Dena Nazario ha scritto 4 mesi fa
How to Repair a Window
Windows can break for many reasons, such as children playing baseball or wind. You can often repair your window 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 durable.
Cracked or broken panes
A damaged or cracked window isn’t just ugly but it could also cause an air leak in your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. If your window is double-paned this can be especially damaging as it ruins the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.
Cracks in your windows can occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home can cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, is recognized by its curving form that resembles an hourglass.
Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature variations particularly in winter, or if the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure.
If you have a window damaged or cracked, there are some short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window for example, a piece of plastic shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This isn’t very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.
You can also apply glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows in vehicles. It will work at home as well. You can purchase it online or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more work however it can last for several years and prevent the crack from becoming more severe. You may want to consult with a professional depending on the severity of the crack in your window.
Water Infiltration
When a window leaks it can damage the appearance of your home, and can cause water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call in an expert if you notice water spots or stains on the wall around a window. In some cases it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.
Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of poor quality materials, such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the home.
It is essential to check both the interior and exterior of your home if you spot a leak. Look for areas of rot in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these signs it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been leaking for some time.
A high-quality caulking job can resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own however you’ll need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. In some cases it might not suffice to stop a leak especially if it’s a long-term issue.
Contact a reputable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able to provide an assessment of the entire situation and tell you if the leak is caused by the window or window replacement is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also help you determine if it’s worth attempting to repair the window or if it would make more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the upvc repairs they’ll be able to provide advice on how you can take care of your windows in the future.
The windows are smudges. Up Windows
Foggy windows are not just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface like glass. This happens naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. When windows become foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on windows.
Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the underlying problem of a broken window seal and won’t stop future fogging.
Another method is to drill holes into the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. This is a viable option however it is costly and is merely an aesthetic fix. It doesn’t replace the inert gases between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.
There are many reasons why double-pane windows can start to fog. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the break, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.
Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but if the window has been in your house for ten or twenty years and has become foggy you’re probably beyond the scope of an insurance claim.
The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not have any problems with an ineffective seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower cost of energy. The best method to make sure you have the best quality windows is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, dependable window.
Drafty Windows
Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps around the frame and window panes. These gaps allow warm air to escape from your home, while allowing cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your AC or furnace to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also cause a draft. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, causing the seals to fail. This can often be repaired by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.
A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This is a costly issue and may require professional help from a window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.
The flame of a candle can be used to locate a drafty or cold window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame, and note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.
Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help to remove drafts. If your window seals are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will need to replace them. Get in touch with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to be sure that you’ll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We’re happy for you to get an estimate for free! We look forward to hearing from you!