How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows break due to a variety of reasons. You can often get your window working again by following a few simple steps.

The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more durable.

Broken or cracked panes

A damaged or cracked window isn't just unattractive - it can also create an air leak in your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can ruin the insulation created by the glass, and make your AC or furnace work more hard to maintain a comfortable home temperature.

Cracks in your windows could occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall from an object hitting the glass or even just pressure changes in your home could cause the exterior layer of the upvc window repairs to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack and can be identified by a curved shape, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly in winter or pressure that is too high on the glass may cause these types of cracks.

There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked windows to block rain, wind and insects while you think of a permanent solution. You could cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This isn't the most attractive solution, but it will help keep your home dry and warm until you're able to make a permanent repair.

If you want a more durable option, you can use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used in your home. You can purchase this adhesive online or in most auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions on how to apply it to your window. This type of fix requires more work, but can last several years and stop the crack from getting worse. You might want to consult with a professional based on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can alter the appearance of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you spot water spots or staining on the walls near windows, it's likely time to contact an expert to assess and repair the problem. In some instances, it could be necessary for the window to be replaced.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the use of materials like housewrap or building paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the home.

It is important to inspect both the inside and exterior of your home if you notice a leak. Check for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for a while.

A quality caulking job will aid in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, however it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a tight seal. This may not always be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you have an issue that has been brewing for a while.

If you find that your window is leaky, it is important to call a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They can provide an assessment of the entire situation and tell you if the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also tell you whether it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's better sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they'll provide advice on how to keep your windows in good condition.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface like glass. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. If windows become cloudy they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.

One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which can help remove some of the moisture from the air. It does not solve the underlying problem of a damaged window seal and will not prevent future fogging.

Another popular remedy is to wrap a drain-snake in pantyhose and drill holes in your window to release the condensate that is trapped. This is a viable option but it's costly and is only cosmetically correct. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes, and can leave stains and deposits behind.

There are many reasons why double-pane windows can start to fog. The seal may be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, especially older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, if the window has been in your house for ten or twenty years and is now hazy it's probably to be beyond the point of a warranty claim.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window won't have issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clear, clean windows and better energy efficiency. There are other benefits, such as warmer homes and lower cost of energy. A window contractor who is experienced will ensure that you get the best window. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious issues, including the increase in heating costs during winter and higher cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts result from gaps or cracks around the window panes and frame. These cracks allow cold air to enter and warm air to exit your home, which increases the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to keep the temperature comfortable.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also cause a draft. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is often fixed by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.

Another reason for window replacement drafty windows is that the seal between layers of glass in triple or double paned windows has been broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This can be costly to fix and could 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. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any places where the flame bends 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. It's important to consult with an expert window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed properly. You will save money on your energy bill if you 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 for free! We look forward hearing from you!