How to Repair a Window

Windows can break for a variety of reasons, like wind or kids playing baseball. You can often 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 durable.

Cracked or Broken Panes

A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly but it could also cause air leaks in your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. If the window is double-paned this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation that the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.

Cracks in windows can occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture, can be identified by its curving shape that resembles an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane windows. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature variations especially in winter months, or when the glass is subject to an excess amount of pressure.

There are some quick solutions for broken or cracked windows to block rain, wind, and bugs while you plan a 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 make a permanent repair.

To make a long-lasting choice you can opt for glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work in your home. You can purchase it online or at many auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor intensive, but it can last for many years and will stop the crack from becoming worse. You may want to consult with a professional, based on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it could ruin the appearance of your house, and cause water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you notice water stains or spots on the walls around the window. In certain cases, it may be necessary to replace the window entirely.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is improper installation or improper use of certain materials like building paper or housewrap instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the home.

It is important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your house when you notice an issue with water. Look for areas of rot in the wood that surrounds the window, damp walls and sills as well as paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these problems, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for some time.

A quality caulking job can help resolve many minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a good seal. This might not be enough to stop the leak, especially if you have a problem that's been going on for a long time.

If you discover that your window is leaky and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to call 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 tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs they'll be able to provide tips on how to care for your windows in the future.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface, like glass. It can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help to remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another method is to make holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the trapped condensation. 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 still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

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

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and has become hazy, it might be too late to make an claim.

The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new high-quality, durable window that will not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy costs. The best way to make sure you get the best quality windows is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are accurate and will install a window that is durable and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, such as increased heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes can create drafts. These gaps let warm air escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing 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 could also cause a draft. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fail. Most of the time, this is repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in double glazed window repairs or triple paned windows has broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This can be a costly issue to fix, and may require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to find an unheated or drafty window. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you find the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes are damaged, you'll need to replace them. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. 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 at no cost! We look forward getting in touch with you!