How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can get your window back in functioning condition by following some simple steps.

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

Broken or cracked panes

A damaged or cracked window isn't just ugly but it could also cause air leaks in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to get into. If your window is double-paned this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or repaired furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.

Cracks in windows can be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break, while the inner pane remains in place. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture is identified by its curving shape that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations particularly in winter, or if the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure.

There are some quick solutions for broken or cracked windows to block rain, wind, and bugs while you think of a permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the window's crack, such as a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.

To make a long-lasting choice you can opt for glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works in your home. You can purchase this adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This type of fix is more labor-intensive, but it can last for many years and can stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you may want to consult a professional.

Water Infiltration

When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near a window repairs near me, it is likely that you should call an expert to assess and repair the problem. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the use of materials like building paper or housewrap instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not inclined downwards to drain water away from the house.

It is crucial to examine both the interior and exterior of your home if you spot a leak. Look for areas of rot in the wood around the window as well as damp walls and sills as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for some time.

A quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a good seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage especially if you have an issue that has been brewing for a long time.

Contact a reputable Dearborn business to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They'll be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you if the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also help you determine if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it's better to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly problem. They can also create an energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold surface such as glass. This happens naturally when cold air meets humid, warm 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 may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

The most common method for fogging windows is to put a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which could aid in eliminating some of the moisture from the air. It does not solve the underlying problem of a broken window seal and won't prevent further fogging.

Another popular remedy is to make holes in the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the condensation that has been trapped. This can be very effective however it is costly and is merely an aesthetic fix. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.

There are a few reasons why windows with double panes may fog. The seal could be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded with time, especially older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in place for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it could be too late to file a claim.

The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window will not have problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. Employing a window installer with experience will ensure you get an excellent window. The right contractor will ensure the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, dependable window.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can increase your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps let cold air in and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep the temperature comfortable.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This can often be repaired by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.

Another reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows is broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This can be costly to fix and may require the help of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other areas in the area.

Using the flame from candles to pinpoint a drafty window can help determine the location where a cold leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame, and repaired note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.

Some drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more complex problems with your window seals or panes may need a complete replacement. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to be sure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills throughout the year! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide no-cost estimates! We're looking forward to hearing from you!