How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows break due to a variety. You can often repair your window by following a few easy steps.

The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but are more durable.

Broken or cracked panes

A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly it can also cause an air leak in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to get into. If your upvc window repairs is double-paned, this can be especially damaging as it ruins the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks in your windows can result from a variety of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and is identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is placed under excessive pressure.

There are a few quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out rain, wind and bugs until you consider a long-term solution. You can use a piece cut to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution is not very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.

If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Then, follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This type of fix requires more effort however it can last for several years and stop the crack from getting any worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional based on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When windows leak, it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to contact a professional if you notice water stains or spots on the wall surrounding a window. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the use of materials like housewrap or building paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not pitched downward to drain water away from the house.

It is important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your home if you notice a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these issues, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing for a while.

A quality caulking job will help to resolve many small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid 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.

If you notice that your window is leaked, it is important to call a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and tell you if the leak is due to the window itself or if it's a problem with the siding, roof, gutters or wall itself. They can also advise you whether it's worth trying to fix the window, nearby or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they will provide advice on how to care for your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly issue. They can also pose a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface such as glass. It can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in a home 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 may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help to remove some of the moisture from the air. It does not solve the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won't prevent further fogging.

Another option is to make holes in the window and then use a drain snake encased in pantyhose to clean out the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that is efficient. It is not a replacement for the inert gases that are between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits.

There are several reasons why windows with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded, or pressure washing may cause the window to break and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but if the window has been in your house for ten or twenty-five years and is now hazy, it's likely to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.

The best option to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new high-quality window that does not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like a warm home and lower cost of energy. The best way to make sure you get the best quality windows is to partner with an experienced window contractor. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows of your home can cause major issues, including higher heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues within your home. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps around the window panes and frame. These cracks let cold air in and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.

A draft in a windows can also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing seals to fail. This is often fixed by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.

A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This could be an expensive issue to fix, and may require the services of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.

Using the flame from 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 areas where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.

Some drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious issues with your window seals or panes could require a complete replacement. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. You can only save money on your energy bill if you seek out an experienced window replacement company. Contact Arch Design to learn 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!