How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break due to a variety. Most of the time you can get your window back into good working order by following a few easy steps.

The easiest fix is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Cracked or Broken Panes

A damaged or cracked window isn't just unsightly but it could also cause an air leak in your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. If the window is double-paned it can be extremely harmful as it damages the insulation provided by the glass and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain a a comfortable temperature in your home.

Cracks in windows can occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall that hits the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure crack, can be identified by its curved shape that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of windows with double panes. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature variations particularly in winter months, or when the glass is under excessive pressure.

If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken there are a few quick solutions to keep wind, water and bugs out while you think of a long-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic covering to the window's crack, such as a shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford an even more permanent fix.

For a longer-lasting option you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works in your home. You can buy this adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions to apply it to your window repair. This kind of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and prevent the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional, based on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can ruin the look of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to call an expert if you spot water spots or stains on the wall surrounding a window. In some cases it may be necessary for the window to be replaced.

Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to let the water drain away from the house.

If you do spot a leak, it is important to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Look for areas of rot in the wood surrounding the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice 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 assist in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure that the caulking is sealed. In some cases, this may not be enough to stop leaks especially if it's an ongoing issue.

Contact a reputable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They'll complete a full evaluation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window itself or whether it's a problem with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also help you decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they will give you advice about how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unsightly issue. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, such as glass, to form fog. This happens naturally when warm, humid air in the home meets cold air. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this does not solve the root issue of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the upvc window repair near me and then use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the trapped condensation. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is merely cosmetically correct. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.

There are a variety of reasons why windows with double panes can become hazy. The seal can be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded with time, window repairs particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten years and has become hazy, it could be too late to make a claim.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have problems due to faulty sealing. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and other advantages like a warmer home and lower utility bills. Employing a window installer with experience will ensure that you get a quality window. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window that is durable and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious problem that can increase your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These gaps let cold air in and warm air to leave your home, increasing the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.

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

A 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 an expensive issue to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

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

Some drafts in windows can be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will have to replace them. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure that the windows you choose are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to know that you'll be saving money on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide an estimate for free! We look forward to hearing from you!