How to Repair a Window
From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows are broken due to a variety of reasons. It is possible to repair your window by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the simplest method to repair any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.
Broken or cracked Panes
A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly but it could also cause an air leak inside your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage as they can ruin the insulation offered by the glass, and make your furnace or AC work harder to maintain a a comfortable home temperature.
Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture, can be identified by its curved shape that looks like an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks like these.
There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes to keep out the elements of wind, water and bugs until you plan a permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic covering to the window's crack like a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This isn't very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford an even more permanent fix.
If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive that is typically used for
window repairs in vehicles, but also works in your home. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto repair shops and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of fix is a bit more labor-intensive, but it will last for a few years and stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you may want to consult an expert.
Water Infiltration
If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your house, and cause water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the wall surrounding the window. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or improper use of materials such as building paper or housewrap instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the home.
It is crucial to examine both the interior and exterior of your home if you spot the presence of a leak. Check for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these signs, it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for a long time.
A well-executed caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking yourself however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a good seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leak, especially if you have a problem that's been brewing for a long time.
Contact a reliable Dearborn company to repair your window if you find that your window is leaking. They'll complete a full evaluation and tell you if the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's an issue with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's better to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs they'll be able to provide you with advice on how to take care of your windows in the future.
Fogged Up Windows
Foggy windows can be more than just a visual issue. They can also create an energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is condensation of water vapor on a cold surface, such as glass. This happens naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, especially in a home where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.
One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier close to the window, which can assist in removing some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the underlying problem of a broken window seal and won't stop future fogging.
Another popular remedy is to make holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensate that is trapped. This is a viable option, but it is expensive and is only cosmetically correct. It does not replace the inert gases between the panes. It will leave stains and deposits behind.
There are many reasons why windows with double panes can begin to get a little cloudy. The seal may be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is 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 windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it might be too late for an claim.
The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems due to faulty sealing. This will give clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, and other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy bills. The best way to be sure you purchase an excellent window is to work with an experienced window installer. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, like higher heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues.
upvc window repairs drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These cracks let cold air in and warm air to exit your home, which increases the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, the wood can expand and contract, which causes the seals to break down. 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 is costly to fix, and may require the services of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint drafty windows can help in determining the location where a cold leak is coming from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the air draft.
Some drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you'll need to replace them.