How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. In most cases, you can get your window back in functioning condition by following a few easy steps.

The easiest fix is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more durable.

Broken or cracked Panes

A damaged or cracked glass window can result in more than just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage because they can ruin the insulation offered by the glass, and make your furnace or AC have to work harder to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.

Cracks in windows can occur from a number of factors, including impact and weather conditions. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack. It is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass can lead to these types of cracks.

If you have a upvc window repairs pane that is cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out while you think of a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford a more permanent fix.

You can also apply glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows on vehicles. It works at home too. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of upvc repair requires more work however it can last for several years and stop the crack from getting more severe. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with a professional.

Water Infiltration

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

Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials, such as construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to allow the water to drain away from the home.

If you find a leak, it is important to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Examine for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been running for a while.

A good quality caulking job will help to fix numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a good seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage especially if you have an issue that has been going on for a long time.

Contact a reputable Dearborn business for window repair if discover that your window leaks. They will be able complete an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also advise you if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs, they'll be able provide you with suggestions on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just a visual problem. They could also be an energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, to form fog. This can occur naturally when warm, humid air in the home meets cold air. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another option is to make holes in the window and use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective but it's costly and is merely cosmetically correct. It won't replace the gas in between the panes, and will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are a variety of reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded, or pressure washing may cause the crack and it's possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for more than ten years and has become hazy, it may be too late to make claims.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not have problems due to faulty sealing. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and many other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy bills. A window contractor who is skilled will ensure you get a quality window. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can increase your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the window panes and frame. These gaps let cold air in and warm air to exit your home, which increases the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep the temperature comfortable.

A draft in a window could be caused by issues with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is most common with older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is usually fixed 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 has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is costly to fix and may require the services of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.

The flame of a candle can be used to identify the cold or drafty windows. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you find the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. However, more complex issues with your window seals or panes could need a complete replacement. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. You can only reduce your energy bill if you contact an expert window replacement company. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide an estimate for free! We're looking forward hearing from you!