10 Things We Hate About Double Glazed Window Repair
Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing windows are a great alternative to conserve energy. They are susceptible to damage over time. Fortunately they can be repaired easily.
Foggy glass, condensation between the panes and mist are all indicators of problems with the seal. A professional is able to solve this issue without having to replace the entire window.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a rocks thrown at the ground, or even the force of a strong wind can crack a double pane window. If this happens, it is difficult to determine if the entire window should be replaced or if the insulation benefits of this type of glass can be restored with an easy repair.
Repairing a broken glass pane inside a double-glazed window doesn't have to be as difficult as it appears. If you have the right tools and know how to use them you can repair it yourself. With the right tools, you will avoid causing any further damage to your windows. Additionally, you will be able to avoid any injuries caused by working with glass that is sharp.
The first step is to get rid of the old sealant around the broken glass. You can do this by hand provided you have protective gloves on and a way to dispose of the waste close to hand. You can make use of a multi-purpose knife or deglazing tools to get the job done. After you've removed the sealant from the window, carefully remove the broken glass and place it in a secure place.
The next step is to prepare the frame. Use an utility knife to scrape off any old caulking or paint from the rabbets. You can then use a paint stripper or sandpaper, to expose the exposed wood. Apply a coat of primer for exterior use to the surface that is exposed.
After the rabbets have been prepared and shaped, you can apply putty on them in preparation to reinstall the glass pane. The putty should be warm and malleable, so that it can be applied to the rabbets. It is essential to press down evenly on the entire surface so that there aren't any gaps.
After the putty is been set, you can install wooden stops and silicone around the edges of your double pane window to ensure it is as secure as possible. Replace the weather stripping that is at the bottom of the frames to improve airflow and stop water from entering your home. This will also help reduce your energy bill.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows could be a sign of a broken seal, allowing draughts or moisture to enter the gap. It is prevalent in humid and moist climates where wooden frames could be damaged by excessive moisture and condensation. In this case you may have to replace the window, however, it's usually cheaper when the glass can be repaired.
This can be done by drilling small holes in the inside of the frame with the carbide-tipped drill bit in order to prevent breaking the glass panes. Repair My Windows And Doors trapped inside can be eliminated using dehumidifiers, or a cleaning agent. It's important to avoid doing this during a time that is extremely hot or cold. This will put too much strain on the glass and may cause it to shatter. Wear safety goggles and gloves as you will be working with sharp tools near the glass.
Once the fog has removed after which you can add a small tube to one of the holes. Then make use of a spray-rinse solution to wash the panes of glass and clean off any remaining debris. When the window is dry you can apply caulk to close the hole and seal the glass edge.
You may be able fix the leaky seals by yourself if you are a DIY expert. However, this can be risky and you'll have to constantly monitor the condition of the plug when it is inserted into the gap. Even if you're successful, the chances are that the problem will return in six months or so when new moisture is absorbed into the gap. This could lead to condensation and draughts within the house as well as posing an electrical hazard. This is why it's normally best to employ a licensed tradesperson to do the work.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation on double-paned windows is more than just an inconvenience. It is a sign that the seals aren't working. This allows moist air to move in and damage the gaskets and if the condensation is severe it could also cause jams or cause rot to wooden window frames. The most common way to remedy this is to have the window replaced by a new window that has proper gaskets and seals.
However, the cost of doing this is high and it is not always possible, especially if one or both of the panes have damaged or cracked. There are alternatives to replacing the entire glass that provide long-term double glazing repair solutions.
First, try to clear any condensation with a commercial defogging product like WD-40 Original For Windows. This product can be used on both sides of glass and will absorb moisture within minutes. This is best done at least once a day, but can be repeated if needed.
If the problem persists, it may be necessary for you to drill two small holes just below the lower edge of the window. The sun's heat will warm the exterior glass and any condensation inside the window will be pushed towards the holes. As the air expands, it will exit through the holes. This usually clears the window, but it will not solve the problem in the first place.
Alternatively, it is possible to employ a hole-free approach however this won't perform as well and carries the possibility of breaking or shattering the glass. Basically, a special adhesive is inserted into the cracks to prevent them from spreading further and this can be a good long-term solution, but it's not as efficient as a replacement unit that has complete sealing. It is best to employ an expert in both instances to ensure the process is properly followed and to avoid any future issues with condensation or leaks.
Mist
If there is a trace of mist on windows, it is usually an indication that the seal has failed. In some cases it is possible to repair the issue. However, in most cases, it will need to replace the unit.
This problem can happen in both new and old double-glazed windows. It is typically caused by the large temperature difference between the indoors and outdoor. This can cause condensation to build up inside the glass as the cold air comes in contact with warm air. The condensation then dries on the glass's surface and forms a fog or mist.
The way in which this is avoided with modern double glazing is that the space between the panes is filled with a gas called argon. This acts as an effective barrier between the cold and warm air. The space is also sprayed with a specific silica formula that has been designed to absorb moisture between the glass panes. These chemicals may wear off over time and you could notice a buildup of moisture inside the window.
If the condensation is only visible on the inside of the double-glazed windows it may be possible for them to be repaired rather than replaced. The repair process will involve removing the sealed unit from the frame, tearing the panes apart from the spacer bars, then cleaning each one thoroughly, and then replacing the desiccant. The end result will be a clear window that has no condensation inside. This is a great choice for those looking to save money, but don't want to replace their existing windows.
It is obvious that if you have broken panes, extensive decay or a frame that has lost its integrity then replacement will be necessary. If, however, you are experiencing an issue with the window seal, it might be possible to save your windows and make them more energy efficient again. You can reach out to an individual company in your area that is specialized in double-glazed window repairs and find out what options you have to fix your existing glazing.