How to Repair a Window
It could be from baseball players or wind in the night, windows are broken due to a variety of reasons. In most cases you can fix your window back in good working order by following a few easy steps.
The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A broken or cracked glass window can result in more than just an unsightly appearance. It can also allow wind, rain and insects to enter your home. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows can be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall that hits the glass, or pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure crack, is identified by its curved shape that is similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.
If you have a window that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. You can use a piece cut 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 an even more permanent fix.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows in vehicles. It works at home too. You can buy this adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This type of fix will require more effort, but can last several years and keep the crack from getting any worse. You might want to consult with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home. It can also lead to mold, water stains and other damage. If you notice water spots or stains on the wall near the window, it's probably time to call a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the window entirely.
Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of inferior materials, such as construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downwards to let the water drain away from the house.
It is crucial to examine both the interior and exterior of your home if you notice the presence of a leak. Examine for signs of rot in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills, and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these signs, it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for a while.
A quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a solid seal. It may not be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you have an issue that has been going on for a long time.
Contact window repairs near me for window repair if discover that your window leaks. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and let you know if the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's a problem with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They can also tell you whether it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's more sense to replace it. After the experts 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 not simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, such as glass, forming fog. This happens naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a house 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.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in pantyhose and make holes in your window to release the condensate that is trapped. This is a viable option but it's costly and is merely an aesthetic fix. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.
There are a variety of reasons double-pane windows can begin to get a little cloudy. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded or pressure washing can cause the break, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and has become hazy, it might be too late to file an claim.
The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from issues with the seal being defective. This will provide clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and many other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. Employing a window installer who is experienced will ensure that you get an excellent window. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, reliable window.
Drafty Windows
The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, like higher heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort and health issues within your home. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These cracks let cold air in and warm air out of your home, causing you to have to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
A draft in a window could be caused by issues with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is often corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them.
The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This can be an expensive issue that requires professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.
Using the flame from candles to pinpoint a drafty window can help determine the location where a cold leak is coming from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame bends or flickers. This can help you find the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows could be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more complex issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require a full replacement. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year long! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate at no cost! We look forward hearing from you!