How to Repair a Window

It could be from baseball players or the wind blowing through the night, windows can break for a variety of reasons. It is possible to get your window working again by following a few simple steps.

The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternately, you can buy glass repair film that is similar to tape but is more robust.

Broken or cracked Panes

A cracked or broken window isn't just unattractive it can also cause air leaks in your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to get into. Double-paned windows are more susceptible to damage as they can ruin the insulation offered by the glass and cause your AC or furnace work more hard to maintain an ideal temperature in your home.

Cracks in your windows can be caused by a variety of factors, including impact and weather conditions. An impact from a fallen object hitting the glass, or even just pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of the window to break, whereas the inner pane remains in place. This kind of crack is known as a pressure crack. It is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of a double pane window. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter or pressure that is too high on the glass may cause cracks of this kind.

If you have a window pane that is cracked or broken there are a few quick fixes to help keep wind, water and bugs out until you plan a more permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic sheet to the crack in your window like an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This method isn't pretty but it can help keep your home dry and warm until you can afford to tackle a more permanent repair.

For a longer-lasting option you can opt for glass adhesive that is typically used for window repairs in vehicles, but will also work in your home. You can buy the adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more effort but it can last for years and stop the crack from becoming more severe. You may want to consult with a professional depending on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it could ruin the appearance of your home, and also cause mold, water stains and other damages. If you notice water spots or streaks of stains on the wall close to a window, it is likely time to contact an expert to assess and fix the issue. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced.

The most frequent reason for leaks around windows is improper installation or the incorrect use of materials such as housewrap or construction paper instead of flashing that is properly designed. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame isn't pitched downward to drain water away from the home.

It is crucial to examine both the inside and exterior of your house when you notice the presence of a leak. Look for rotted wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you spot any of these problems it's likely that the leak is emanating from the outside of your window for a while.

A high-quality caulking job will help to fix several minor leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is essential to wash the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure that the caulking is sealed. In some instances it may not suffice to stop a leakage especially if it's a long-term issue.

If you discover that your window is leaked, it is important to contact a reliable Dearborn window repair company. They will be able complete an exhaustive assessment and tell you if the leak is due to the window or if it is a problem related to the siding, roof or gutters. They can also tell you if 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 will be able to give you suggestions on how to care for your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive problem. They could also be a serious energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, such as glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when warm, humid air from the home is paired with cold air. When window panes get foggy they lose their hermetically sealed gas that insulates (often Argon or Krypton) and become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

Install a dehumidifier near the window. This will help remove some of that moisture from the air. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a leaky seal and won't stop future window fogging.

Another option is to make holes in the window and use a drain snake encased in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective, but it is expensive and is only a cosmetic fix. It is not a replacement for the inert gases between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.

There are a variety of reasons why windows that has double panes could become cloudy. The seal can be damaged by either sanding or pressure-washing the frames. It is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has degraded with time, especially older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a warranty to replace or repair defective thermal windows. However, when the window has been in your house for ten or twenty-five years and is now foggy, it's likely past the point of an insurance claim.

The best way to fix cloudy or foggy windows is to replace windows. A new, high-quality replacement window will not have issues with the seal being defective. This will result in clean, clear windows, better energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy costs. The best way to be sure you get a new, quality window is to work with an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A professional with experience will be able to provide 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 costs in winter and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort in your home and even health issues. The gaps or cracks that surround the window frame and panes can cause drafts. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your AC or furnace to perform harder to keep your home at a comfortable temperature.

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

Another reason that can cause drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in double or triple paned windows is broken and allowed the gas argon to escape. This could be an expensive issue to fix and may require the help of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other nearby areas.

The flame of a candle can be used to find the cold or drafty windows. 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 identify the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes are cracked, you will require replacement. Consult with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy-efficient and installed correctly. This is the only way to be sure that you'll save 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 an estimate for free! We're looking forward to getting in touch with you!