How to Repair a Window

Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, like wind or kids playing baseball. It is possible to get your window working again by following a few easy steps.

The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more durable.

Broken or cracked panes

A cracked or broken glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage, as they can ruin the insulation provided by the glass and make your furnace or air conditioner work more hard to maintain a comfortable home temperature.

Cracks in your windows can result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure crack, is identified by its curved shape that is similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences particularly in winter months, window repair or when the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure.

If you have a window damaged or cracked There are a few short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.

To make a long-lasting choice, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works at home. You can buy this online or at many auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is more labor-intensive, however it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to talk to an expert.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks it can ruin the appearance of your house, and cause water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to call in an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the wall around a window. In some cases it may be required that the window be replaced.

Leaks around windows are typically due to poor installation or the use of inferior materials, such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the house.

It is crucial to examine both the inside and exterior of your house when you spot an issue with water. Check for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find 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 can resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you've got a problem that's been brewing for a while.

If you find that your window is leaked, it is important to contact a reputable Dearborn window repair service. They'll complete a full evaluation and inform you whether the leak is caused by the window itself or if it's an issue with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They will also be able to tell you whether it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's better sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and made the repairs, they'll be able to give you tips on how to care for your windows in the future.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just a visual issue. They can also create an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface like glass. This happens naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on the window.

Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a broken seal, and window repair it won't prevent future 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 trapped condensation. This can be very effective but it's costly and is only cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes, and will still leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.

There are a few reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded or pressure washing could cause the window to break, and it is possible that the gas/air seal has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in use for ten or 20 years and is now foggy it could be too late for claims.

The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window will not have problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. It also has other advantages, including an insulated home and lower energy bills. Working with a window contractor who is experienced will ensure that you get the best window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, dependable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious issues, including the increase in heating costs during winter and higher cooling costs during summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health problems within your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps let warm air escape your home and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your AC or furnace to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could cause drafts. This is most common with older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood will expand and contract, causing seals to fail. This can often be repaired by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.

Another common reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double glazed window repairs or triple paned windows has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue and may require professional help from a window company 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 is coming 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 find the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help to remove drafts. However, more serious problems with your window seals or panes could require a full replacement. It is important to speak with an experienced window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed correctly. You can only reduce your energy bill if you contact an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for free! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!