How to Repair a Window

Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including children playing baseball or wind. It is possible to repair your window by following a few easy steps.

The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Broken or cracked Panes

A cracked or broken glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It could also let rain, wind and insects to enter your home. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage, as they can ruin the insulation offered by the glass, and make your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.

Cracks in your windows could occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes within your home, can cause the outer layer to break, while the inner pane is not damaged. This kind of crack, also referred to as a pressure fracture, is identified by its curved shape that resembles an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of double pane windows. Extreme temperature differences, especially during the winter months, or excessive pressure on the glass can cause these types of cracks.

There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out rain, wind and insects while you plan a permanent solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you are able to make a permanent repair.

For a longer-lasting option, you can use glass adhesive, which is usually used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work in your home. You can buy this online or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort, but can last several years and keep the crack from getting worse. Depending on the condition of your window you might want to talk to a professional.

Water Infiltration

When windows leak, it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call in a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the walls around a window. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are usually due to poor installation or the use of poor quality materials, such as housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downwards to allow the water to drain away from the home.

If you do spot leaks, it's important to take the time to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Check for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for a long time.

A high-quality caulking job will help to fix several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is essential to wash the area thoroughly first to ensure that the caulking is sealed. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you've got an issue that has been brewing for a while.

If you find that your window is leaky, it is important to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair service. They will be able complete a full assessment and inform you if the leak is due to the window or is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also help you determine if it's worth attempting to repair the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. After the experts have evaluated and completed the repairs, they'll be able to give you advice on how to take care of your windows in the future.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by condensation of water vapor on a cold, hard surface like glass. This can occur naturally when warm, humid air in the home meets 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 streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

A common solution for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which will help remove some of the moisture from the air. It does not solve the root cause of a damaged window seal and won't prevent further fogging.

Another method is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the condensation that has been trapped. This can be very effective but it's costly and is merely cosmetically correct. It does not replace the inert gases that are between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits.

There are several reasons why windows with double panes can become hazy. The seal could be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective windows. However, if your window has been in place for ten or 20 years and has become hazy, it could be too late for an claim.

The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new, high-quality window that will not be affected by an ineffective seal. This will result in clean windows that are clear and window replacement clear, improved energy efficiency, and other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy costs. A window contractor with experience will ensure you get a quality window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The gaps or cracks that are around the window frame and panes can create drafts. These gaps allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window doctor could also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is common in older windows with wooden casings. As time passes the wood will expand and contract, which causes the seals to fail. This is often fixed by re-caulking the seals or re-caulking them.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is the broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to escape. This is a costly issue to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.

Using the flame from candles to pinpoint a drafty window can help in determining the location where a cold leak is coming from. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should observe any areas that the flame flickers or bends. This will help you identify the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help remove drafts. However, more serious problems with your window seals or panes may require a full replacement. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed properly. You will save money on your energy bill if contact an expert window replacement company. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate at no cost! We look forward hearing from you!