How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can fix your window back in functioning condition by following some simple steps.

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

Cracked or Broken Panes

A broken or cracked glass window can cause more than simply a sloppy appearance. It could also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If the window is double-paned this could be particularly harmful as it damages the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Cracks in windows can occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack, also known as a pressure crack, can be identified near by its curving shape that resembles an hourglass.

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

There are several quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes that will keep out rain, wind and bugs until you think of a permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window, such as a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp of plastic 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.

You can also use the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows in vehicles. It can be used at home as well. You can purchase the adhesive online or at the majority of auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more work however it can last for several years and stop the crack from becoming 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 affect the appearance of your home and lead to water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to contact an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the wall around the window. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.

Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials, such as construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the home.

It is essential to check both the interior and the exterior of your house when you spot an issue with water. Check for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for a long time.

A well-executed caulking job will aid in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking yourself, but you will have to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure a good seal. This might not be enough to stop the leak, especially if you have a problem that's been going on for a long time.

Contact a trustworthy Dearborn firm to repair your window if you find that your window is leaking. They'll be able to perform a thorough evaluation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or if it's an issue with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs, they'll be able provide you with tips on how to take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, forming fog. This can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulation 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 on the window.

A common solution for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which can aid in eliminating some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a pantyhose and then make holes in your window to remove the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is effective. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.

There are many reasons why a double-pane window may begin to get a little 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 deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, when the window has been in your house for more than ten or twenty years and is now foggy it's probably past the point of a warranty claim.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from issues with the seal being defective. This will provide clean windows that are clear and clear, improved energy efficiency, and many other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower utility bills. The best way to make sure you have a new, quality window repair is to hire an experienced window installer. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can raise your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These cracks let cold air in and warm air out of your home, which increases the need to run your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a windows can also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. Most of the time, this is remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This is a costly problem and could require an experienced window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to locate the cold or near by drafty windows. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame and note any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.

Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help to eliminate some drafts. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll need to replace them. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!