How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for a variety of reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. Often you can get your window back into good working order by following just a few simple steps.
The easiest fix 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 glass window can cause more than just an unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks can form in your windows due to a range of reasons, including the weather and impact. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home can cause the outer layer of the window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter, or if the glass is subject to an excess amount of pressure.
If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out until you work on a longer-term solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to make a permanent repair.
To make a long-lasting choice you can opt for glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is a bit more labor-intensive, however it can last for many years and will keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with an expert.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can affect the appearance of your home. It can also lead to mold, water stains, and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to windows, it's likely time to contact an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.
Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of poor quality materials, such as building paper or housewrap 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 crucial to examine both the interior and the exterior of your house if you discover a leak. Look for areas of rot in the wood surrounding the window, damp walls and sills as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues it is likely the leak is originating from outside your window and has been running for some time.
A good quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. This might not be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you have a problem that's been brewing for a long time.
If you discover that your window is leaking then it is crucial to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window itself or whether it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to maintain your windows.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist 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 lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on the window.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which will aid in eliminating some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a damaged seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.
Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. This can be effective but it's costly and is only cosmetically correct. It won't replace the gas in between the panes and will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are several reasons why double-pane windows can start to fog. The seal can be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten years and has become hazy, it could be too late to make claims.
The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like a warm home and lower energy bills. double glazing repairs Camden Town to make sure you purchase the best quality windows is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. The right contractor will ensure that the measurements are accurate and will install a window that is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues within your home. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit your home, increasing the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fail. Most of the time, this is repaired 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 been broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly issue to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other areas in the area.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint a drafty window can help determine where a cold air leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help to eliminate some drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will require replacement. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to be sure 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 a no-cost estimates! We look forward to getting in touch with you!