How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. Often you can fix your window back in working order by doing some simple steps.

The most straightforward solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but are more durable.

Cracked or Broken Panes

A broken or cracked window isn't just unattractive - it can also create an air leak in your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to get into. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage as they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass and make your furnace or AC work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks in your windows could be caused by a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. An impact from a fallen object striking the glass or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack, also known as a pressure crack, can be recognized by its curving form that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially in winter or excessive pressure on the glass can cause cracks like these.

There are a few quick fixes for broken or cracked windows to block rain, wind, and bugs while you think of a permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your upvc window repairs near me like a shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This method isn't pretty, but it will help keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to make a permanent repair.

If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used in your home. You can purchase this on the internet or at most auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you may want to consult an expert.

Water Infiltration

If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home and lead to mold, water stains, and other damage. If you spot water spots or stains on the wall near the window, it's likely that you should call an expert to look into and repair the problem. In certain cases it might be necessary to replace the window entirely.

The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the use of materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to let the water drain away from the home.

If you spot leaks, it's essential to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window as well as damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these signs, it's likely that the leak is emanating from the outside of your window for some time.

A good quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a tight seal. This might not be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you've got a problem that's been going on for a long time.

Contact a reliable Dearborn business to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and tell you if the leak is caused by the window itself or if it's an issue with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it would make more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to care for your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates on a cool surface, such as glass, forming fog. It can happen naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. When windows become foggy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or wooden Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

The most common method for fogging windows is to install a dehumidifier close to the window, which could help remove some of the moisture that is in the air. It does not solve the underlying problem of a window seal that is broken and won't prevent further fogging.

Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and drill holes into your window to release the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that can be efficient. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are a variety of reasons double-pane windows can start to fog. The seal can be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has deteriorated over 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-five years and has become foggy you're probably to be beyond the point of an insurance claim.

The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not be affected by an ineffective seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like a warm home and lower cost of energy. The best way to be sure you get the best quality windows is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, such as increased heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health problems within your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air out of your home, causing you to have to run your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may cause drafts. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows has been broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This is a costly issue to fix and may require the assistance of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to locate an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you find the source of the air draft.

Re-caulking and installing weather stripping may help eliminate some drafts. However, more complex problems with the seals on your windows or panes may require a complete replacement. Consult with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to be sure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a a free estimate! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!