How to Repair a Window

Windows can break for a variety of reasons, including wind or kids playing baseball. You can often get your window working again by following a few simple steps.

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

Cracked or Broken Panes

A broken or cracked glass window can cause more than simply a sloppy appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to enter your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage because they can destroy the insulation created by the glass and make your furnace or AC have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks can form in your windows due to a range of factors, including the weather and impact. A fall from an object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture, can be recognized by its curving form that looks like an hourglass.

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

If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. For example, you can apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window, such as a shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This solution doesn't look great, but it will help 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 use glass adhesive, which is usually used for vehicle windows but also works in your 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 upvc repair will require more effort, but can last several years and stop the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional depending on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

If a window leaks it can alter the appearance of your home. It can also lead to mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to call in an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the wall around the window. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.

Leaks around windows are often caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials, like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the house.

It is essential to check both the interior and the exterior of your house if you discover an issue with water. Examine for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues, it is likely that the leak is originating from outside your window and has been running for some time.

A good quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking yourself however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a solid seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have a problem that has been going on for a while.

Contact a reliable Dearborn business for window repair if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able complete a full assessment and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also advise you if it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's better sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll provide you with advice on how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, such as glass, forming fog. This can occur naturally when warm, humid air from the home is paired with cold air. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another method is to drill holes into the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is efficient. It does not replace the gas in between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.

There are a variety of reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. Damage to the seal due to sanding around the frames or pressure washing can cause the break, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and has become hazy, it could be too late for claims.

The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not be affected by an ineffective seal. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. Employing a window installer who is skilled will ensure that you get the best window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by gaps or cracks around the frame and window panes. These cracks let warm air escape from your home, while allowing cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. Often, this can be remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue and may require professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

The flame of a candle can be used to identify an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you identify the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help to reduce drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will have to replace them. It is essential to consult an experienced window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. You can only save money on your energy bill if contact an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!