How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. You can usually repair your window by following a couple of simple steps.

The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.

Cracked or broken panes

A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly - it can also create an air leak inside your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage, as they can ruin the insulation provided by the glass, and make your furnace or AC work more hard to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.

Cracks in windows can result from a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall from an object striking the glass or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure fracture can be recognized by its curving form that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature variations, particularly in winter or excessive pressure on the glass may cause these types of cracks.

If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken there are a few quick solutions to keep wind, water and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window like an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home dry and warm until you're able to make a permanent repair.

For a longer-lasting option, you can use glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work in your home. You can buy this online or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor-intensive, but it can last for many years and prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with an expert.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks it can ruin the appearance of your home, and can cause mold, water stains and other damages. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near windows, it's probably time to call a professional to inspect and fix the issue. In some cases it may be required that the window be replaced.

The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or improper use of materials such as housewrap or building paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.

It is important to inspect both the interior and exterior of your house if you notice an issue with water. Examine for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these problems it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been running for a while.

A quality caulking job will aid in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly to ensure that the caulking is sealed. It may not be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have a problem that's been going on for a long time.

Contact a trustworthy Dearborn company for window repair if 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 or if it's an issue with the siding, roof or gutters or the wall itself. They can also help you decide if it is worth trying to repair the window or if it's better to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll provide advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface such as glass. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.

One common remedy for foggy windows is to install a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which could assist in removing some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a broken seal, and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another method is to drill holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is efficient. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.

There are a few reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the crack and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows, but when the window is in your home for more than ten or twenty years and is now foggy it's probably past the point of an insurance claim.

The best way to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not be affected by an ineffective seal. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower energy bills. The best way to make sure you get an excellent window is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can increase your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health issues in your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes can cause drafts. These cracks let cold air in and warm air to leave your home, which increases the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also cause a draft. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is often corrected by re-caulking seals or replacing them.

Another common reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows is broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This is an expensive issue to fix and could require the services of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other local areas.

Using the flame from candles to pinpoint the drafty windows can help in determining the source of a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help reduce drafts. However, more complex issues with your window seals or panes may require a full replacement. Talk to an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. You will only save money on your energy bill if seek out an experienced window replacement service. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!