20 Myths About Repair A Window: Dispelled

How to Repair a Window

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

The most straightforward solution is to apply tape to cover any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Cracked or broken Panes

A broken or cracked window isn't just unsightly - it can also create an air leak in your home, allowing bugs, rain, and wind to get into. double glazing repair-paned windows are more susceptible to damage, as they can ruin the insulation offered by the glass, and make your furnace or air conditioner work more hard to maintain a comfortable home temperature.

Cracks in windows can occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes in your home, could cause the outer layer to break while the inside pane is left intact. This kind of crack is called a pressure crack and is identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. Extreme temperature variations, particularly during the winter months, or excessive pressure on the glass may cause these types of cracks.

There are a few quick fixes for cracked or broken windows to block the elements of wind, water and bugs until you think of a permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic sheet to the crack in your window like a shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This method isn't particularly attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.

You can also apply the glass adhesive, which is usually used to seal windows on vehicles. It works at home as well. You can purchase this on the internet or at many auto repair shops and follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying it to your window. This type of fix is a little more labor intensive, but it will last for a few years and will keep the crack from getting worse. 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 can damage the appearance of your house, and can cause mold, water stains and other damages. It is time to call an expert if you notice spots or water stains on the wall around a window. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are often caused by poor installation or the use of inferior materials, such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It could be that the sill on the bottom of the frame hasn't been angled to let the water drain away from the house.

If you spot leaks, it is crucial to take the time to examine both the interior and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window and sills, damp walls and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you notice any of these signs, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for a long time.

A good quality caulking job can resolve several minor leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking by yourself however, you'll have to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a solid seal. In some instances, this may not be enough to stop leaks particularly if it's a long-term issue.

Contact a reputable Dearborn firm to repair your window if you discover that your window leaks. They will be able to perform a thorough evaluation and tell you whether the leak is caused by the window itself or if it is an issue with the roof, siding or gutters, or even the wall itself. They can also help you decide if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it's better to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and completed the repairs, they will be able to provide advice on how to take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows can be more than just an unsightly issue. They could also be an energy efficiency issue. Water evaporates on a cool surface, like glass, and forms fog. It can happen naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. If windows become hazy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

A common solution for foggy windows is to install a dehumidifier near the window, which can aid in eliminating some of the moisture in the air. This does not solve the root issue of a damaged window seal and won't stop future fogging.

Another option is to drill holes into the window and then use the drain snake that is wrapped in pantyhose to clean out the condensation that has been trapped. This can be very effective but it's costly and only an aesthetic fix. It won't replace the inert gas between the panes, and will leave behind deposits and stains on the window.

There are a variety of reasons a double-pane window may begin to get a little cloudy. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically-sealed air/gas has degraded with time, particularly in older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace damaged thermal windows, but when the window has been in your house for more than ten or twenty years and is now foggy it's probably past the point of a warranty claim.

The best solution to fix foggy windows is to replace them with a new high-quality window that does not have any problems with the seal being damaged. This will result in clear, clean windows as well as a higher energy efficiency. It also has other benefits, such as an insulated home and lower energy bills. A window contractor who is skilled will ensure that you receive an excellent window. A professional with experience will make sure that the measurements are correct and install a window that is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, such as higher heating costs in winter and increased cooling costs during summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts result from gaps or cracks around the frame and window panes. These cracks let warm air escape your home, and cold air to enter, increasing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may cause drafts. This is typical in older windows with wooden casings. Over time, wood may expand and shrink, causing seals to fail. This is often corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them.

The most common reason for drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This could be costly to fix and could require the assistance of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.

The flame of a candle could be used to identify the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the frame of the window and you should take note of any areas that the flame is bent or flickers. This can help you identify the source of the draft.

Re-caulking and installing weather stripping can help eliminate some drafts. If your window seals are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll have to replace them. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to ensure that your new windows are energy efficient and fitted correctly. You will reduce your energy bill if consult with an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window installation and replacement services. We're happy for you to get an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!