How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows break for a variety of reasons. You can often get your window working again by following a few simple steps.

The easiest fix is to apply 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 damaged or cracked window isn't just unsightly - it can also create air leaks in your home that allows 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 AC or Upvc Window Repairs Near Me furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Cracks can develop in your windows due to a variety of factors including weather conditions and impact. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass, or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture can be identified by its curved shape that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of double pane windows. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.

If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken there are a few quick solutions to keep water, wind and bugs out until you think of a long-term solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great but it can help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to make a permanent repair.

You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows in vehicles. It will work at home as well. You can buy this online or at many auto maintenance stores, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of repair will require more effort however it can last for several years and prevent the crack from becoming worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional depending on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks it can damage the appearance of your home and also cause water stains, mold and other damages. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls Near me a window, it is probably time to call an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace the window completely.

The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is poor installation or the incorrect use of materials such as housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downwards to allow the water to drain away from the house.

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

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

If you discover that your window is leaked, it is important to call a trustworthy Dearborn window repair company. They can provide an exhaustive assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window or is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also advise you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it's better sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll give you advice about how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive problem. They can also pose an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, like glass, forming fog. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks on windows.

Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another method is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and make holes in your window to remove the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is effective. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.

There are several reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. Damage to the seal from sanding around the frames or pressure washing may cause the crack and it's possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has simply degraded over time, especially in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten years and is now foggy it may be too late for an claim.

The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. It also has additional benefits, like an insulated home and lower cost of energy. Working with a window contractor who is skilled will ensure you get a quality window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, such as the increase in heating costs during winter and increased cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. Window drafts are caused by gaps or cracks around the frame and window panes. These cracks let warm air escape your home and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your AC or furnace to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason that can cause drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue to fix and could require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.

Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate a drafty window can help determine the source of a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame bends or flickers. This can help you find the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and Window repair near me putting in weather stripping can help remove drafts. However, more advanced issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require a complete replacement. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. You will only reduce your energy bill if seek out an experienced window replacement company. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for free! We look forward to hearing from you!