How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can get your window back into functioning condition by following just a few simple steps.

The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape, but is more durable.

Broken or cracked Panes

A broken or cracked glass window can result in 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 degrade the insulation provided by the glass, and make your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall that hits the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, can cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be distinguished by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane windows. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly in winter, or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to these types of cracks.

There are a few quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes to keep out rain, wind and insects while you plan a permanent solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to make a permanent repair.

If you want a more durable option, you can use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works at home. You can purchase it online or at many auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair requires more effort however it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional depending on the severity of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it could ruin the appearance of your house, and cause mold, water stains and other damage. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near a window, it is probably time to call an expert to look into and repair the problem. In some cases it may be required that the window be replaced.

The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is a poor installation or improper use of materials like housewrap or building paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the house.

It is important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your home if you notice the presence of a leak. Look for areas of rot in the wood that surrounds the window as well as damp walls and sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these problems, it is likely that the leak is coming from outside your window and has been leaking for some time.

A high-quality caulking job will help to fix numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a good seal. In some cases it might not be enough to stop a leakage, especially if it is a long-term issue.

Contact a reputable Dearborn firm for window repair if find that your window is leaking. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is with the roof, window repairs siding or gutters. They will also assist you to determine if it is worth trying to repair the window or whether it is more sensible to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they will provide advice on how to maintain your windows.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows can be more than just an unattractive problem. They can also pose an energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, such as glass, and forms fog. This happens naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a home where humidity is high. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. It does not solve the underlying problem of a broken window seal and won't stop future fogging.

Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in pantyhose and drill holes into your window to remove the trapped condensation. This can be effective but it's costly and is merely cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gases that are between the panes. It will leave stains and traces of rust behind.

There are a variety of reasons why windows with double panes can become hazy. The seal could be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed air/gas has degraded with time, particularly in older homes.

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

The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will provide clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower energy costs. The best way to make sure you get the best quality windows is to hire an experienced window repairs contractor. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious problem that can raise your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts result from gaps or cracks around the window panes and frame. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air to leave your home, which increases the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may cause drafts. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. This is usually fixed by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.

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

The flame of a candle could be used to identify 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 can help to reduce drafts. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you will need to replace them. Consult with an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. You can only reduce your energy bill if you seek out an experienced window replacement company. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide an estimate for free! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!