How to Repair a Window

Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. Most of the time you can fix your window back in functioning condition by following just a few simple steps.

Tape is the most efficient method to repair any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Broken or cracked panes

A damaged or cracked window isn't just ugly it can also cause air leaks in your home, allowing bugs, rain and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage because they can destroy the insulation created by the glass and make your AC or furnace work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks in your windows can occur from a number of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall from an object hitting the glass, or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains in place. This type of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be distinguished by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter or excessive pressure on the glass may cause cracks of this kind.

If you have a window that is cracked or broken there are a few quick solutions to keep wind, water and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty however it will keep your home dry and warm until you are able to tackle a more permanent repair.

To make a long-lasting choice, you can use glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used in your home. You can purchase it online or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This type of fix requires more work, but can last several years and keep the crack from getting any worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional, based on the severity of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can ruin the look of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to contact an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the walls around the window. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.

Leaks around windows are typically caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials, such as housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the house.

If you find a leak, it is essential to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window as well as damp walls and sills as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these issues, it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for a while.

A quality caulking job can resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. It may not be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have a problem that has been going on for a while.

Contact a trustworthy Dearborn business to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window itself or if it's a problem with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They can also advise you if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it's better sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they will provide you with advice on how to care for your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface such as glass. It can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, particularly in homes where humidity is high. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks appearing on the window.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a broken seal, and it won't prevent future window fogging.

Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the condensation that has been trapped. This can be effective but it's costly and only an aesthetic fix. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

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

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, when the window is in your home for ten or twenty years and has become foggy it's probably beyond the scope of a warranty claim.

The best option to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a brand new high-quality window that does not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy bills. A window contractor who is skilled will ensure that you get the best window. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are accurate and will install a window that is durable and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps around the frame and window panes. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may cause drafts. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing the seals to break down. Often, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue that requires a professional upvc repair window repairs; my latest blog post, company in Glenview, or other local areas.

Utilizing the flame of candles to pinpoint drafty windows can help in determining where a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more advanced issues with your window seals or panes will likely need a complete replacement. Get in touch with a window replacement expert to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. You can only reduce your energy bill if consult with an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!