How to Repair a Window
Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, such as wind or kids playing baseball. You can often restore your window by following a few easy steps.
Tape is the most efficient method to repair any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more robust.
Broken or cracked Panes
A cracked or broken glass window can cause more than just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature inside your home.
Cracks in your windows can be caused by a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall from an object striking the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is called a pressure crack and can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations especially in winter months, or when the glass is subject to the pressure of a high level.
If you have a window pane damaged or cracked, there are some short-term solutions to keep wind, water and bugs out while you think of a long-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window like an insulated shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.
You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows in vehicles. It works at home as well. You can buy this adhesive online or in many auto repair shops. Then, follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more work however it can last for several years and stop the crack from becoming more severe. You may 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 and can lead to mold, water stains, and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you spot water stains or spots on the wall surrounding a window. In certain cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.
Leaks around windows are usually caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the house.
It is important to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house if you spot an issue with water. Look for rotted wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these problems, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a while.
A quality caulking job will aid in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have an issue that has been brewing for a while.
Contact window repairs for window repair if find that your window is leaking. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also help you decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can give you advice about how to maintain your windows.
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Foggy windows can be more than just an unsightly 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. It can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on the window.
Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.
Another option is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a hose and drill holes in your window to eliminate the condensate that is trapped. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is effective. It is not a replacement for the inert gases that are between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits.
There are a few reasons why a window with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal caused by sanding around the frames or pressure washing may cause the crack and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in use for more than ten years and is now foggy it could be too late for an claim.
The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality, durable window that will not have any problems with a faulty 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 utility bills. The best way to make sure you get an excellent window is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is durable and reliable.
Drafty Windows
Drafty windows are a serious issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health problems within your home. The gaps or cracks that are around the window frame and panes can cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air to leave your home, causing you to have to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This can often be fixed by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.
Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be costly to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle could be used to identify the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should observe any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you determine the source of the draft.
Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will have to replace them. It's important to consult with an experienced window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. This is the only way to know that you'll be saving money on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!