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How to Repair a Window Windows can break due to a variety of reasons, including wind or kids playing baseball. Often, you can get your window back in good working order by following some simple steps. The easiest fix is to use tape to cover any cracks. Alternatively, you can purchase glass repair film which is similar to tape, but is more robust. Broken or cracked Panes A damaged or cracked glass window can cause more just a unsightly appearance. It could also allow rain, wind and insects to get into your home. Double-paned windows are especially vulnerable to damage as they can destroy the insulation offered by the glass, and make your furnace or AC have to work harder to maintain a comfortable home temperature. Cracks can form in your windows due to a variety of reasons, including the weather and impact. A fall or a falling object striking the glass or simply pressure changes in your home can cause the outer layer of the window to break, whereas the inside pane is left intact. This type of crack is called a pressure crack and can be identified by a curving form, similar to an hourglass. Stress cracks may also form between the exterior and interior layers of a double pane window. These types of cracks can be caused by extreme temperature differences, particularly during the winter months, or when the glass is placed under an excess amount of pressure. There are a few quick solutions for broken or cracked window panes that will keep out wind, water and insects while you think of a permanent solution. For example, you can apply a plastic cover to the window's crack like an insulated shower curtain or a tarp made of plastic cut to size. This isn't the most attractive solution however it will keep your home dry and warm until you're able to make a permanent repair. For a longer-lasting option you can opt for glass adhesive which is normally used for vehicle windows but also works at home. You can buy this online or at most auto maintenance stores, and then follow the manufacturer's directions for applying it to your window. This type of fix will require more effort however it can last for several years and keep the crack from getting any more severe. You may want to consult with a professional, based on the degree of the crack in your window. Water Infiltration When a window leaks it can damage the appearance of your home, and also cause water stains, mold, and other damage. It is time to contact an expert if you spot water spots or stains on the wall around the window. In some instances, it could be required that the window be replaced. Leaks around windows are often caused by improper installation or the use of inferior materials, such as building paper or housewrap instead of properly designed flashing. It is also possible that the sill at the bottom of the frame is not sloped downwards to allow water to drain away from the home. If you spot leaks, it's essential to inspect both the inside and exterior of your house. Examine for signs of rot in the wood surrounding the window, damp walls and sills, and paint that is peeling or bubbling. If you notice any of these problems it's likely that the leak is coming from outside your window for a long time. A quality caulking job can resolve numerous small leaks around windows. You can apply a fresh layer of caulking on your own however, you'll need to thoroughly clean the area first in order to ensure that the caulking is properly sealed. In certain situations it may not suffice to stop a leakage particularly if it's a long-term issue. Contact a trustworthy Dearborn firm to repair your window if you find that your window is leaky. They will be able to complete a full evaluation and inform you if the leak is due to the window itself or if it's a problem with the roof, siding, gutters or wall itself. They will also assist you to determine if it is worth trying to repair the window or if it is more sensible to replace it. After the professionals have completed the repairs and assessed the damage, they can provide you with advice on how to keep your windows in good condition. Fogged Up Windows Foggy windows are more than just an unattractive problem. They can also create a serious energy efficiency issue. The cause of fog is water vapor condensing on a cold surface like glass. This happens naturally when cold air meets humid, warm indoor air, especially in homes where humidity is high. If windows become hazy the hermetically sealed insulating gases (often Argon and Krypton) are lost. They lose their effectiveness. Foggy windows can also cause streaks and calcium deposits on the glass. One common remedy for foggy windows is to place a dehumidifier near the window, which will assist in removing some of the moisture in the air. However, this does not address the underlying issue of a broken seal, and it won't prevent future window fogging. Another popular remedy is to use a drain-snake wrapped in pantyhose and drill holes into your window to remove the trapped condensation. It's a costly cosmetic fix that is effective. It doesn't replace the gas in between the panes, and will still leave behind stains and deposits on the window. There are several reasons why a double-pane window may start to fog. Damage to the seal from the frames being sanded, or pressure washing could cause the window to break, and it is possible that the hermetically sealed air/gas has simply degraded over time, especially in older homes. Many manufacturers offer a warranty to fix or replace damaged windows. However, if your window has been in place for more than ten or twenty years and has become hazy, it may be too late to make claims. The best way to fix windows that are foggy is to replace them with a new high-quality, durable window that will not have any problems with a faulty seal. This will provide clean windows with clear glass, greater energy efficiency, and many other benefits such as a warmer home and lower utility bills. The best method to make sure you purchase an excellent window is to partner with an experienced window contractor. A reputable contractor will make sure you get the proper measurements and install for a long-lasting and reliable window. Drafty Windows Windows that are drafty can cause serious issues, including increased heating costs in winter and higher cooling costs in the summer. They can cause discomfort, and even health issues within your home. Window drafts result from cracks or gaps in the window panes and frame. These gaps let cold air in and warm air out of your home, increasing the need to use your air conditioner or furnace to maintain 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 typical in older windows that have wooden casings. As time passes, the wood can expand and contract, causing seals to fall apart. This is usually corrected by re-caulking seals or by replacing them. The most common cause of drafty windows in double or triple-paned windows is a weak seal between the layers. This lets the argon escape. window repairs New Malden can be costly to fix and may require the assistance of a professional window replacement service in Glenview or other local areas. Using the flame from a candle to locate a drafty window can be helpful in determining where a cold air leak originates from. Move the flame around the perimeter of the window frame and note any spots where the flame bends or flickers. This can help you determine the source of the air draft. Certain drafts in windows can be addressed by re-caulking or adding weather stripping. If the seals in your windows are damaged or the panes have cracked, you'll have to replace them. Get in touch with an expert in window replacement to ensure your new windows are energy efficient and properly installed. This is the only way to ensure that you'll be saving money on your energy bills all year round! Contact Arch Design to learn more about our window replacement and installation services. We are happy to provide a free estimate! We look forward hearing from you!