How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows are broken due to a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can fix your window back into working order by doing some simple steps.

The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more robust.

Broken or cracked Panes

A damaged or cracked window isn't just unsightly - it can also create an air leak in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to get into. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.

Cracks can develop in your windows due to a variety of factors, including the weather and impacts. A fall that hits the glass, or pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack and is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter, or if the glass is subject to the pressure of a high level.

If you have a window that is cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can use a piece cut to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to tackle a more permanent repair.

To make a long-lasting choice you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is a bit more labor intensive, but it can last for several years and prevent the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional based on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

If a window is damaged, it can damage the appearance of your house, and cause mold, water stains and other damages. If you notice water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to windows, it's probably time to call a professional to inspect and fix the issue. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.

Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of low-quality materials like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to drain the water away from the home.

If you find leaks, it is essential to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood surrounding the window, damp walls and sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these issues it's likely that the leak is emanating from the outside of your window for some time.

A quality caulking job will help to resolve many small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking yourself however you'll need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. In some instances it might not be enough to stop a leak especially if it's an ongoing issue.

If you notice that your window is leaky, it is important to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair company. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also assist you to decide if it is worth trying to repair the window or window repairs if it's better to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs they'll be able provide suggestions on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are not simply ugly, they could be a serious energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, to form fog. It can happen naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, especially in a home where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on windows.

The most common method for fogging windows is to install a dehumidifier close to the window, which could aid in eliminating some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another option is to wrap a drain-snake in a pantyhose and then drill holes in your window to eliminate the trapped condensation. This can be effective but it's costly and is merely an aesthetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are many reasons why double-pane windows can begin to get a little cloudy. The seal can be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and is now hazy it may be too late to make an claim.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, and other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best way to make sure you get 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, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, like the increase in heating costs during winter and higher cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes can create drafts. 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 work harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also cause a draft. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, causing the seals to break down. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

Another common reason for drafty windows is that the seal between 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 an experienced window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

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

Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help remove drafts. However, more complex issues with the seals on your windows or panes may need a complete replacement. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. You will save money on your energy bill if consult with an expert upvc window repairs replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a an estimate for free! We look forward to hearing from you!