How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. Most of the time you can get your window back in working order by doing a few easy steps.

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

Cracked or broken panes

A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than simply a sloppy appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. If your window is double-paned this could be particularly detrimental as it destroys the insulation the glass provides and makes your air conditioner or furnace work harder to maintain an ideal temperature inside your home.

Cracks in windows can result from a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or simply pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of your window to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture, is recognized by its curving form that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially in winter or excessive pressure on the glass can lead to cracks like these.

If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken There are a few short-term fixes to help keep water, wind and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can use a piece cut to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't particularly appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.

If you want a more durable option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or at many auto repair shops. Then, follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This type of fix requires more effort, but can last several years and stop the crack from getting any worse. It is recommended to speak with a professional, based on the severity of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When windows leak, it can ruin the look of your home and can lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you notice water spots or staining on the walls near the window, it's likely that you should call a professional to inspect and fix the issue. In some cases it may be necessary for the window to be replaced.

The most frequent cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the incorrect use of materials like housewrap or construction paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't pitched downward to drain water away from the house.

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

A quality caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly first to ensure that the caulking is sealed. In certain situations it may not be enough to stop a leak particularly if it's an ongoing issue.

If you discover that your window is leaky then it is crucial to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair company. They'll complete a full evaluation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window itself or whether it's an issue with the roof, siding or gutters or the wall itself. They will also be able to tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs, they'll be able to give you suggestions on how you can take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold surface such as glass. This happens naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't address the underlying issue of a broken seal, and won't stop future window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in a hose and make holes in your window to release the trapped condensation. This can be effective however it is costly and is only an aesthetic fix. It does not replace the inert gases between the panes, and can leave stains and deposits behind.

There are many reasons why double glazed window repairs-pane windows can begin to get a little cloudy. The seal could be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, especially older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten years and has become hazy, it could be too late to make claims.

The most effective way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, top-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will provide clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. The best way to make sure you get an excellent window is to work with an experienced window installer. A professional with experience will be able to provide the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious problems, like the increase in heating costs during winter and more expensive cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These gaps let warm air escape from your home, while allowing cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your AC or furnace to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also create drafts. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood can expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. This is usually repaired by re-caulking the seals or replacing them.

Another reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This is a costly issue to fix and could require the help of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.

Utilizing the flame of candles to pinpoint the drafty windows can be helpful in determining where a cold air leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should note any areas that the flame moves or bends. This can help you find the source of the air draft.

Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help to reduce drafts. However, more complex issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require a complete replacement. Consult with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to be sure that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for free! We're looking forward to hearing from you!