How to Repair a Window

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

The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more robust.

Cracked or broken Panes

A cracked or broken window isn't just ugly - it can also create an air leak inside your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to get into. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage, as they can ruin the insulation created by the glass and cause your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.

Cracks in your windows can occur from a number of factors, including impact and weather conditions. A fall from an object hitting the glass or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of your window to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane windows. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass can cause these types of cracks.

There are several quick solutions for broken or cracked windows to block the elements of wind, water and insects while you think of a permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic covering to the window's crack, such as an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.

For a longer-lasting option you can opt for upvc glass adhesive which is normally used for vehicle windows but will also work at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in many auto repair shops. Follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort however it can last for several years and stop the crack from getting any worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with an expert.

Water Infiltration

If a upvc window repair is damaged, it can damage the appearance of your house, and also cause water stains, mold and other damage. If you notice water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to a window, it is probably time to call a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In certain cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials, like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled to drain the water away from the house.

It is essential to check both the interior and the exterior of your home if you spot a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues it is likely the leak is coming from outside your window and has been running for a while.

A quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking on your own, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In some cases it may not be enough to stop leaks particularly if it's an ongoing issue.

Contact a trustworthy Dearborn business to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They'll be able to perform a thorough evaluation and let you know if the leak is due to the window itself or whether it is an issue with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They can also advise you if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it makes more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and made the repairs, they'll be able to provide you with tips on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly problem. They can also pose a serious energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface, such as glass. This happens naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, especially in a home where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future upvc window repair fogging.

Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in pantyhose and make holes in your window to remove the condensation that has been trapped. This is a viable option but it's costly and only an aesthetic fix. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are a few reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal could be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However it is possible that your window has been in use for more than ten years and has become hazy, it may be too late to make a claim.

The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new high-quality window that does not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clear, clean windows and a better energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers other advantages, including warmer homes and lower energy bills. Employing a window installer who is skilled will ensure you get the best window. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious issues, including the increase in heating costs during winter and higher cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes can cause drafts. These gaps allow cold air to enter and warm air to exit your home, which increases the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is most common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time, the wood can expand and contract, causing seals to fall apart. This is often corrected by re-caulking seals or re-caulking them.

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

Utilizing the flame of a candle to locate a drafty window can help in determining the location where a cold leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any spots where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you identify the source of the draft.

Some drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more complex issues with your window seals or panes could require a complete replacement. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and upvc window repairs installation services. We're happy to give you a no-cost estimates! We're looking forward to hearing from you!