It could be from baseball players or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. You can often repair your window by following a couple of simple steps.
The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Broken or cracked panes
A cracked or broken window isn't just ugly but it could also cause air leaks in your home, allowing bugs, rain and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass, and make your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature in your home.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a range of reasons, including the weather and impacts. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass, or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, while the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter, or if the glass is subject to an excess amount of pressure.
There are some quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes to keep out wind, water and insects while you consider a long-term solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford a more permanent fix.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows on vehicles. It works at home too. You can purchase this on the internet or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This type of fix is more labor-intensive, but it can last for many years and can prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with a professional.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks, it can ruin the look of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the wall surrounding a window. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.
Leaks around windows are typically due to poor installation or the use of poor quality 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 downwards to drain the water away from the home.
If you find leaks, it is essential to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a long time.
A quality caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a solid seal. In certain situations, this may not be enough to stop a leak especially if it's an ongoing issue.
If you find that your window is leaking and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They will also be able to tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can provide advice on how to maintain your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows aren't just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface such as glass. It can happen naturally when warm, humid air from the home is paired with cold air. When windows become foggy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. It does not solve the root cause of a broken window seal and won't stop future fogging.
Another method is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and make holes in your window to release the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is effective. It is not a replacement for the inert gases that are between the panes. It will leave behind stains and deposits.
There are many reasons why a double-pane window may begin to get a little cloudy. 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 repair or replace defective thermal windows, but when the window has been in your home for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it's probably beyond the scope of a warranty claim.
The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from issues with the seal being defective. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy costs. Working with a window contractor who is skilled will ensure that you receive an excellent window. The right contractor will ensure that the measurements are correct and install a window which is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows can cause serious issues, including higher heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These cracks let warm air escape from your home, while allowing cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.
A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is particularly common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fall apart. This can often be corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them.
The most common reason for drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue to fix and may require the help of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other local areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to locate a drafty or cold window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. However, more complex issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require a full replacement. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure that the windows you choose are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save 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 to give you an estimate at no cost! We look forward hearing from you!
