How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. Often you can fix your window back in working order by doing some 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 damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than simply a sloppy appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to enter your home. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can destroy the insulation created by the glass and make your furnace or AC have to work harder to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.

Cracks in windows can occur from a number of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object hitting the glass or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the exterior layer of the window to break, whereas the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also known as a pressure fracture, is identified by its curving shape that looks like an hourglass.

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

There are several quick solutions for broken or cracked windows to block the elements of wind, water and bugs until you think of a permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window, such as a shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This isn't very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford a more permanent fix.

For a longer-lasting option you can opt for glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work at home. You can buy this online or at many auto repair shops and follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is more labor-intensive, but it can last for many years and prevent the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional depending on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can damage the appearance of your home and also cause mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to contact an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the wall around a window. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are usually caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials, such as building paper or housewrap 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 house.

It is important to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house if you discover an issue with water. Look for areas of rot in the wood around the window or sills, damp walls and walls as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these issues, it's likely that the leak is emanating from outside your window for a long time.

A quality caulking job will help to fix many minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own, but you will need to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a solid seal. In certain situations it might not suffice to stop a leakage, especially if it is a long-term issue.

Contact a reliable Dearborn company for window repair if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also assist you to determine if it's worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it is more sensible to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs they'll be able provide you with suggestions on how to take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface like glass. It can happen naturally when cold air collides with warm, moist indoor air, particularly in a home where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

A common solution for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which could help remove some of the moisture that is in the air. This does not solve the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.

Another method is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and drill holes in your window to remove the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is efficient. It doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.

There are a variety of reasons why a window with double panes may fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded, or pressure washing could cause the crack and it's possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has degraded over time, especially in older homes.

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

The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not have any problems with an ineffective seal. This will result in clean, clear windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower cost of energy. Employing a window installer who is experienced will ensure that you get an excellent window. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are accurate and install a window which is long-lasting and reliable.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows of your home can cause major problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These gaps allow cold air to pass through and warm air out of your home, causing you to have to run your air conditioner or furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time, the wood can expand and contract, causing the seals to fall apart. This is usually repaired by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This is an expensive issue to fix and may require the services of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to identify an unheated or drafty window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window repairs frame, and note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you determine the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help to remove drafts. However, more complex problems with your window seals or panes could require a full replacement. It's important to consult with an experienced window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed correctly. This is the only way to know 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!