How to Repair a Window

Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including wind or kids playing baseball. You can usually get your window working again by following a few simple steps.

Tape is the easiest way to fix any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more durable.

Broken or cracked Panes

A cracked or broken glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely damaging as it ruins the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks can appear in your windows due to a variety of factors including weather conditions and impact. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, can be identified by its curving shape that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter, or if the glass is under excessive pressure.

There are several quick fixes for cracked or broken windows to block rain, wind and bugs until you plan a permanent solution. You can cut a piece 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 an even more permanent fix.

For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive, which is usually used for vehicle windows but can also be used in your home. You can buy this online or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is a bit more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and can stop the crack from becoming worse. You may want to consult with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call in a professional if you notice water stains or spots on the wall surrounding the window. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the window entirely.

Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of poor quality materials, such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the home.

It is crucial to examine both the interior and the exterior of your house when you spot a leak. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window or sills, damp walls and walls, and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these problems it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been flowing for some time.

A good quality caulking job can resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a solid seal. In certain situations, this may not suffice to stop a leak especially if it's an ongoing issue.

Contact a reputable Dearborn business for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They will be able to provide an assessment of the entire situation and tell you if the leak is due to the window or is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also advise you whether it's worth trying to door repair the window or if it's more sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they'll provide advice on how to care for your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, to form fog. This can occur naturally when warm, humid air from the home is paired with cold air. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

A common solution for window repair foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which could help remove some of the moisture in the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and won't stop future window fogging.

Another option is to wrap a drain-snake in a pantyhose and then make holes in your window to remove the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.

There are a variety of reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. 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 damaged thermal windows. However, if the window is in your home for ten or twenty years and has become foggy you're probably past the point of an insurance claim.

The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window won't have issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. 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 ensure that the measurements are accurate and will install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows of your home can cause major issues, including increased heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort and Window Repair even health problems within your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes can cause drafts. These gaps allow cold air to enter and warm air to exit your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also create drafts. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This could be costly to fix and may require the help of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other local areas.

Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate drafty windows can help in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require a full replacement. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to know that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!