How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can get your window back into good working order by following some simple steps.

Tape is the most efficient method to fix any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape but more durable.

Broken or cracked panes

A damaged or cracked window isn't just ugly but it could also cause an air leak inside your home, allowing wind, rain and bugs to enter. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage as they can ruin the insulation created by the glass, and make your AC or furnace work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of reasons, including weather conditions and impact. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of the window repairs to break, whereas the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure crack, is identified by its curved shape that is similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of windows with double glazed window repairs near me panes. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass may cause cracks like these.

If you have a window repairs pane damaged or cracked there are a few quick solutions to keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack for example, an insulated shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.

To make a long-lasting choice you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used in your home. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores, and then follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and can keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the condition of your window you might want to speak with an expert.

Water Infiltration

If a window is damaged, it can ruin the appearance of your home, and can cause mold, water stains and other damage. If you notice water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to windows, it's likely time to contact an expert to look into and fix the issue. In some 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 certain materials like housewrap or construction 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 home.

If you do spot leaks, it is important to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window or sills, damp walls, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for a long time.

A high-quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a solid seal. In some cases it may not be enough to stop a leak especially if it's a long-term issue.

If you notice that your window is leaking, it is important to call a reliable Dearborn window repair service. They'll perform a thorough evaluation and inform you whether the leak is due to the window itself or whether it is an issue with the siding, roof or gutters or the 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 experts have evaluated and made the repairs, they will be able to provide advice on how to care for your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface like glass. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When windows become foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

One common remedy for foggy windows is to install a dehumidifier near the window, which can aid in eliminating some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another option is to make holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective but it's costly and is merely cosmetically correct. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes, and it will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.

There are a few reasons why windows with double panes can become hazy. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing could cause the window to break and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten or twenty years and has become hazy, it may be too late to make a claim.

The best way to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a brand new high-quality, durable window that will not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like a warm home and lower energy costs. The best way to make sure you purchase the best quality windows is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window 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 increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These cracks let warm air escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your AC or furnace to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing seals to fail. This can often be fixed by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue that requires professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

Utilizing the flame of candle to locate drafty windows can be helpful in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any places where the flame bends or flickers. This can help you find the source of the draft.

Some drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll have to replace them. Talk to an expert in window replacement to ensure that the windows you choose are energy-efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to provide a free estimate! We're looking forward getting in touch with you!