How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. In most cases you can fix your window back in functioning condition by following a few easy steps.

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

Cracked or broken panes

A cracked or broken glass window can result in more than just an unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can ruin the insulation offered by the glass, and make your furnace or air conditioner have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

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

Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of a double glazing Mile End pane window. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature variations particularly in winter months, or when the glass is subject to the pressure of a high level.

There are some quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes to keep out rain, wind and insects while you plan a permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack, such as a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.

If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used at home. You can buy this online or at most auto maintenance stores, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of fix is a bit more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and can keep the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional based on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When windows leak, it can affect the appearance of your home and can lead to mold, water stains and other damages. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near a window, it is likely that you should call a professional to inspect and fix the issue. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window repair Dulwich entirely.

The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is poor installation or the incorrect use of certain materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not pitched downward to drain water away from the home.

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

A high-quality caulking job will help to fix several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a solid seal. This might not be enough to stop the leakage, especially if you have a problem that has been brewing for a long time.

If you notice that your window is leaky, it is important to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able to provide an assessment of the entire situation and tell you if the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding 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. Once the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they will provide advice on how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, repairmywindowsanddoors like glass, to form fog. It can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, particularly in a house 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 calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on the window.

One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which could assist in removing some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a broken seal, and it won't prevent future window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a hose and make holes in your window to remove the condensate that is trapped. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gases that are between the panes, and can leave stains and deposits behind.

There are a variety of reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal can be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, especially older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, in the event that the window is in your home for more than ten or twenty years and has become foggy, it's likely beyond the scope of an insurance claim.

The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy costs. A window contractor with experience will ensure that you receive an excellent window. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious issues, including higher heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the frame and window panes. These cracks let warm air escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your AC or furnace to perform harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

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

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 problem and could require an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate drafty windows can help determine where a cold air leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should take note of any areas that the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you find the source of the air draft.

Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more complex issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely need a complete replacement. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy-efficient and installed correctly. You will only reduce your energy bill if contact an expert window replacement company. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to give you a an estimate for free! We're looking forward to hearing from you!