How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows break due to a variety of reasons. You can often repair your window by following a couple of simple steps.

Tape is the simplest method to fix any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more robust.

Cracked or Broken Panes

A cracked or broken glass window can cause more simply a sloppy appearance. It could also allow wind, rain and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage, as they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass and cause your AC or furnace work more hard to maintain the temperature of your home.

Cracks can appear in your windows due to a variety of reasons, including weather conditions and impact. A fall hitting the glass, or even pressure changes within your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This type 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 outside and inside layers of windows with double panes. These kinds of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter, or if the glass is subject to the pressure of a high level.

If you have a window that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term solutions to keep water, wind and insects out while you plan a more permanent solution. You can use a piece cut to the size of a plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This solution is not very appealing, but it will keep your home warm until you can afford an even more permanent fix.

If you want a more durable option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for vehicle windows but will also work at home. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto maintenance stores, and then follow the instructions of the manufacturer for applying it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and stop the crack from getting more severe. Depending on the severity of your window, you may want to consult an expert.

Water Infiltration

If a window leaks it can alter the appearance of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to contact an expert if you spot spots or water stains on the walls around a window. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is poor installation or the use of materials such as housewrap or building paper instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to drain the water away from the house.

If you spot leaks, it's crucial to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your home. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood that surrounds the window as well as damp walls and sills as well as paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these signs it is likely the leak originates outside your window and has been flowing for some time.

A quality caulking job will assist in repairing minor leaks that occur around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area first to ensure a solid seal. In some instances it may not suffice to stop a leakage especially if it's an ongoing issue.

If you discover that your window is leaking, it is important to contact a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They will be able complete an assessment of the entire situation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also help you determine if it's worth trying to repair the window or if it's better to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they will give you advice about how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows can be more than just a visual problem. They can also create an energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, like glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when warm, moist 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 can also result in calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on the window.

Install a dehumidifier next to the upvc window repairs. This will help remove some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a damaged seal and won't stop future window fogging.

Another method is to make holes in the Window Doctor and then use a drain snake encased in pantyhoses to clear the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic solution that is effective. It does not replace the inert gases between the panes. It will leave stains and traces of rust behind.

There are several reasons why a double-pane window may start to fog. Damage to the seal caused by the frames being sanded, or pressure washing could cause the crack and it's possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has simply degraded over time, especially in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to replace or repair defective thermal windows, but if the window is in your home for more than ten or twenty years and has become foggy, it's likely past the point of an insurance claim.

The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. Employing a window installer who is experienced will ensure that you receive a quality window. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting, dependable window.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows can be a serious problem that can raise your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes can create drafts. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air to leave your home, causing you to have to run your air conditioner or furnace to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also create drafts. This is especially common with older windows that have wooden casings. Over time the wood will expand and contract, causing seals to break down. This is usually fixed by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double- or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This allows argon to 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 locate a drafty or cold window. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any spots where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the air draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more serious issues with your window seals or panes may require a complete replacement. It's important to consult with an experienced window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and have been installed properly. You will reduce your energy bills if you contact an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!