Repair A Window: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

How to Repair a Window

Whether from kids playing baseball or the wind blowing through the night, windows are broken for a variety of reasons. In most cases you can get your window back into working order by doing some simple steps.

The simplest solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape but is more durable.

Broken or cracked panes

A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more than just a unsightly appearance. It can also allow rain, wind and insects to enter your home. If your window is double-paned it can be extremely damaging as it ruins the insulation provided by the glass and makes your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home.

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

Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane window. Extreme temperature differences, especially in winter or pressure that is too high on the glass can cause cracks like these.

There are some quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes to keep out rain, wind and insects while you think of a permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic covering to the window's crack, such as a piece of plastic shower curtain or a plastic tarp cut to size. This method isn't particularly attractive, but will keep your home warm until you are able to afford a more permanent fix.

You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows on vehicles. It can be used at home too. You can purchase this adhesive online or in many auto repair shops. Follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This kind of repair requires more work, but can last several years and prevent the crack from becoming worse. Depending on the severity of your window, you might want to talk to an expert.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can affect the appearance of your home and lead to mold, water stains and other damage. It is time to call in a professional if you notice water spots or stains on the wall surrounding the window. In certain cases, it might be required that the window be replaced.

Leaks around windows are usually caused by poor installation or the use of poor quality materials like building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled downward to let the water drain away from the house.

If you spot a leak, it is important to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Look for areas of rot in the wood surrounding the window as well as damp walls and sills, and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these issues it's likely that the leak has been coming from outside your window for a while.

A well-executed caulking job will assist in repairing small leaks that can occur around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure that the caulking is sealed. This might not be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you've got an issue that has been going on for a while.

Contact a reliable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you find that your window is leaking. They will be able to provide an assessment of the entire situation and inform you if the leak is caused by the window or is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They will also be able to 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 advice on how to maintain your windows.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than simply ugly, they could be a major energy efficiency problem. Water vapor condenses on a cool surface, like glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when warm, humid air in the home meets cold air. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

The most common method for fogging windows is to install a dehumidifier close to the window, which will aid in eliminating some of the moisture that is in the air. However, this does not tackle the root cause of a broken seal, and it will not prevent further window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to drill holes in the window and use a drain snake wrapped in pantyhoses to clear the condensation that has been trapped. It is an expensive cosmetic solution that is effective. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes and will still leave behind stains and deposits.

There are several reasons why windows with double panes can start to fog. The seal can be damaged by cleaning the frames with sandpaper or pressure. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed gas or air has degraded over time, particularly in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to repair or replace defective thermal windows. However, in the event that the window is in your home for ten or twenty years and has become foggy you're probably to be beyond the point of a warranty claim.

The best solution to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A brand new, high-quality replacement window will not have problems due to faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows and a better energy efficiency. There are other advantages, including an insulated home and lower energy costs.  window repair near me  to make sure you purchase the best quality windows is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. The right contractor will make sure that the measurements are accurate and will install a window that is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

The drafty windows of your home can cause major 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 cracks or gaps that surround the window frame and panes can create drafts. These gaps let cold air in and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to use your furnace or air conditioner to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

Issues with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may also create drafts. This is typical in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, the wood can expand and contract, causing seals to fall apart. Most of the time, this is corrected by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

Another reason for drafty windows is the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken, allowing the argon gas to escape. This could be a costly problem and could require a professional window company in Glenview, or other local areas.

The flame of a candle can be used to locate a drafty or cold window. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should take note of any areas that the flame flickers or bends. This will help you determine the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. However, more complex issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely require 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 correctly. This is the only way to be sure that you'll save money on your energy bills all year round! Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide no-cost estimates! We look forward to getting in touch with you!