How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. You can usually repair your window by following a few simple steps.

Tape is the simplest method to fix any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Cracked or broken Panes

A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly but it could also cause an air leak in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to enter. If your window is double-paned, it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.

Cracks can develop in your windows due to a range of factors, including weather conditions and impact. 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 inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is called a pressure crack. It is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is subject to excessive pressure.

If you have a window that has cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out until you plan a more permanent solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't the most attractive solution however it will keep your home warm and dry until you are able to tackle a more permanent repair.

You can also use the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows in vehicles. It works at home as well. You can purchase this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more effort however it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting any more severe. It is recommended to speak with a professional based on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can ruin the look of your home. It can also lead to mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you spot water spots or stains on the wall surrounding a window. In some cases it may be required that the window be replaced.

Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of poor quality materials, like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to let the water drain away from the house.

It is crucial to examine both the inside and exterior of your house if you notice a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues, it's likely that the leak is emanating from the outside of your window for a while.

A well-executed caulking job will help to resolve many small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a good seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have a problem that has been brewing for a long time.

Contact a reliable Dearborn firm for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They will be able to provide an assessment of the entire situation and installation let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's more sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the repairs, they will be able to provide you with tips on how to care for your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive problem. They could also be an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface, like glass. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, particularly in a house where humidity is high. When window panes get foggy, they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on windows.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the underlying problem of a window seal that is broken and won't prevent further fogging.

Another method is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a hose and make holes in your window to eliminate the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is only cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes, and can leave stains and traces of rust behind.

There are a variety of reasons windows with double panes can start to fog. The seal can be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, especially older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows, but when the window has been in your home for ten or twenty-five years and is now foggy you're probably past the point of an insurance claim.

The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new high-quality, durable window that will not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower cost of energy. A window contractor who is skilled will ensure you get an excellent window. A reputable contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health problems within your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks let cold air in and warm air to leave your home, causing you to have to use your air conditioner or furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fall apart. This is usually corrected by re-caulking seals or re-caulking them.

Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue and may require professional help from a window company in Glenview or installation other nearby areas.

Using the flame from candles to pinpoint a drafty upvc window repair can be helpful in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you determine the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. If your window seals are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will require replacement. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed properly. You will save money on your energy bill if consult with an expert window replacement company. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our sash window repair replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate for you at no cost! We look forward getting in touch with you!