How to Repair a Window

Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including the wind or children playing baseball. You can often get your window working again by following a few easy steps.

The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more durable.

Cracked or broken panes

A broken or cracked window isn't just ugly but it could also cause an air leak in your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to get into. If your window is double-paned this could be particularly harmful as it damages the insulation the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature inside your home.

Cracks in your windows could result from a variety of factors, install including impact and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass, or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break, whereas the inner pane remains in place. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and is identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of double glazed window repairs pane windows. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is subject to the pressure of a high level.

There are a few quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out wind, water and bugs until you consider a long-term solution. You can use a piece cut to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.

You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows on vehicles. It will work at home as well. You can purchase it online or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is more labor-intensive, however it can last for many years and will keep the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional, based on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can damage the appearance of your home and cause mold, water stains and other damage. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near the window, it's likely time to contact an expert to assess and fix the issue. In some instances it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.

Leaks around windows are typically caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, such as housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the house.

If you do spot leaks, it's crucial to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Examine for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these signs, it is likely that the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing for a while.

A good caulking job can aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is essential to wash the area thoroughly first to ensure a tight seal. It may not be enough to stop the leakage, especially if you have a problem that's been brewing for a while.

Contact a reliable Dearborn business for window repair if you discover that your window leaks. They'll be able to perform a thorough evaluation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it's a problem with the siding, roof or gutters or the wall itself. They can also advise you if it's worth attempting to fix the window, or if it's more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they'll give you advice about how to keep your windows in good condition.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than simply ugly, they could be a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface like glass. It can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a broken seal, and won't stop future window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes, and can leave stains and traces of rust behind.

There are several reasons why a window with double panes may fog. The seal could be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. 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 repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it could be too late to file claims.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window will not have problems with a faulty sealing. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower utility bills. A window contractor with experience will ensure that you receive a quality window. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, like the increase in heating costs during winter and increased cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes can cause drafts. These gaps let warm air escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood may expand and contract, causing seals to break down. Most of the time, this is remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This could be a costly issue and may require professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate a drafty window can be helpful in determining the location where a cold leak is coming from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window 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 may help eliminate some drafts. However, more serious issues with the seals on your windows or install panes could require a complete replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed properly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year round! Call 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 hearing from you!