How to Repair a Window

Windows can break for many reasons, including the wind or children playing baseball. You can usually repair your window by following a few simple steps.

The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Broken or cracked panes

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

Cracks can develop in your windows due to a range of factors including weather conditions and impact. A fall that hits the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, can be identified by its curved shape that resembles an hourglass.

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

If you have a window damaged or cracked there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty, but it will help keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.

You can also use the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal windows on vehicles. It can be used at home as well. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores, and then follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort however it can last for several years and prevent the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional depending on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window repairs near me leaks, it could ruin the appearance of your house, and also cause water stains, mold and other damages. If you spot water spots or stains on the wall near a window, it is likely that you should call an expert to look into and fix the issue. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of low-quality materials like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to drain the water away from the home.

It is essential to check both the interior and the exterior of your home if you notice a leak. Look for areas of rot in the wood surrounding the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems it is likely the leak originates outside your window and has been running for some time.

A quality caulking job can help resolve many minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a tight seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you have an issue that has been brewing for a long time.

Contact a reliable Dearborn firm for window repair if you discover that your window leaks. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. 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 experts have evaluated and completed the repairs they will be able to provide you with advice on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, like glass, and forms fog. This happens naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, particularly in a home where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier next to the window. This will help to remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a hose and drill holes into your window to release the trapped condensation. It is an expensive cosmetic fix that can be effective. It does not replace the inert gases between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.

There are many reasons why double-pane windows can start to fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing may cause the crack, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has simply degraded over time, window repair especially in older homes.

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

The most effective way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window repair near me won't have issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower utility bills. The best method to make sure you have the best quality windows is to partner with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable 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 and health problems within your home. Window drafts result from gaps or cracks around the frame and window panes. These cracks let cold air in and warm air to leave your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. Often, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.

The most common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows the argon to escape. This can be an expensive issue and may require a professional window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to identify an unheated or drafty window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should observe any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require a full replacement. It is essential to consult an experienced window replacement company to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. You can only reduce your energy bill if you seek out an experienced window replacement company. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to give you a an estimate for free! We look forward to hearing from you!