20 Myths About Repair A Window: Busted

From Guild of Archivists

How to Repair a Window

It could be from baseball players or wind at night, windows break for a variety of reasons. You can often repair your window by following a few easy steps.

Tape is the simplest method to fix any cracks. You can also purchase glass repair film that is similar to tape, but is more robust.

Cracked or broken Panes

A broken or cracked window isn't just unattractive but it could also cause an air leak inside your home that allows wind, rain and bugs to enter. 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 the temperature of your home.

Cracks in your windows can occur from a number of causes, including impact and weather conditions. A fall that hits the glass, or even pressure changes inside your home, can cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane is not damaged. This type of crack is known as a pressure crack and is identified by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks can also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double-pane window. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature variations particularly in winter months, or when the glass is under an excess amount of pressure.

If you have a window that has cracked or broken, there are some short-term solutions to keep water, wind and insects out while you think of a long-term solution. For instance, you can apply a plastic covering to the crack in your window, such as a piece of plastic shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This method isn't pretty, but it will help keep your home warm and dry until you're able to tackle a more permanent repair.

If you want a more durable option you can choose to use glass adhesive which is normally used for window repairs in vehicles, but can also be used in your home. You can buy this adhesive online or at most auto repair stores. Follow the directions on how to apply it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort, but can last several years and prevent the crack from becoming worse. You might want to consult with a professional, based on the extent of the crack on your window.

Water Infiltration

If a window leaks it can ruin the look of your home. It can also lead to water stains, mold and other damage. If you spot water spots or stains on the wall near windows, it's likely time to contact a professional to inspect and repair the problem. In some cases it could be necessary to replace the window completely.

Leaks around windows are usually due to poor installation or the use of inferior materials like housewrap or building paper 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 home.

If you do spot a leak, it is important to take the time to look at both the interior and exterior of your home. Examine for signs 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 problems, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from the outside of your window for a long time.

A well-executed caulking job will assist in repairing minor leaks that happen around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however you'll need to thoroughly clean the area to ensure a solid seal. In certain situations it might not be enough to stop leaks especially if it's a long-term issue.

If you notice that your window is leaky, it is important to call a trustworthy Dearborn window repair service. They will be able to provide an exhaustive assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window repairs near me or is a problem with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also help you determine if it is worth attempting to repair the window or if it's better to replace it. Once the experts have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they'll provide advice on how to care for your windows.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are not just ugly, they can be a serious energy efficiency problem. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, such as glass, forming fog. It can happen naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, especially in a house where humidity is high. When window panes become foggy, the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They are less efficient. Foggy windows can also lead to streaks and calcium deposits on the glass.

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 from the air. However, this does not address the root cause of a broken window seal and won't stop future fogging.

Another popular remedy is to drill holes into the window and then use a drain snake encased in a pantyhose to remove the condensate that is trapped. This can be effective however it is costly and is only cosmetically correct. It doesn't replace the inert gases between the panes and will still leave stains and deposits behind.

There are a variety of reasons windows with double panes can begin to get a little cloudy. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded or pressure washing may cause the break, and it is possible that the gas/air hermetically sealed has deteriorated over time, especially in older homes.

Many manufacturers offer a guarantee to fix or replace damaged windows. However the window that you have been in place for more than ten years and is now hazy it might be too late for an claim.

The most effective way to fix foggy or cloudy windows is to replace them. A new, high-quality replacement window will not suffer from problems with a faulty sealing. This will result in clean, clear windows and a better energy efficiency. Additionally, it offers other advantages, including a warm home and lower energy costs. The best way to be sure you get the best quality windows is to hire an experienced and knowledgeable window contractor. A reputable contractor will ensure that the measurements are correct and will install a window that is sturdy and reliable.

Drafty Windows

Windows that are drafty can cause serious problems, like the increase in heating costs during winter and more expensive cooling costs in the summer. They can also cause discomfort and health issues within your home. Window drafts are caused by cracks or gaps around the window panes and frame. These gaps allow warm air to escape your home, and cold air to be able to enter, causing the need for your furnace or AC to perform more efficiently to keep your home at a temperature that is comfortable.

A draft in a window can be caused by issues with the seals, or weather stripping around the frame. This is especially common with older windows with wooden casings. Over time the wood may expand and contract, which causes the seals to fail. Often, this can be remedied by re-caulking or replacing the weather stripping.

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 can be costly to fix and may require the help of a professional window replacement company in Glenview or other local areas.

The flame of a candle can be used to locate the cold or drafty windows. The flame should be moved around the window's frame and you should observe any areas that the flame moves 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. However, more advanced issues with the seals on your windows or panes will likely need a complete replacement. Get in touch with a window replacement expert to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and correctly installed. You can only save money on your energy bills if you contact an expert window replacement service. Call Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you an estimate for free! We're looking forward to hearing from you!