How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. Often, you can get your window back in working order by doing just 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 broken or cracked window isn't just unsightly it can also cause an air leak in your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. If your window is double-paned, this can be especially damaging as it ruins the insulation that the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and is identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially during winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks like these.

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

If you want a more durable option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for vehicle windows but can also be used at home. You can buy the adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and prevent the crack from becoming more severe. Depending on the severity of your window, you may want to consult an expert.

Water Infiltration

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

The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is poor installation or the use of certain materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to drain the water away from the home.

If you find leaks, it is crucial to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these problems, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for some time.

A well-executed caulking job will help to resolve many small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In certain situations it may not be enough to stop a leak particularly if it's an ongoing issue.

If you discover that your window is leaking, it is important to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They'll be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window or if it's an issue with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also assist you to decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs they'll be able give you tips on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface like glass. 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 insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on windows.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits.

There are several reasons why double-pane windows can begin to fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing can cause the crack and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for more than ten or twenty years and has become hazy, it might be too late for a claim.

The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower utility bills. The best way to make sure you have an excellent window is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. window replacement near me drafts result from cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These gaps allow cold air to enter and warm air to exit your home, increasing the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can cause drafts. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. This can often be corrected by re-caulking seals or replacing them.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This is an expensive issue to fix and could require the help of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.

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

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. However, more serious problems with your window seals or panes may require a full replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed correctly. You can only reduce your energy bills if you seek out an experienced window replacement company. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We are happy to provide no-cost estimates! We look forward to getting in touch with you!