How to Repair a Window

Windows can break for a variety of reasons, such as children playing baseball or wind. You can usually get your window working again by following a few easy steps.

Tape is the most efficient method to fix any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Cracked or broken Panes

A cracked or broken glass window can cause more just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned, it can be extremely damaging as it ruins the insulation the glass provides and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.

Cracks in your windows can result from a variety of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture can be identified by its curving shape that resembles an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the inside and outside layers of double pane windows. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure.

If you have a window pane damaged or cracked there are a few quick fixes to help keep wind, water and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. You could cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't particularly attractive, but will keep your home warm until you are able to afford an even more permanent fix.

To make a long-lasting choice you can opt for glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but also works in your home. You can purchase this on the internet or at most auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is a bit more labor-intensive, however it will last for a few years and keep the crack from getting worse. You might want to consult with a professional based on the degree of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can alter the appearance of your home and can lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you notice water spots or stains on the wall near the window, it's likely time to contact an expert to look into and fix the issue. In some instances it might be necessary to replace the window completely.

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

It is important to inspect both the interior and the exterior of your house if you discover the presence of a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these issues it is likely the leak is originating from outside your window and has been flowing for some time.

A good quality caulking job will help to fix several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure a solid seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you have a problem that has been going on for a while.

Contact a trustworthy Dearborn business to repair your window if you find that your window is leaking. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's better sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and made the upvc door repairs near me, they will be able to provide suggestions on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just unsightly, they can be a serious energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface such as glass. It can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, particularly in a home where humidity is high. When windows become cloudy 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 windows.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will remove some of that moisture from the air. This does not solve the root issue of a broken window seal and won't stop future fogging.

Another popular remedy is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be very effective but it's costly and is merely a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes and will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are many reasons why a double-pane window may begin to get a little cloudy. The seal can be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but when the window has been in your home for ten or twenty years and is now hazy you're probably past the point of an insurance claim.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and other advantages like a warmer home and Window repairs lower utility bills. A window repair contractor who is skilled will ensure you get the best window. The right contractor will ensure the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty are a major issue that can lead to higher heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that are around the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to run your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may cause drafts. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is usually repaired by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.

A common cause of drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This could be a costly issue that requires a professional window company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

Using the flame from candle to locate the drafty windows can help determine the location where a cold leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any areas that the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you identify the source of the draft.

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