How to Repair a Window

It could be from baseball players or the wind blowing through the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. It is possible to get your window working again by following a few easy steps.

The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape, but is more robust.

Cracked or Broken Panes

A damaged or cracked window isn't just ugly but it could also cause an air leak inside your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to get into. If the window is double-paned this could be particularly harmful as it damages the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.

Cracks can appear in your windows due to a variety of factors including weather conditions and impact. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or even a change in pressure within your home can cause the exterior layer of the window to break while the inner pane remains in place. This type of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of double pane windows. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter or excessive pressure on the glass can cause these types of cracks.

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

For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, window repairs but will also work at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Then, follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more work however it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting any more severe. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to talk to a professional.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can ruin the look of your home and lead to mold, water stains, and other damage. If you notice water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to a window, it is likely that you should call an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some cases it may be necessary for the window to be replaced.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the incorrect use of materials such as housewrap or construction paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled to let the water drain away from the home.

If you do spot a leak, it is important to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for signs of rot in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these signs it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for a while.

A good quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a seal. In some instances, this may not suffice to stop a leakage, especially if it is a long-term issue.

Contact a reliable Dearborn business for window repair if you find that your window is leaking. They will be able to provide a full assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also be able to tell you if it's worth attempting to fix the window, or if it makes more sense to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll give you advice about how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when warm, moist air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks on the window.

Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the root cause of a window seal that is broken and won't prevent further fogging.

Another option is to drill holes into the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be effective. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes, and it will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are a few reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal can be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, when the window is in your home for ten or twenty-five years and is now hazy it's probably past the point of a warranty claim.

The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new high-quality, durable window that will not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. There are other benefits, such as an insulated home and lower cost of energy. The best way to make sure you have an excellent window is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. The right contractor will ensure the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can increase your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes can cause drafts. These gaps let warm air escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may 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. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This can be a costly issue to fix and may require the assistance of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.

The flame of a candle could be used to locate an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any places where the flame bends or flickers. This will help you determine the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help to reduce drafts. However, more complex problems with your window seals or panes may need a complete replacement. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for free! We look forward to hearing from you!