How to Repair a Window

It could be from baseball players or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. Most of the time, you can get your window back in functioning condition by following a few easy steps.

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

Cracked or broken panes

A broken or cracked window isn't just unsightly it can also cause an air leak inside your home that allows bugs, rain, and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage, as they can ruin the insulation provided by the glass and cause your furnace or air conditioner work harder to maintain a a comfortable home temperature.

Cracks in your windows can occur from a number of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack and is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of windows with double panes. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations particularly in winter months, or when the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure.

There are a few quick solutions for window repairs broken or cracked window panes to keep out wind, water and bugs until you consider a long-term solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.

If you want a more durable option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used at home. You can buy this online or at most auto maintenance stores, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is a bit more labor-intensive, but it can last for many years and can prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you may want to consult a professional.

Water Infiltration

When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to contact an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the walls around the window. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.

The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the incorrect use of materials such as housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to let the water drain away from the home.

If you find a leak, it is important to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Check for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these signs it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been running for a while.

A quality caulking job will help to fix numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking by yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage, especially if you have a problem that's been brewing for a long time.

If you notice that your window is leaking and you notice that it is leaking, it is essential to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able complete an exhaustive assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window or if it is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also tell you if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly problem. They can also pose an energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface, such as glass. It can happen naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks appearing on the window.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help remove some of that moisture from the air. It does not solve the root cause of a damaged window seal and won't prevent further fogging.

Another option is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and make holes in your window to remove the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It won't replace the gas in between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.

There are a few reasons why a window with double panes may fog. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed air/gas has degraded with time, especially older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to replace or repair defective thermal windows, but when the window has been in your home for ten or twenty years and is now foggy it's probably beyond the scope of a warranty claim.

The best option 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 give clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, and many other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy costs. A window repairs near me contractor who is skilled will ensure that you receive the best window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues in your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These cracks let warm air escape your home and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and window repairs shrink and cause seals to fail. This can often be repaired by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.

Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This can be an expensive problem and could require a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

The flame of a candle can be used to locate the cold or drafty windows. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame, and note any areas where the flame bends or flickers. This will help you determine the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and adding weather stripping may help reduce drafts. However, more serious issues with your window seals or panes could require a full replacement. It is important to speak with an experienced window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. You can only save money on your energy bill if you contact an expert window repairs replacement company. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a an estimate for free! We're looking forward to hearing from you!