How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows are broken due to a variety of reasons. You can usually restore your window by following a few simple steps.

The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape, but is more robust.

Broken or cracked Panes

A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than just an unsightly appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned, this can be especially detrimental as it destroys the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

Cracks can develop in your windows due to a variety of factors, including weather conditions and impact. A fall from an object hitting the glass or even a change in pressure within your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack and can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also develop between the inside and outside layers of a double-pane windows. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter or excessive pressure on the glass may cause these types of cracks.

If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out while you work on a longer-term solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack for example, a shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This method isn't pretty however it will keep your home warm and dry until you're able to make a permanent repair.

To make a long-lasting choice, you can use glass adhesive which is normally used for windows in vehicles but also works at home. You can buy this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of fix is a little more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and can stop the crack from becoming worse. You might want to consult with a professional depending on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damage. If you spot water spots or stains on the wall near windows, it's likely time to contact an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are often due to poor installation or the use of inferior materials, like housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to drain the water away from the house.

If you spot a leak, it is essential to inspect both the inside and exterior of your home. Examine for signs of rot in the wood that surrounds the window as well as damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window for a long time.

A high-quality caulking job can help resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is essential to wash the area thoroughly to ensure that the caulking is sealed. This might not be enough to stop the leak, particularly if you've got a problem that has been going on for a long time.

If you find that your window is leaking, it is important to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair near me repair company. They will be able complete a full assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window or is an issue that is related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also assist you to decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or if it's better to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they'll provide you with advice on how to maintain your windows.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just ugly, they can be a major energy efficiency issue. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold surface, like glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air inside the home comes in contact with cold air. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

A common solution for foggy windows is to install a dehumidifier near the window, which will assist in removing some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a leaky seal and won't stop future window repair near me fogging.

Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the trapped condensation. This is a viable option, but it is expensive and is 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 several reasons why a window with double panes can become hazy. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded, or pressure washing could cause the window to break and it's possible that the gas/air seal has degraded over time, especially in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in use for more than ten or twenty years and is now hazy it could be too late to make a claim.

The best solution to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will provide clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy costs. The best way to be sure you get the best quality windows is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, such as the increase in heating costs during winter and higher cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and even health issues in your home. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes could cause drafts. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit your home, which increases the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame could also cause a draft. This is especially common with 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 replacing them.

Another common reason for drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This could be an expensive issue to fix, and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to find a drafty or cold window. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any spots where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you find the source of the air draft.

Re-caulking and adding weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. However, more advanced problems with the seals on your windows or panes will likely need a complete replacement. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure that the windows you choose are energy-efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy to provide no-cost estimates! We're looking forward hearing from you!