How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or wind in the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. You can often restore your window by following a few simple 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 durable.

Broken or cracked panes

A damaged or cracked glass window can result in more than just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to enter your home. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can degrade the insulation offered by the glass and cause your furnace or AC work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks in your windows can result from a variety of reasons, including impacts and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or even pressure changes in your home, may cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure crack, can be identified by its curving shape that looks like an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane windows. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months or excessive pressure on the glass may cause cracks of this kind.

If you have a window that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out while you think of a long-term solution. You can cut a piece to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to make a permanent repair.

For a longer-lasting option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used in your home. You can purchase this on the internet or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair is a bit more labor intensive, but it can last for several years and will stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the condition of your window you may want to consult a professional.

Water Infiltration

If a window is damaged, it could ruin the appearance of your home, and can cause mold, water stains and other damage. If you spot water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to a window, it is likely time to contact an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some instances it could be necessary to replace the window completely.

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

It is important to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house when you discover the presence of a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these signs it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window repair near me for a long time.

A good quality caulking job can resolve many minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking yourself however you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a good seal. In some instances, this may not suffice to stop a leak especially if it's an ongoing issue.

If you notice that your window is leaking, it is important to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair company. They'll be able to conduct a thorough assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window itself or whether it's a problem with the siding, roof or gutters, or even the wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it's worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it's better to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can provide advice on how to care for your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just a visual problem. They can also pose an energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, such as glass, forming fog. It can happen naturally when warm, humid air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.

A common solution for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier near the window, which will assist in removing some of the moisture in the air. This does not solve the root issue of a broken window seal and will not prevent future fogging.

Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the trapped condensation. This is a viable option however it is costly and is merely cosmetically correct. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will still leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are several reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal can be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed air/gas has degraded with time, especially older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in use for ten or 20 years and is now hazy it may be too late to make an claim.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. Working with a window contractor who is skilled will ensure you get a quality window. A professional with experience will ensure that the measurements are accurate and install a window which is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious issues, including increased heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes can create drafts. These gaps let cold air in and warm air to exit your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.

A draft in a window could be caused by issues with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is particularly common in older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, causing the seals to fall apart. This is often repaired by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This can be an expensive problem and could require professional help from a window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to identify an unheated or drafty window. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you determine the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more advanced problems with your window seals or panes will likely need a complete replacement. Consult with an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy-efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills all year round! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!