How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows break due to a variety of reasons. In most cases you can fix your window back into functioning condition by following just a few simple steps.

The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass door repair film that is similar to tape but is more robust.

Broken or cracked panes

A cracked or broken glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned, it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks can develop in your windows due to a variety of reasons, including the weather and impacts. A fall from an object hitting the glass, or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be distinguished by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is placed under excessive pressure.

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

If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive, which is usually used for windows in vehicles but can also be used at home. You can purchase it 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, but it will last for a few years and prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with a professional.

Water Infiltration

If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your home, and can cause water stains, mold and other damages. It is time to call in an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the walls around a window. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.

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

It is essential to check both the interior and exterior of your home if you discover the presence of a leak. Check for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these issues it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for some time.

A quality caulking job will assist in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is essential to wash the area thoroughly to ensure a seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage especially if you have an issue that has been going on for a long time.

Contact a reputable Dearborn firm for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They'll be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you whether the leak is due to the window itself or if it is an issue with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also tell you whether it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and made the upvc door repairs near me, they'll be able provide you with suggestions on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface like glass. This can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, especially in a home where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

A common solution for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which could assist in removing some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhoses to clear the condensate that is trapped. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is efficient. It is not a replacement for the inert gas between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.

There are several reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal due to sanding around the frames or pressure washing may cause the break and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows, but in the event that the window has been in your home for ten or twenty years and has become foggy it's probably to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.

The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new, high-quality window that will not be affected by a faulty seal. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. There are other advantages, including an insulated home and lower energy bills. A window contractor who is experienced will ensure you get the best window. A reputable contractor will make sure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is durable and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious problems, like higher heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The cracks or gaps that are around the window frame and panes can cause drafts. These gaps let cold air in and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window could be caused by issues with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is typical in older windows with 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.

Another common reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This could be costly to fix and may require the help of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to identify a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should take note of any areas that the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the air draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping can help to eliminate some drafts. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will require replacement. Consult with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills all year long! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a an estimate for free! We look forward hearing from you!