How to Repair a Window

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

Tape is the easiest way to fix any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape, Window Repairs but is more robust.

Cracked or broken panes

A broken or cracked glass window can result in more than simply a sloppy appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to enter your home. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage as they can destroy the insulation created by the glass and make your furnace or AC work harder to maintain a a comfortable home temperature.

Cracks can develop in your windows due to a variety of factors, including weather conditions and impact. A fall that hits the glass, or pressure changes inside your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, can be recognized by its curving form that looks like an hourglass.

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

If you have a window that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. 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.

To make a long-lasting choice, you can use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used in your home. You can buy this online or at most auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of fix is a little more labor intensive, but it can last for many years and will keep the crack from getting worse. You might want to consult with a professional, based on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

When windows leak, it can alter the appearance of your home and can lead to water stains, mold, Window Repairs and other damage. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near the window, it's probably time to call a professional to inspect and fix the issue. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.

The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the incorrect use of materials such as housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the home.

If you find leaks, it's crucial to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your house. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these signs, it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window for some time.

A good caulking job can aid in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. It may not be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you have a problem that has been brewing for a long time.

Contact a reliable Dearborn business to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you whether the leak is caused by the window itself or if it's a problem with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it would make more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they will provide you with advice on how to care for your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, and forms fog. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. If windows become hazy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.

One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier close to the window, which can aid in eliminating some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another method is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a pantyhose and then make holes in your window to remove the condensation that has been trapped. It's a costly cosmetic fix that can be effective. It won't replace the gas in between the panes and will leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are several reasons why a double-pane window may begin to fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded, or pressure washing could cause the break, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However the window that you have been in use for more than ten years and is now hazy it may be too late to file a claim.

The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not have problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers other benefits, such as a warm home and lower energy costs. Employing a window installer who is experienced will ensure you get the best window repair. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious issues, including increased heating costs in winter and more expensive cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort and health problems within your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks let warm air escape your home and cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your furnace or AC to work harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also create drafts. This is especially common with older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This is an expensive issue to fix and could require the services of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.

Using the flame from candles to pinpoint the drafty windows can help determine the source of a cold air leak is coming from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any places where the flame bends or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.

Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help remove drafts. However, more advanced problems with your window seals or panes could need a complete replacement. Get in touch with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy-efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills all year round! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide no-cost estimates! We're looking forward getting in touch with you!