7 Easy Tips For Totally Rocking Your Double Glazed Window Repair
Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double-glazing windows are a great option to reduce energy consumption. However, they can be damaged as time passes. Fortunately, they can be repaired fairly easily.
A problem with the seal can be identified by foggy glass, condensation inside the panes, or mist. A professional can usually fix this problem without having to replace the entire window.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a hurled rock or even the blow of a strong wind can cause a crack in a double pane window. When this happens, it is difficult to determine if the entire window has to be replaced or the insulation benefits of this kind of glass can be restored with a simple repair.
Repairing a damaged glass pane in a double-glazed window doesn't have to be as difficult as it appears. You can do it yourself if you have the right tools and know how to utilize them. By using the right tools, you can avoid further damage to your windows. You will also be able to avoid injuries due to working with glass that is sharp.
The first step is to take the old sealant that was sat on the broken glass. This can be done by hand, as long that you wear gloves and have a method for disposal in your the ready. You can use a multi-purpose knife or deglazing tools to get the job done. After you have removed the sealant from the window, take care to remove the broken glass and put it in a safe place.
The next step is to prepare the frame. Use an utility knife to scrape any old caulking or paint that has accumulated on the rabbets. Then, you can use a paint stripper or sandpaper to expose exposed wood. Apply an exterior primer to the exposed area.
Once the rabbets are prepared then you can apply putty on them in preparation for reinstalling the glass pane. The putty should be soft and warm so that it can be pressed into the rabbets. It is important to apply pressure evenly over the entire surface, ensuring that there aren't any gaps.
Once glazier has been set, you can install the wooden stops and silicone the edges to ensure that double pane windows are as secure as you can. Replace the weather stripping on the bottom of the frames in order to improve airflow and prevent water from entering your home. This will also reduce the cost of energy.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows are an indication of a damaged seal, allowing drafts or moisture to get into the gap. This is more common in humid and wet climates where the wooden frames can rot if exposed to too much water and condensation. In this situation you may have to replace the window, but it is generally more cost-effective when the glass can be repaired.
To ensure that the glass is not broken, drill small holes inside the frame using a carbide-tipped drill. The trapped moisture can be removed using a dehumidifier, or a cleaning agent. It is essential to avoid doing this on a day that's extreme cold or hot. This puts too much pressure on the glass and may cause it to break. It's also a good idea to wear gloves and safety goggles as you'll be working with very sharp tools that are close to the glass.
After the fog has gone, you can apply a small spray tube to one of your holes and use it to wash the glass. When the window is dry you can apply caulk to close the hole and seal the glass edge.
You may be able repair the leaky seals yourself if you're an expert in DIY. However, this is a risky job and you'll have to constantly check the condition of the plug when it is inserted into the gap. Even if the issue is solved but it's likely to come back within six months, as moisture will re-infiltrate the gap. This could cause condensation and draughts in the home, as well as being an electrical risk. It is best to employ an experienced professional to complete the job.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation on double paned windows is more than an inconvenience. It indicates that the seals are not working. This allows moisture to get in, which can damage gaskets and, if the condensing gets too severe, it can also jam or rot wood window frames. This is typically repaired by replacing the window new ones that have gaskets and sealings.
It can be costly and not always possible. Particularly in the event that either or both of the panes are cracked or broken. There are alternatives to replacing the entire glass unit that offer long-term double glazing repair solutions.
The first step is to try to eliminate the condensation using a defogging spray that is commercially available like WD-40 Original for Windows. This spray can be used on both sides of glass and will soak up moisture in just a few minutes. This should be done once a day at the very least, but you can repeat the process if you need to.
If the problem persists then it may be necessary to drill a couple of small holes into the exterior of the window, near the bottom edge. When the sun shines on the outer glass it will warm up and if there's any condensation in the window, it will flow towards the holes, and then be emitted through the holes as the air expands. This is usually enough to clear the window of condensation, but because it has not addressed the root of the problem in the initial place it is likely to remain a problem for a long time.
Alternately, it is possible to use a hole-free method but it won't perform as well and could run the risk of shattering or cracking the glass. This is a long-term fix that involves the application of a special glue in the cracks. It may be effective however, it is not as effective as a replacement that has an entire seal. In both cases, it is best to have the job completed by a professional to ensure that the procedure is carried out correctly and to avoid the issues of condensation or leaks.
Mist
If there is a trace of mist on windows this is usually an indication that the seal has failed. In some instances, this is a repairable issue, however most of the time it will require replacement of the seal.
This problem can occur with both old and new double-glazed windows. This usually occurs when there is a big temperature difference between outside and indoors. When cold air is pushed against the warm air, condensation can form inside the window. The condensation dries on the surface of the window making fog or mist.
Modern double glazing works by filling the space between the glass panes with the gas argon. This gas acts as an air barrier between cold and warm air. The area is also sprayed with a specific formula of silica which is designed to absorb moisture between panes of glass. These chemicals may wear off with time and you might see moisture build up in the window.
If the condensation is confined on the inside of your double glazed windows, it might be possible to fix the windows instead of replacing them. The repair will involve taking your sealed unit out of the frame. The panes will be separated from the spacer bars, and cleaning them thoroughly. The result should be a clear window that has no more condensation on the inside. This is an excellent option for those who wish to save money, but don't want to replace their existing windows.
If you've got broken panes, extensive rot, or a frame that has lost its integrity then replacement is required. If you are experiencing issues with the seal on your windows it is possible for your windows to be saved and made more energy efficient. Contact a local company that specialises in double glazed window repairs to see what your options are to fix your current glazing.