When your windows crack, you want to get the problem fixed as soon as possible. Cracked window glass not only looks bad, but it also impacts the safety and efficiency of your home. You can’t rely on your windows to keep your house insulated and protected from the weather or potential theft if they have cracks spreading across the glass. However, many homeowners don’t know what their options are when they have cracked window glass. Is this a problem that can be repaired or do you need to have the entire window replaced?
Here’s what you need to know about cracked window glass and whether or not it can be repaired.
Types Of Window Cracks
There are several common causes of window cracks. When most people think of broken window glass, they think of impact cracks from when neighborhood kids accidentally throw a ball right at their window. While impact cracks are one type of crack, cracks can happen under other circumstances too. Common causes of window cracks include: impact cracks, stress cracks, and pressure cracks.
Impact Cracks
As previously mentioned, impact cracks are exactly what they sound like: a crack that happens when your window glass is hit by an object, such as a runaway ball, as well as from hail and other things that can forcefully hit your window. Impact cracks usually have a starburst pattern from where the glass was hit.
Thermal Stress Cracks
Stress cracks usually start out small, but can spread across the entirety of your window pane. They usually start at the edge of the window. This type of cracked window glass usually results from temperature fluctuations, especially when there is a significant temperature difference between the interior and exterior of your home. They can also occur as a result of mishandling, such as slamming your window shut or using too much force in opening it.
Pressure Cracks
This is the least common type of cracked window glass. These usually appear when there’s a dramatic change in pressure, such as abrupt weather changes. Pressure cracks can also happen if your window wasn’t installed properly, because improperly installed windows cannot handle changes in air pressure. These cracks are typically shaped like an hourglass.
Can Broken Window Glass Be Repaired?
So, you have cracked window glass. Do you need to replace it or is it possible to repair it? Unfortunately, when you have cracked window glass, most repairs are just temporary fixes and you will need to have the window pane replaced sooner rather than later. Typically, cracked window glass just necessitates the replacement of the glass pane, however, there are cases where you need new windows, frames and all.
Cracked window glass will eventually require replacement glass, because even if you can slow the cracking down, it will still spread over time. This affects the structural integrity of your windows, as well as the safety and aesthetic appeal of your home. Plus, cracked window glass can’t properly insulate your home, so you will likely notice your energy bills start to skyrocket. The sooner you have cracked window glass replaced, the better.
What To Do When Window Glass Cracks
When your window glass cracks, there are a few things that you can do to mitigate the damage while waiting for professional help.
Temporary Fixes
If you have cracked window glass, there are some quick, temporary fixes you can do in order to stabilize the glass panes and provide your home with some insulation. It is important to note that while these can help with cracked window glass, temporary fixes are just that: temporary. They won’t stop a crack from spreading, but they can slow down how fast it spreads.
Some temporary fixes you can do when you have cracked window glass include:
- Putting masking tape on both sides of the crack. This helps to stabilize the pane.
- Cleaning the glass and then applying superglue to the crack. This slows down the spread.
- Covering the window with plastic. This helps insulate your windows.
- Applying an adhesive material to the crack, to keep bugs and the like from getting in.
- Seal gaps around the frame with a caulking gun.
Long-Term Solutions
Ultimately, when you have cracked window glass, you’ll need to have the glass pane replaced. This job is best left to professionals. The last thing you want is a stress fracture due to improper installation because you tried to DIY it. Having a professional come out to take care of your cracked window glass will ensure the problem is taken care of properly.
Do You Have Cracked Window Glass?
Peak Windows provides broken glass repair. If you have cracked window glass, our trained professionals are here to help. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a service.