How to Repair a Window

Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including the wind or children playing baseball. It is possible to get your window working again by following a few simple steps.

The most straightforward 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.

Cracked or broken panes

A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly but it could also cause air leaks in your home that allows bugs, rain and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage as they can destroy the insulation created by the glass and cause your furnace or AC work more hard to maintain a comfortable home temperature.

Cracks can appear in your windows due to a range of factors, including weather conditions and impact. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass, or simply pressure changes in your home could cause the outer layer of the window to break, whereas 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 may also form between the outside and inside layers of a double-pane windows. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences especially in winter months, or when the glass is under the pressure of a high level.

There are several quick fixes for broken or cracked window panes to keep out wind, water and bugs until you plan a permanent solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic sheet to the window's crack for example, a shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This isn't very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you are able to afford the more permanent solution.

You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is typically used to seal vehicle windows. It works at home as well. You can buy this online or at many auto repair shops, and then follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of fix is more labor-intensive, but it will last for a few years and will stop the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to speak with a professional.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it could ruin the appearance of your house, and cause water stains, mold and other damage. It is time to call an expert if you spot water stains or spots on the wall around the window. In certain cases it could be necessary to replace the window completely.

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

It is crucial to examine both the interior and exterior of your home if you notice the presence of a leak. Examine for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these issues it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window repair Chatham for a while.

A well-executed caulking job will help to resolve many minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is important to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a seal. In some instances it might not suffice to stop a leak, especially if it is a long-term issue.

Contact a reliable Dearborn firm for window repair if discover that your window leaks. They will be able complete a full assessment and let you know whether the leak is caused by the window or is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also tell you whether it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it makes more sense to replace it. After the experts have completed the repairs and evaluated the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Fog is caused by water vapor condensing on a cold, hard surface such as glass. This can happen naturally when cold air collides with humid, warm indoor air, particularly in a home where humidity is high. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed insulating gas (often Argon or Krypton) and are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits and other unattractive streaks appearing on the window.

One common remedy for foggy windows is to install a dehumidifier close to the window, which could help remove some of the moisture from the air. This does not solve the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.

Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a hose and make holes in your window to release the condensation that has been trapped. This can be effective however it is costly and is merely an aesthetic fix. It is not a replacement for the inert gas between the panes, and can leave stains and traces of rust behind.

There are a variety of reasons why a window that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal may be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has deteriorated over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in use for more than ten years and is now foggy it could be too late to make claims.

The best option to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new high-quality window that does not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will result in clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other advantages such as a more comfortable home and lower utility bills. The best way to make sure you get the best quality windows is to hire an experienced window contractor. The right contractor will ensure the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can increase your heating bills in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and could cause health issues. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps in the frame and window panes. These cracks allow cold air to pass through and warm air to exit your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep the temperature comfortable.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame can also cause a draft. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand contractor and shrink, causing seals to fail. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

A common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This could be a costly issue that requires an experienced window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

Utilizing the flame of candles to pinpoint drafty windows can help in determining where a cold air leak originates from. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should take note of any areas that the flame moves or bends. This will help you identify the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and putting in weather stripping may help reduce drafts. However, more serious problems with your window seals or panes could need a complete replacement. Talk to a window replacement expert to ensure that the windows you choose are energy-efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to ensure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills throughout the year! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide no-cost estimates! We're looking forward to hearing from you!