How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. It is possible to repair your window by following a couple of simple steps.

The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more durable.

Cracked or broken Panes

A broken or cracked glass window can cause more just an unsightly appearance. It could also let rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage as they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass and cause your furnace or AC have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks in your windows could be caused by a variety of reasons, including impacts 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 the window to break, while the inner pane remains in place. This type of crack, Window repair also known as a pressure fracture is identified by its curved shape that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of double pane windows. Extreme temperature differences, especially during winter or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.

If you have a window that has cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out until you plan a more permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the window's crack, such as an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This solution is not very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.

If you want a more durable option, you can use glass adhesive that is typically used for vehicle windows but also works at home. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and prevent the crack from getting any worse. You might want to consult with a professional based on the degree 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. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to the window, it's likely that you should call an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some cases it may be required that the window be replaced.

Leaks around windows are usually due to poor installation or the use of inferior materials, like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to allow the water to drain away from the house.

If you do spot leaks, it is crucial to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Look for areas of rot in the wood around the window as well as damp walls and sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for a long time.

A quality caulking job will help to fix numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In some cases it might not be enough to stop leaks especially if it's a long-term issue.

Contact a reputable Dearborn company for window repair if discover that your window leaks. They'll conduct a thorough assessment and inform you whether the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's an issue with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They will also be able to tell you whether it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's better sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs they will be able to provide you with tips on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, and forms fog. This happens naturally when cold air meets warm, moist indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of the moisture from the air. It does not solve the root issue of a broken window seal and won't stop future fogging.

Another method is to wrap a drain-snake in pantyhose and drill holes into your window to release the condensate that is trapped. This can be very effective but it's costly and only cosmetically correct. It does not replace the inert gases that are between the panes. It will leave stains and traces of rust behind.

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

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However it is possible that your window has been in use for more than ten years and is now hazy it might be too late for claims.

The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower utility bills. Employing a window installer who is skilled will ensure that you receive a quality window. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, dependable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, such as the increase in heating costs during winter and higher cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues in your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes can create drafts. These gaps allow cold air to pass through and warm air to leave your home, increasing the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. Often, this can be remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

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 could be a costly issue that requires an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

Utilizing the flame of candles to pinpoint a drafty window can be helpful in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the edges of the window repair near me frame, and note any areas where the flame bends or flickers. This will help you identify the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help to reduce drafts. If your window seals are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will have to replace them. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to know 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 an estimate for you at no cost! We look forward hearing from you!