How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows break due to a variety. Most of the time you can get your window back into good working order by following a few easy steps.

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

Broken or cracked panes

A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It could also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned this could be particularly harmful as it damages the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.

Cracks in your windows could occur from a number of factors, including impact and weather conditions. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of your window to break, whereas the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure crack, can be identified by its curving shape that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of double pane windows. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter, or if the glass is under the pressure of a high level.

There are a few quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes to keep out the elements of wind, water and bugs until you consider a long-term solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the window's crack like a piece of plastic shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.

You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows in vehicles. It will work at home too. You can purchase this adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and can prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you may want to consult a professional.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks it could ruin the appearance of your house, and cause mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to call an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the walls around the window doctor. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.

Leaks around windows are usually caused by improper installation or the use of poor quality materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downwards to let the water drain away from the home.

It is crucial to examine both the interior and exterior of your house when you notice an issue with water. Examine for signs of rot in the wood around the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these signs it is likely the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing 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 good seal. In some cases it may not be enough to stop a leakage especially if it's a long-term issue.

Contact a reputable Dearborn company to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and tell you if the leak is caused by the window itself or if it's a problem with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They can also advise you if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the repairs they'll be able provide advice on how to care for your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly problem. They could also be a serious energy efficiency issue. 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, especially in homes where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.

Another method is to drill holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the trapped condensation. This can be effective however it is costly and only a cosmetic fix. It is not a replacement for the inert gases between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.

There are a variety of reasons windows with double panes can start to fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded, or pressure washing could cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has simply degraded over time, especially in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in place for more than ten years and is now hazy it may be too late to make a claim.

The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new high-quality, durable window that will not be affected by a faulty seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like a warm home and lower energy costs. A window contractor who is skilled will ensure you get an excellent window. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues within your home. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These gaps allow cold air to enter and warm air to exit your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also cause a draft. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. In most cases, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly issue to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.

Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate the drafty windows can be helpful in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any spots where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the draft.

Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will require replacement. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. You will reduce your energy bill if you contact an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We are happy to provide a free estimate! We look forward getting in touch with you!