How to Repair a Window

Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including wind or kids playing baseball. You can often restore your window by following a few easy steps.

The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. You can also buy glass repair films that are similar to tape, but more durable.

Broken or cracked panes

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

Cracks in your windows can occur from a number of reasons, Double Glazing Repairs Dunstable including impacts and weather conditions. A fall on the glass, or pressure changes in your home, can cause the outer layer to break, while the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack. It can be identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of a Double Glazing Repairs Dunstable pane window. Extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during winter or pressure that is too high on the glass can cause cracks like these.

If you have a window damaged or cracked there are a few quick solutions to keep wind, water and bugs out while you plan a more permanent solution. For instance, you could apply a plastic cover to the window's crack for example, an insulated shower curtain or a tarp of plastic cut to size. This isn't very attractive, but will keep your home warm until you can afford the more permanent solution.

You can also use the glass adhesive, which is commonly used to seal windows in vehicles. It works at home too. You can purchase this adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Then, follow the instructions to apply it to your window. This type of repair requires more work however it can last for several years and stop the crack from getting worse. Depending on the condition of your window you might want to speak with an expert.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it can ruin the appearance of your home, and also cause water stains, mold, and other damage. If you notice water spots or stains on the wall near the window, it's likely that you should call a professional to inspect and fix the issue. In certain cases it might be necessary to replace the window completely.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is a poor installation or the 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 is not pitched downward to drain water away from the home.

If you spot leaks, it's essential to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Examine for decayed wood around the window, damp walls, sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you spot any of these problems it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for some time.

A quality caulking job will assist in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply a new layer of caulking by yourself however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a good seal. This might not be enough to stop the leakage particularly if you've got a problem that's been going on for a while.

Contact a trustworthy Dearborn company for window repair if find that your window is leaky. They'll perform a thorough evaluation and tell you 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 help you determine if it is worthwhile to try fixing the window or whether it would make more sense to replace it. Once the professionals have assessed and made the repairs, they'll be able give you advice on how to take care of your windows in the future.

Fogged Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive issue. They can also create an energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold surface, like glass. This happens naturally when warm, moist air from the home is paired with cold air. When window panes become foggy the hermetically sealed insulation gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They become less efficient. Foggy windows may also cause calcium deposits and other unsightly streaks appearing on the window.

The most common method for fogging windows is to install a dehumidifier in the vicinity of the window, which will assist in removing some of the moisture in the air. However, this doesn't solve the root issue of a leaky seal and it won't prevent future window fogging.

Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in a pantyhose and then drill holes in your window to remove the trapped condensation. This can be effective however it is costly and is merely a cosmetic fix. It does not replace the inert gas between the panes, and can leave behind stains and deposits.

There are several reasons why double-pane windows can start to fog. Damage to the seal due to the frames being sanded or pressure washing may cause the break, and it is possible that the gas/air seal has simply degraded 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 hazy it may be too late for a claim.

The best way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems due to faulty sealing. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, as well as other benefits such as a warmer home and lower energy costs. A window contractor who is experienced will ensure you get a quality window. A professional with experience will be able to provide the proper measurements and will install for a long-lasting, reliable window.

Drafty Windows

Drafty windows can cause serious problems, like the increase in heating costs during winter and more expensive cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort and health issues within your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the window panes and frame. These cracks allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to infiltrate, making it more necessary for your AC or furnace to work harder to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

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

Another reason for drafty windows is that the seal between the layers of glass in double glazing repairs Wythenshawe or triple paned windows has been broken allowing the gas argon to escape. This is a costly issue to fix, and may require the help of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.

Utilizing the flame of candle to locate drafty windows can help determine the source of a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the edges of the window frame and note any places where the flame flickers or bends. This will help you determine the source of the draft.

Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. If your window seals are damaged or the panes are cracked, you'll require replacement. It is important to speak with an expert window replacement company to make sure that your new windows are energy efficient and installed correctly. You will only save money on your energy bill if you contact an expert window replacement company. Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to provide an estimate for you at no cost! We're looking forward to hearing from you!