How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. You can often get your window working again by following a few easy steps.

Tape is the simplest 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 window isn't just unsightly it can also cause an air leak inside your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to enter. If the window is double-paned this can be especially harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks in windows can be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall hitting the glass, or pressure changes within your home, can cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack, also known as a pressure fracture can be recognized by its curving form that is similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane windows. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly in winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks like these.

If you have a window that is cracked or broken There are a few short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window repair, such as an insulated shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This isn't the most attractive solution, but it will help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.

You can also use the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows on vehicles. It will work at home as well. You can buy this online or at most auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is a little more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and will prevent the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak 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 Window Repair also cause mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to contact an expert if you notice water stains or spots on the wall around a window. In certain cases, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are typically caused by poor installation or the use of inferior materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downwards to drain the water away from the home.

It is important to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house when you discover a leak. Examine for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these signs it is likely the leak originates outside your window and has been running for a while.

A quality caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In some instances it might not be enough to stop leaks, especially if it is an ongoing issue.

If you find that your window is leaked, it is important to call a reputable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able complete a full assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also help you determine if it is worth attempting to repair the window or if it would make more sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the 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 more than just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface like glass. It can happen naturally when warm, humid air from the home is paired with cold air. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on windows.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the root issue of a broken window seal and won't stop future fogging.

Another option is to make holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhoses to clear the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective but it's costly and is only cosmetically correct. It does not replace the inert gases that are between the panes. It will leave stains and traces of rust behind.

There are several reasons why windows with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the crack, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and is now foggy it might be too late to make a claim.

The most effective way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window won't have issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and other advantages like a warmer home and lower utility bills. Working with a window contractor who is experienced will ensure that you get a quality window. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious issues, including the increase in heating costs during winter and more expensive cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even 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 pass through and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is often repaired by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.

Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue and may require professional help from a window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to identify a drafty or cold window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any places where the flame bends or flickers. This will help you determine the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more complex problems with your window seals or panes could require a full replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide a free estimate! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!