Keeping windows in good shape helps maintain your home’s value and protect it from the elements. Until you can afford a more permanent solution, many cost-effective and quick fixes can make your window more secure.
Cover any broken window glass with plywood and tape. This makeshift barrier can keep air from entering your home and prevent rain from coming in. Contact Window Repair Naperville now!
A cracked or broken window is a serious issue that requires a professional solution as soon as possible. Whether it is an older picture window, double-paned windows, or even single-pane glass found in mirrors and some glassware, a professional can repair it to ensure it is safe and secure.
Depending on the location, size, and severity of the crack or chip in your glass, replacing the entire IGU window may be necessary. This is a more significant project, and the cost of replacing it is more costly than simply repairing one broken glass pane.
A professional glazier can offer an array of glass options to improve your home’s energy efficiency and protect it from the elements. For example, Low-Emissivity (Low-E) glass reduces heat loss through windows and lowers glare. Safety glass, also known as tempered glass, is strong and durable and resists forces caused by heat, wind and impact.
When deciding if you should repair or replace your glass, it is important to consider the cost and sentimental value of the window. If your original windows are an heirloom set that hold special meaning, it may be worth it to go the repair route.
The answer to the question “should I repair or replace my windows?” should also be based on your long-term goals for your home. If you’re looking to save money or increase your property value, it may make more sense to replace your windows. New windows can offer energy savings of 30-50% and improve your home’s appearance, comfort, and resale value.
Window replacement involves:
- Removing the entire frame from the wall.
- Insulating the area around it to prevent moisture and air infiltration.
- Installing new IGUs with proper sealing and insulation.
It is an involved process that a trained, professional glazier can complete safely and efficiently. Professionals can also address problems with locks, balances, sashes, and the frame. They maintain a library of glass samples from the many different manufacturers who sell their product to Arizona homeowners, and can compare these to your existing windows for an exact match.
Insulating Glass Unit (IGU) Replacement
IGUs are an innovative solution to improve window efficiency and comfort. They combine two or more glass panes with a sealed air space that is filled with argon or another inert gas to reduce heat transfer and improve indoor air quality. Many insulating windows carry an Energy Star label that indicates strict energy performance standards.
As with any window, IGUs are susceptible to various forms of damage and wear and tear. The good news is that a number of these issues are easy to repair, especially when they’re caught early.
Wood rot on window frames and sills, for example, is a common problem that can easily spread and degrade the rest of the frame. Likewise, cracks in window frames and glass are another issue that needs to be dealt with promptly before it worsens.
Loose or rattling windows can be caused by the wood expanding and contracting in different weather conditions, causing your window to loosen and rattle. This is a sign of window failure and should be repaired immediately to prevent further damage and increase efficiency.
Stiff or broken hinges also require immediate attention. These are signs that the hinges aren’t absorbing or supporting the weight of your window properly, which can cause the frame to warp and reduce your home’s security and energy efficiency.
Lastly, a cracked or chipped glass pane is a clear indicator that it’s time to replace the IGU. It’s important to do so quickly to avoid further damage to the window, which can lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
To replace the IGU, start by running a thin bead of clear neutral-cure silicone around the frame to ensure it’s watertight. Then drop in the new insulated window and make sure any setting blocks are correctly positioned. If they’re caulked, simply slice through the old caulk with a utility knife. If not, reposition them and tack them in place with 3/4-in. brads spaced every 6 in. When the silicone has dried, apply a new coat of exterior-grade caulk to ensure that any repaired areas are waterproof.
Glass Repair
Keeping your windshield and car windows free of chips, cracks and frost is essential for the safety of you and your passengers. Windshield damage typically happens from impact with rocks or other debris that break the outer layer of the glass, exposing the inner material. A professional can repair these imperfections with a specialized resin that fills and restrengthens the damaged area. The procedure may be complicated, however, depending on the extent of the damage and the quality of the tools used by the technician. While do-it-yourself kits are available, experts use advanced tools and a variety of specialized resins to ensure an optimal repair outcome.
The location of the chip or crack also plays a role in determining whether it makes sense to repair instead of replacing the windshield. If a crack is in the driver’s line of vision, for example, replacing it may be a better option than fixing it because the crack could spread and cause injury if the vehicle is involved in an accident.
Windshield patching is a common method used in do-it-yourself repair kits. Unlike resin, this type of glass adhesive does not work its way into the affected area and only holds the damaged surface together. It does not strengthen the damaged material and should not be used by professionals.
Many homeowners who need window repair choose to use Loctite glass glue, which bonds well to all glass types and does not leave any residue on the surface. Its applicator designs allow for easy, clean, and accurate application without the need for clamping or additional tools. Loctite glass glue is also water resistant and dishwasher safe.
When repairing a window, it is important to note that the window track must be in good working order for the window to open and close correctly. If the window track is damaged, it should be repaired prior to installing new window glass. This is especially critical for vehicles, where the power window regulators that control the opening and closing of the windows can sometimes be subject to wear and tear or fail due to faulty motors or other problems.
Window Replacement
A window replacement is the best option if your windows are old and worn out. In addition, some problems with windows can’t be repaired and may require replacement, such as rotting frames or sash that won’t open. Replacing your windows may also be an opportunity to upgrade to energy-efficient models.
A damaged or outdated window can negatively impact the appearance of your home. It can also compromise your home’s safety and security. Many homeowners find themselves in a dilemma when they notice issues with their windows, whether they need repair or replacement.
Wood rot in window frames or sills weakens the structure of your home and can lead to extensive damage in just a short time period. It’s important to fix these problems quickly to avoid structural failure and expensive repairs.
Oftentimes, these problems are caused by water infiltration that can be addressed with caulking and weather stripping. However, in some cases, the cause of the problem is not related to the window and may be an indication that other components like shims, house sheathing, and siding are in need of attention. In these cases, window replacement may be the best option for your Anne Arundel County home.
Another common problem with older windows is that the upper or lower sashes won’t open and close properly. This could be due to multiple layers of paint bridging the frame and sash or a broken cord on the sash weights or springs. Fortunately, these are easy fixes that most do-it-yourselfers can tackle. Typically, a rot-free aluminum drip cap is purchased at your local home center, nailed into place, and caulked around the perimeter of the window.
If the only issue is a cracked pane of glass, this can easily be repaired by having a professional remove the existing sash, scrape and apply putty to the sash track or jamb, then bend new glass to fit and install it. If you’re looking to replace an entire window, there are two options: a full-frame replacement or a pocket replacement. In a full-frame replacement, the old sash and frame are removed and replaced with a new window that has an attached frame. In a pocket replacement, the old sash is removed but the frame stays in place and the new window is installed into the old frame.