How to Repair a Window

It could be from baseball players or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break due to a variety of reasons. In most cases, you can get your window back into working order by doing just a few simple steps.

The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more robust.

Cracked or broken panes

A cracked or broken glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can destroy the insulation created by the glass and window repair cause your furnace or AC work harder to maintain a an ideal temperature in your home.

Cracks in your windows can be caused by 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 inner pane remains intact. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane window. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter months, or when the glass is subject to excessive pressure.

There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked windows to block the elements of wind, water, and bugs while you consider a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.

For a longer-lasting option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work at home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in many auto repair shops. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This type of fix will require more effort but it can last for years and keep the crack from getting worse. You might want to consult with a professional, based on the severity of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

If a window is damaged, it can ruin the appearance of your house, and can cause mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to call a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the wall around the window. In some cases it may be necessary for the window to be replaced.

Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of low-quality materials, like construction paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame has not been angled downward to allow the water to drain away from the home.

If you spot leaks, it's important to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Examine for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these problems it is likely the leak is originating from outside your window and has been running for some time.

A well-executed caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly first to ensure a seal. In some cases it might not suffice to stop leaks particularly if it's a long-term issue.

If you discover that your window is leaked, it is important to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and inform you whether the leak is caused by the window or if it's a problem with the siding, roof, gutters or wall itself. They can also advise you if it's worth trying to fix the window or if it's better sense to replace it. Once 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 can be more than just an unattractive problem. They can also pose an energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, to form fog. This happens naturally when warm, moist air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also result in calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.

Place a dehumidifier close to the window. This will help to remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a damaged seal and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another method is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake encased in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. This is a viable option however it is costly and only an aesthetic fix. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and will leave traces of stains and deposits on the window.

There are a variety of reasons windows with double panes can start to fog. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed air/gas has degraded with time, especially older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, if the window repair near me has been in your home for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy, it's likely to be beyond the point of a warranty claim.

The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other advantages like a warmer home and lower energy bills. Employing a window installer with experience will ensure you get a quality window. A reputable contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is long-lasting and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious problem that can increase your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. Window drafts result from gaps or cracks around the frame and window panes. These cracks let warm air escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

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

The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This could be costly to fix, and may require the help of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.

Utilizing the flame of candle to locate the drafty windows can be helpful in determining the source of a cold air leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should observe any places where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you pinpoint the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help reduce drafts. However, more advanced issues with your window seals or panes may require a full replacement. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to provide a free estimate! We're looking forward to hearing from you!