How to Repair a Window

Windows can break for a variety of reasons, such as children playing baseball or wind. In most cases you can get your window back in working order by doing a few easy steps.

The simplest solution is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more robust.

Cracked or broken Panes

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

Cracks can appear in your windows due to a variety of reasons, including weather conditions and impact. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, can cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and is identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months or pressure that is too high on the glass can lead to cracks of this kind.

There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked windows to block wind, water, and bugs while you consider a long-term solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the window's crack for example, a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.

If you want a more durable option, you can use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used at home. You can purchase the adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair is a bit more labor intensive, but it will last for a few years and will keep the crack from getting worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can damage the appearance of your house, and can cause mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to contact a professional if you notice water stains or spots on the wall surrounding a window. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace the window entirely.

The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is poor installation or improper use of materials like housewrap or building paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame has not been angled downwards to drain the water away from the house.

It is important to inspect both the interior and exterior of your house when you discover a leak. Check for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you find any of these problems, it is likely that the leak is originating from outside your window and has been running for a while.

A good caulking job can assist in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking by yourself however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. In some instances, this may not suffice to stop leaks, especially if it is an ongoing issue.

Contact a reputable Dearborn firm for window repair if find that your window is leaking. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and tell you whether the leak is due to the window itself or whether it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it is worth trying to repair the window or whether it's better to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they will give you advice about how to care for your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, like glass, forming fog. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also lead to 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 doesn't address the underlying issue of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in pantyhose and drill holes in your window to release the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is effective. It does not replace the inert gases that are between the panes and will still leave stains and traces of rust behind.

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

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

The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clear, clean windows and a better energy efficiency. There are additional benefits, like warmer homes and lower energy costs. Employing a window installer who is experienced will ensure that you get an excellent window. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious problem that can raise your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and window repairs could cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window repairs frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps allow warm air to escape your home and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your AC or furnace to work harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

A draft in a window could also be caused by problems with the seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing the seals to fail. In most cases, this can be repaired by re-caulking, or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows is broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue and may require a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

The flame of a candle can be used to identify the cold or drafty windows. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame, and note any areas where the flame flickers or bends. This can help you identify the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious problems with the seals on your windows or panes could need a complete replacement. It is essential to consult an expert window replacement service to ensure that the windows you choose to install are energy efficient and fitted properly. You will reduce your energy bill if consult with an expert window replacement company. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for free! We look forward hearing from you!