How To Outsmart Your Boss Repair A Window How to Repair a Window

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

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

Cracked or Broken Panes

A cracked or broken window isn't just unsightly but it could 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 make your AC or furnace work harder to maintain a 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, may cause the outer layer to break while the inner pane remains intact. This type of crack is called a pressure crack. It can be distinguished by a curving shape similar to an hourglass.

Stress cracks may also form between the outside and inside layers of double pane windows. These kinds of cracks could be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is subject to excessive pressure.

There are several quick fixes for cracked or broken window panes that will keep out the elements of wind, water and insects while you plan a permanent solution. You could cut a piece to size of plastic shower curtain to cover the crack. This method isn't pretty, but it will help keep your home warm and dry until you can afford to make a permanent repair.

To make a long-lasting choice you can choose to use glass adhesive that is typically used for vehicle windows but can also be used at home. You can purchase it online or at many auto maintenance stores, and then follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This kind of repair will require more effort, but can last several years and prevent the crack from getting worse. You may want to consult with a professional based on the severity of the crack in your window.

Water Infiltration

When a window leaks, it could ruin the appearance of your home and can cause mold, water stains and other damages. If you notice water spots or stains on the wall near the window, it's likely that you should call an expert to look into and repair the problem. In certain cases, it may be necessary to replace the window entirely.

The most common cause of leaks around windows is improper installation or the use of certain materials like building paper or housewrap 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 if you notice a leak. Check for rot-prone areas in the wood around the window, damp walls and sills and paint that is bubbling or peeling. If you find any of these signs, it's likely that the leak has been emanating from outside your window for some time.

A quality caulking job can help resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply the caulking yourself, but it is crucial to clean the area thoroughly before applying it to ensure a seal. This might not be enough to stop the leakage, particularly if you've got a problem that's been brewing for a long time.

Contact a reputable Dearborn firm for window repair if you discover that your window leaks. They can provide a full assessment and let you know whether the leak is due to the window or if it is an issue that is with the roof, siding or gutters. They can also tell you if it's worth trying to fix the window, or if it's better sense to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they will give you advice about how to keep your windows in good condition.

The windows are smudges. Up Windows

Foggy windows are more than just a visual problem. They can also create an energy efficiency problem that is serious. Water evaporates and condenses on a cold surface, such as glass, to form fog. This can occur naturally when warm, moist air in the home meets cold air. If windows become cloudy, they lose their hermetically sealed gas insulation (often Argon or Krypton) and lose their efficiency. Foggy windows can also lead to calcium deposits as well as other unattractive streaks on windows.

The most common method for fogging windows is to install a dehumidifier close to the window, which can help remove some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not address the root issue of a window seal that is broken and won't stop future fogging.

Another popular remedy is to drill holes in the window and then use a drain snake wrapped in a pantyhose to remove the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is effective. It does not replace the gas in between the panes, and it will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window.

There are many reasons why a double-pane window may start to fog. The seal may be damaged by sanding the frames or pressure-washing. It is also possible that the hermetically sealed gas or air has degraded over time, especially older homes.

A lot of manufacturers offer a guarantee to repair or replace defective thermal windows, but in the event that the window is in your home for ten or twenty years and is now hazy it's probably beyond the scope of a warranty claim.

The best solution to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a brand new, high-quality window that will not be affected by the seal being damaged. This will result in clean, clear windows and better energy efficiency. It also has other benefits, such as warmer homes and lower energy costs. The best way to make sure you purchase a new, quality window is to work with an experienced window installer. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the correct measurements and installation for a long-lasting, dependable window.

Drafty Windows


Windows that are drafty are a major problem that can raise your heating bills in winter, and cooling costs in summer. They can also cause discomfort within your home, and may cause health issues. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps around the window panes and frame. These cracks let cold air in and warm air to exit your home, causing you to have to run your furnace or air conditioner to maintain a comfortable temperature.

Problems with the weather stripping or seals around the frame may cause drafts. This is most common with older windows with wooden casings. As time passes, wood will expand and shrink and cause seals to fail. This is often corrected by re-caulking seals or replacing them.

The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a broken seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. This is a costly issue to fix, and may require the services of an experienced window replacement company in Glenview or other areas in the area.

Utilizing the flame of candle to locate a drafty window can help determine the location where a cold leak is coming from. 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 identify the source of the air draft.

Certain drafts in windows could be addressed by re-caulking the window or adding weather stripping. However, more serious problems with your window seals or panes may need a complete replacement. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. You can only reduce your energy bill if you contact an expert window replacement service. Contact Arch Design today to find out more about our window replacement and installation services. We're happy to give you a a free estimate! We look forward hearing from you!