Cold weather can indeed make your windows vulnerable to cracking. But you need not worry! Window Medics is here to repair or replace your window glass and save money. Glass windows can crack as temperature decreases. This is particularly true for older or single-pane windows. There are three main ways in which cold weather can lead to window cracks: thermal stress, impact, and pressure.
Thermal Stress Cracks: These cracks occur when there are significant temperature differences across the window or if part of the window is in the shade while another part is exposed to sunlight. The varying expansion and contraction of the glass due to temperature differences can lead to cracks.
Impact Breaks: While cold weather is not directly responsible for this type of crack, it can still happen during winter. Impact cracks occur when something strikes the window, such as a snowball containing ice or a storm throwing a broken tree branch against the glass.
Pressure Cracks: Changes in barometric pressure, which refers to the air pressure in the atmosphere, can lead to pressure cracks. Rapid and extreme pressure changes can cause windows to crack. Repairing pressure cracks may require replacing the window panes and the frame.
When to Call Window Medics for Window Glass Repair and Replacement
Recognizing the signs your glass window needs professional glass repair and replacement early prevents the cracks from getting severe. Call Window Medics as soon as you notice the signs of the below-mentioned cracks.
- Thermal stress cracks start as perpendicular cracks at the glass edge but can splinter off into other directions.
- Impact cracks result in starburst patterns, with the most severe damage at the point of impact and radiating outwards.
- Pressure cracks usually take on an hourglass shape.
If you need help determining whether you need window glass repair or replacement services, connect with Window Medics. Our glass repair and replacement specialists will advise you on whether the glass can be repaired or if you need glass replacement. They can also guide in preventing future cracks.
Preventing Winter Window Cracks
Preventing window cracks in cold weather is crucial, especially for older or single-pane windows. Here are some steps to help protect your windows:
Thicker Glass, Stronger Defense
Thicker glass is your best defense against thermal stress cracks. To keep your windows intact during the cold, thicker glass is more resilient and less prone to cracking due to temperature differences. It’s like giving your windows an extra layer of warmth and protection.
Pruning Trees: A Preventive Measure Against Impact Cracks
Broken tree branches can become projectiles during winter storms, causing impact cracks on your windows. Here’s how you can protect your windows:
- Keep your trees well-maintained by pruning dead or precarious branches to reduce the risk of falling during storms.
- If a tree is dead or poses a significant risk, consider having it removed to prevent potential damage to your home.
Protecting Against Pressure Cracks
Pressure cracks are rare, but you can maintain your frames and windows well. Consult local window glass repair professionals for guidance on preventing pressure cracks if it’s a concern.
What if Cracks Occur?
Despite your best efforts, cracks may still occur. In such cases, it’s essential to address them promptly to prevent further damage and ensure the safety and comfort of your home.
Window Glass Repair vs. Window Replacement: Which is best?
The decision between window repair and replacement depends on the severity and type of the crack.
Repairing Cracks
More minor thermal stress cracks can often be repaired. Repair involves filling the crack with a specialized resin to restore the glass’s integrity.
The repairability of impact breaks depends on the extent of the damage. Minor cracks can often be repaired, while severe damage may necessitate glass replacement.
Replacing Windows
If the crack is extensive or compromises the structural integrity of the window glass, it’s safer and more cost-effective to replace just the glass instead of the entire window.
In most cases, cracked windows can be repaired by Window Medics. Even if a window is beyond restoration, it is a good idea to connect with Window Medics first to see if your existing glass window can be restored effectively.
Window Medics: Your Window’s Best Friend
Dealing with window cracks and issues, especially during winter, can be daunting. That’s where the Window Medics professionals come in. Let’s delve deeper into why seeking expert assistance from Window Medics is your window’s best friend.
Expertise: Our window glass repair technicians have extensive knowledge of window types, materials, and repair techniques. They can accurately diagnose the issue and recommend the most suitable solution.
Quality Repairs: Window Medics professionals use specialized materials and techniques to ensure the repaired window is as good as new. It extends the window’s lifespan and maintains its performance.
Time-Efficient: Experienced technicians at Window Medics can complete glass repairs or replacements more quickly and efficiently than a DIY approach, minimizing disruption to your daily life.
Aesthetics: Window Medics professionals can ensure that repairs are nearly invisible, preserving the appearance and value of your home.
Your local window professionals, Window Medics, offer expert broken glass repair and replacement window services. We serve Ottawa and across Canada and provide valuable insights on safeguarding your windows from cold-induced cracks. Whether it’s repairing the glass or replacing it, we’ve got you covered.
Winter doesn’t have to be synonymous with window troubles. Take the necessary steps to keep your windows in top shape, and let your home be a haven of coziness and protection, even in the coldest months of the year.
Don’t let winter’s chill leave your home vulnerable. Contact us today at 613-519-1317 or ottawa@windowmedics.com to discover our services and keep your windows in top-notch condition, even when the cold winds howl outside.
