How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. It is possible to door repair your window by following a few simple steps.

Tape is the simplest method to repair any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more robust.

Cracked or Broken Panes

A broken or cracked glass window can cause more than just an unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely detrimental as it destroys the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a the temperature of your home.

Cracks in windows can occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall hitting the glass, or pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is known as 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 a double pane window. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly in winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks of this kind.

If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you work on a longer-term solution. You could cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford a more permanent fix.

If you want a more durable option, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for windows in vehicles but also works in your home. You can buy this online or at many auto maintenance stores, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to talk to an expert.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks it could ruin the appearance of your home and can cause mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you spot water spots or stains on the wall around a window. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are typically due to poor Window Repair installation or the use of low-quality materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to let the water drain away from the home.

If you do spot leaks, it's crucial to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these problems it is likely the leak originates outside your window and has been leaking for some time.

A well-executed caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly first to ensure a tight seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have an issue that has been going on for a long time.

Contact a reliable Dearborn business for window repair if discover that your window leaks. They will be able to provide a full assessment and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also tell you whether it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they will give you advice about how to care for your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface like glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which can help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not address the underlying problem of a broken window seal and won't prevent further fogging.

Another method is to drill holes in the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes and will still leave stains and traces of rust behind.

There are many reasons why a double-pane window may begin to fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing can cause the break, and it is possible that the gas/air seal has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but when the window has been in your house for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it's probably past the point of a warranty claim.

The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and many other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy costs. The best way to make sure you have an excellent window is to work with an experienced window installer. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious issues, including higher heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues within your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the window panes and frame. These gaps let warm air escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your AC or furnace to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can cause drafts. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes the wood will expand and contract, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This could be a costly problem and could require professional help from a window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate drafty windows can be helpful in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you determine the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious issues with your window seals or panes will likely need a complete replacement. It is important to speak with an experienced window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed properly. You can only save money on your energy bill if you consult with an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate at no cost! We look forward hearing from you!