How to Repair a Window
Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. You can usually get your window working again by following a few simple steps.
The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more robust.
Broken or cracked Panes
A broken or cracked glass window can cause more simply a sloppy appearance. It can also allow wind, rain and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.
Cracks in your windows can be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass, or simply pressure changes in your home can cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be distinguished by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is placed under excessive pressure.
If you have a window pane damaged or cracked, there are some short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty however it will keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to make a permanent repair.
For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive, which is usually used for windows in vehicles but also works in your home. You can purchase it online or at many auto repair shops, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more work, but can last several years and keep the crack from becoming worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional, based on the extent of the crack on your window.
Water Infiltration
If a window leaks it can affect the appearance of your home and can lead to mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to call in an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the wall around a window. In some instances,
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Leaks around windows are usually caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not pitched downward to drain water away from the house.
If you do spot leaks, it is important to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. 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 spot any of these issues, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been running for a while.
A high-quality caulking job can help resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is essential to wash the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a seal. In certain situations it might not suffice to stop leaks, especially if it is a long-term issue.
If you find that your window is leaky then it is crucial to call a reputable Dearborn window repair company. They'll complete a full evaluation and tell you if the leak is caused by the window itself or if it's an issue with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it is worth attempting to repair the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. After the professionals have completed the
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The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive problem. They can also create an energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface such as glass. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not address the root issue of a broken window seal and will not prevent future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to drill holes in the window and then use a drain snake encased in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that can be effective. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.
There are a few reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal could be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, especially older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective thermal windows, but if the window has been in your house for more than ten or twenty years and has become foggy, it's likely to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.
The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. It also has other benefits, such as a warm home and lower energy costs. The best way to be sure you have a new, quality window is to partner with an experienced window contractor. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, such as the increase in heating costs during winter and increased cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues in your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps let warm air escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your AC or furnace to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.
Another common reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in triple or
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The flame of a candle could be used to identify the cold or drafty windows. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any spots where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you find the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help to remove drafts. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes are damaged, you'll need to replace them. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy-efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to be sure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide a free estimate! We look forward to hearing from you!