How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety. You can often restore your window by following a few simple steps.

Tape is the most efficient method to fix any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.

Cracked or broken panes

A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage as they can ruin the insulation provided by the glass, and make your furnace or air conditioner work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.

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

Stress cracks can also develop between the outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature variations, particularly in winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks like these.

There are several quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes to keep out rain, wind and insects while you think of a permanent solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't particularly attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford a more permanent fix.

To make a long-lasting choice you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works in your home. You can purchase it online or at most auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is a little more labor intensive, but it can last for many years and keep the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional depending on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

If a window leaks it can affect the appearance of your home. It can also lead to mold, water stains, and other damage. It is time to contact a professional if you notice spots or water stains on the walls around the window. In some cases it may be required that the window be replaced.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the use of certain materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the home.

If you do spot leaks, it's essential to examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood that surrounds the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these problems it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a while.

A quality caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is essential to wash the area thoroughly first to ensure that the caulking is sealed. In certain situations, this may not be enough to stop a leak especially if it's an ongoing issue.

If you discover that your window is leaky and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair company. They'll perform a thorough evaluation and tell you whether the leak is caused by the window or if it's an issue with the siding, roof or gutters or the wall itself. They can also help you decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll provide advice on how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, and forms fog. This happens naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the root cause of a damaged window seal and won't stop future fogging.

Another option is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a pantyhose and then make holes in your window to eliminate the trapped condensation. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is merely cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.

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

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for more than ten years and is now hazy it could be too late to make a claim.

The most effective way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. There are other advantages, including warmer homes and lower cost of energy. The best method to make sure you get an excellent window is to work with an experienced window contractor. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious issues, including higher heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that are around the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks allow warm air to 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.

A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fall apart. 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 a weak seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This is a costly issue to fix and could require the assistance of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

Using the flame from a candle to locate the drafty windows can be helpful in determining the source of a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help remove drafts. However, more advanced issues with your window seals or panes could require a complete replacement. It's important to consult with an experienced window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. This is the only way to be sure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year long! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a no-cost estimates! We look forward to hearing from you!