How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows are broken due to a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can fix your window back into working order by doing just a few simple steps.

The easiest fix is to use 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 cracked or broken glass window can cause more just a unsightly appearance. It can also let rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned, this could be particularly harmful as it damages 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. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, whereas the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack, window repairs also known as a pressure fracture, is recognized by its curving form that resembles an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations particularly in winter months, or when the glass is subject to excessive pressure.

If you have a window damaged or cracked there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out while you work on a longer-term solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution is not very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.

For a longer-lasting option, you can use glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works in your home. You can buy this online or at most auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more work, but can last several years and keep the crack from becoming more severe. Depending on the condition of your window you may want to consult an expert.

Water Infiltration

When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to water stains, mold and other damages. It is time to contact an expert if you notice water spots or stains on the wall surrounding a window. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window entirely.

Leaks around windows are usually caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.

It is important to inspect both the interior and exterior of your house 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 has been coming from outside your window for a while.

A high-quality caulking job will help to fix numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In certain situations, this may not be enough to stop a leak particularly if it's a long-term issue.

Contact a reputable Dearborn company to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They'll be able to conduct a thorough assessment and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or if it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they will give you advice about how to keep your windows in good condition.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows can be more than just a visual issue. They could also be a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface like glass. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

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

Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be effective. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes and will leave behind stains and deposits on the window.

There are a variety of reasons why windows with double panes can become hazy. The seal can be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However the window that you have been in use for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it might be too late for an claim.

The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems with a faulty sealing. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy costs. A window contractor who is skilled will ensure that you receive an excellent window. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is durable and reliable.

Drafty Windows

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

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can cause drafts. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fall apart. This is often corrected by re-caulking seals or re-caulking them.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double or Window Repairs triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This could be 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 could be used to identify the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the upvc window repairs's frame and you should take note of any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.

Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help to eliminate some drafts. However, more advanced problems with your window seals or panes may require a full replacement. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement service to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. This is the only way to know that you'll save on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for free! We look forward to getting in touch with you!