How to Repair a Window Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows break due to a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can fix your window back into functioning condition by following just a few simple steps. The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more durable. Broken or cracked panes A damaged or cracked window isn't just ugly it can also cause an air leak inside your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to enter. If your window is double-paned this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain the temperature of your home. Cracks in your windows could occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall from an object hitting the glass or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break, whereas the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, is recognized by its curving form that is similar to an hourglass. Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of windows with double panes. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences particularly in winter, or if the glass is under excessive pressure. There are a few quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out wind, water and insects while you plan a permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic cover to the window's crack like a shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This method isn't particularly attractive, but 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 vehicle windows. It will work at home as well. You can buy the adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Then, follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is a little more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and can prevent the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window. Water Infiltration When a window leaks, it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damages. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near a window, it is likely that you should call an expert to assess and fix the issue. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced. Leaks around windows are typically caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials, like construction 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 important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your home if you discover an issue with water. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood surrounding the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues, it is likely that the leak is originating from outside your window and has been running for a while. A high-quality caulking job can resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. This might not be enough to stop the leakage, especially if you have an issue that has been brewing for a long time. If you notice that your window is leaky then it is crucial to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to provide a full assessment and tell you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue that is 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 evaluated the damage, they'll provide advice on how to care for your windows. Fogged Up Windows Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface like glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass. One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which could assist in removing some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the root issue of a damaged window seal and will not prevent future fogging. Another method is to drill holes into the window and use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is efficient. It does not replace the inert gases that are between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind. There are a few reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has degraded over time, especially older homes. A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows, but in the event that the window is in your home for ten or twenty years and is now hazy it's probably beyond the scope of a warranty claim. The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not be affected by an ineffective seal. This will give clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy bills. The best way to make sure you have an excellent window is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window. Drafty Windows The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can raise your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health problems within your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the frame and window panes. These gaps let warm air escape your home and cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable. A draft in a window can be caused by issues with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is especially common with older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping. The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This can be an expensive issue and may require a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas. The flame of a candle could be used to find an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame bends or flickers. This will help you determine the source of the draft. Re-caulking and installing weather stripping may help reduce drafts. However, more complex problems with your window seals or panes will likely need a complete replacement. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement service to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and fitted correctly. This is the only way to know that you'll save money on your energy bills throughout the year! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for free! We look forward to getting in touch with you!
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