If you've got shattered glass sitting in your wall or spread across the ground, then you probably don't need to be told that you need an appointment for window repair, but not all the warning signs are so obvious. Many property owners in Summerville don't even know that they could benefit from window repair services, because they don't know how to recognize the signs of damage.
Chips and Cracks
Sometimes, small changes in the weather, minor impacts or other subtle problems will lead to minor damage that doesn't result in a full break. Anything like a crack or chip might not be a problem that requires immediate emergency service, but it's still a sign that you need an appointment for window repair in Summerville, SC.
Over time, small chips and cracks will spread across the entire surface of the glass, creating a spider web of damage that obstructs visibility and lowers home value. That damage could also let air escape or let moisture in, which could result in higher energy bills or increase your home's risk of developing moisture issues like wood rot.
In most situations, damaged glass must be replaced, but getting that replacement done is always better than waiting for damage to get worse. It's also possible to repair small cracks and chips without replacing the entire unit—if that is the safest option for your property.
Foggy Glass
Fogging is a potential problem that affects double and triple-pane windows in Summerville. The issue is caused by faults or damage with the airtight seals between the separate panes. Over time, it's natural for those seals to degrade or fail as a result of exposure to moisture and direct sunlight. As those seals deteriorate, air and moisture are allowed into the isolated barriers between the panes, which results in fogging.
While there are specialized techniques that can be used to stop fog, the best solution is usually to replace the window itself, as the problem could appear again. It's also possible to replace just the insulated glass unit (IGU)—the section that contains the glass and airtight seal.
Condensation
Condensation is a similar problem to fog, and when it comes to double or triple-pane units, the cause is quite similar—broken seals. However, condensation can also affect single pane windows in Summerville. In either case, condensation is often a sign that the time has come for repairs or replacement.
It's also important to know that condensation could be caused by issues other than damage, such as warm air from your home touching the cold surface of a single-pane unit. In that case, repairs may not be necessary, as that's simply a common occurrence for exterior single-pane glass on colder days in Summerville.
Unfortunately, even if your condensation is a natural result of warm and cold air meeting on single-pane units, that doesn't mean it's a harmless problem. Condensation is basically moisture buildup, and frequent condensation could lead to the need for repairs to fix muntins, mullions or other parts of your frame that have been damaged by moisture.
Higher Levels of Noise
Windows aren't just supposed to keep out air. They're also supposed to keep out noise. If your old windows are failing to keep out all the noise from your street in Summerville, you may want to consider getting repairs.
It's possible that the caulking or seals around the edge of your frame may simply be damaged and letting in more sound than usual. However, if you have older units, then the soundproof capabilities of your frame or glass may simply be lower than modern alternatives. In that case, replacement may be a better choice than repairs.
Drafts
Does wind blow through your property, even when everything is shut? That's another common sign that you need window repair in Summerville. Those drafts are affecting more than just your comfort, and fixing the issues that cause them will have many benefits.
It could be possible that older hardware is preventing your casement unit from closing properly or there could be problems with your seals that are causing drafts. In the case of drafts coming from units that don't open, the issue could be with seals or you could have undetected damage like chips and cracks.
Your Windows Are Hard to Open and Close
Windows should crank or slide open with ease, but that's not always the case for many properties in Summerville. Issues with opening and closing your windows should absolutely be addressed. Not only will they cause constant frustration, but they could also be cutting off essential emergency exits—especially if the issues are affecting a basement window.
In some cases, it's possible to fix problems like these by repairing or replacing older hardware, which is often an effective solution for casement models. For sliding and double hung windows in Summerville, the problem could be related to dirt built up in the tracks, in which case, a thorough cleaning may be all that's needed.
Issues with warped frames and other kinds of severe damage could also create this kind of repair problem in Summerville. In those situations, replacement is often the most cost-effective option. It's also important to investigate that problem further and resolve any underlying issues that may be related to that damage.
Higher Energy Bills
Maintaining your energy efficiency is one of the most important reasons to make an appointment for window repair in Summerville. Those units have a direct connection to the overall energy efficiency of an entire building, and there are many ways that they affect energy costs. That's why some types of damage that reduce the energy efficiency of your windows will also gradually increase your energy costs.
If you notice a steady increase on your energy bills that isn't related to seasonal weather changes in Summerville or another situation that you know about, then you may want to check all the windows around your home for other signs that you need service from a knowledgeable glass repair professional.
