How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can fix your window back into good working order by following just a few simple steps.

Tape is the simplest method to repair any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more robust.

Broken or cracked panes

A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly but it could also cause an air leak inside your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage as they can ruin the insulation created by the glass and make your furnace or air conditioner have to work harder to maintain a comfortable home temperature.

Cracks in windows can be caused by a variety of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure crack, is identified by its curving shape that resembles an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to these types of cracks.

There are a few quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes to keep out the elements of wind, water and bugs until you plan a permanent solution. You can use a piece cut to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.

You can also use the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows on vehicles. It can be used at home as well. You can buy this online or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to talk to a professional.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks it could ruin the appearance of your house, and also cause water stains, mold, and other damage. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near the window, it's likely that you should call an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.

Leaks around windows are typically caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials, like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled to allow the water to drain away from the home.

If you do spot leaks, it's crucial to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Check for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these problems it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for a while.

A well-executed caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you've got a problem that has been going on for a long time.

Contact a reputable Dearborn business for window repair if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also advise 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 made the repairs, they'll be able give you 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 issue. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface like glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help 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 option is to use a drain-snake wrapped in pantyhose and drill holes in your window to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is merely an aesthetic fix. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will leave traces of stains and deposits on the window repairs.

There are several reasons why double-pane windows can begin to fog. The seal could be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has degraded over time, especially older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten years and is now foggy it might be too late to make an claim.

The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, top-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best method to make sure you purchase an excellent window is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will be able to provide the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious problem that can raise your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health problems in your home. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps around the frame and window panes. These cracks allow warm air to escape from your home, while allowing cold air to enter, window increasing the need for your AC or furnace to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a windows can also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, the wood can expand and contract, which causes the seals to break down. Often, this can be corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This is an expensive issue to fix, and window may require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to locate the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should take note of any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the air draft.

Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will require replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. You will save money on your energy bill if consult with 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're looking forward to hearing from you!