How to Repair a Window

From kids playing baseball or wind at night, windows break for a variety of reasons. You can usually restore your window by following a few easy steps.

Tape is the simplest method to fix any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more durable.

Broken or cracked Panes

A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than just an unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to enter your home. Double-paned windows are particularly susceptible to damage, as they can degrade the insulation created by the glass, and make your AC or furnace have to work harder to maintain a comfortable home temperature.

Cracks in your windows can 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 outer layer of the window to break, whereas the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be distinguished by a curved shape, nearby similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the inside and outside layers of a double pane window. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is under excessive pressure.

If you have a window pane that has cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep water, wind and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the crack in your window like an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This solution doesn't look great however it will keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to make a permanent repair.

You can also apply glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows on vehicles. It works at home too. You can purchase this on the internet or at most auto maintenance stores and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of fix is more labor-intensive, but it can last for several years and will prevent the crack from getting worse. Depending on the degree of the crack in your window, you might want to speak with an expert.

Water Infiltration

If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home and lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you notice water spots or stains on the wall near a window, it is likely time to contact a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window entirely.

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

If you find leaks, it is essential to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood that surrounds the window or sills, damp walls and walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these issues, it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for a long time.

A quality caulking job will help to fix several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking by yourself however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In certain situations, this may not suffice to stop leaks particularly if it's a long-term issue.

Contact a trustworthy Dearborn firm for window repair if discover that your window leaks. They'll perform a thorough evaluation and let you know whether the leak is due to the window itself or if it's an issue with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They can also advise you whether it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have evaluated and completed the repairs, they'll be able give you advice on how to take care of your windows in the future.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows aren't just unsightly, they can be a major energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, like glass, and forms fog. This happens naturally when warm, humid air from the home is paired with cold air. When windows become cloudy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and nearby Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

One common remedy for foggy windows is to put a dehumidifier near the window, which can aid in eliminating some of the moisture from the air. However, this doesn't tackle the root cause of a broken seal, and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a pantyhose and then drill holes into your window to release the condensation that has been trapped. This is a viable option, but it is expensive and only cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gases that are between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.

There are many reasons why windows with double panes can start to fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded, or pressure washing can cause the crack, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has simply degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, if the window has been in your home for ten or twenty years and has become foggy you're probably beyond the scope of an insurance claim.

The most effective way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace windows. A new, top-quality replacement window won't have issues with the seal being defective. This will give clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best way to make sure you have an excellent window is to hire an experienced window installer. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is durable and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows are a serious problem that can raise your heating costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health problems within your home. The cracks or gaps that surround the window frame as well as panes could cause drafts. These cracks let warm air escape your home, and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

A draft in a window can also be caused by problems with seals or weather stripping around the frame. This is especially common with older windows that have wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is often repaired by re-caulking the seals or by replacing them.

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

The flame of a candle can be used to locate the cold or drafty windows. Move the flame around the perimeter of the frame, and note any areas where the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you identify the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be fixed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If the seals on your windows are damaged or the panes have damaged, you'll need to replace them. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year long! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window repairs replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a a free estimate! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!