than replacing the frame and window. Professionals are also best placed to replace the stops or stop moldings, that support an IGU within the frame of a window. They must be removed and could require interior trim to be removed.
Cracked Frames
The frames of windows are crucial for holding the glass in place and preventing air leakage through the frame. However, over time, the frames could develop cracks and other issues that require the assistance of a professional. It can be as simple to repair a minor crack or as complex as replacing the entire frame. In either scenario, it is advised to hire a professional immediately to address the issue.
A damaged or cracked wood frame is usually in need of a replacement. The cost ranges between $100 and $850 per window depending on the type and quality of the wood used. Wood is prone to rotting over time, particularly in areas that are exposed to the elements for long periods of time. However, it is possible to repair the wood on a frame, instead of replacing the entire structure, at a lower cost.
Aluminum frames also tend to corrode with time. This can cause broken glazing which is the material that keeps the windows weatherproof. It can be fixed by reglazing, an application of an adhesive over the existing glass. The process typically takes between $250 and $500 per unit, however the exact cost will differ depending on the type of aluminum used for the frame.
The frames made of composite can also degrade over time. Rotting and other issues could need replacement. They are typically made for up to 50 years, however if they are damaged before that point, it may be best to simply replace them.
Vinyl frames can be more durable than wood or aluminum however they can get damaged over time. Vinyl is prone to becoming brittle, particularly in areas exposed to intense sunlight for long periods of time. Furthermore, it is also possible for seals to fail and cause fogging. Re-sealing windows is a solution to fogging. This process usually requires access to the roof or ladder.
While a damaged frame isn't always a major issue but it shouldn't be overlooked. To prevent further damage, it is important that any problems with the frame or sashes are addressed by a professional immediately. A professional can also assist with other repairs such as fixing holes in walls or replacing the sill.
