How to Repair a Double Glazed Window
Double glazing is an effective way to insulate your home and improve its energy efficiency. However, it is susceptible to problems like condensation and draughts.
Repairs are often more cost-effective than replacement. Let's look at a few of the most commonly used options for double-glazed window repairs.
Broken Panes
The first step is to remove the broken pane from the frame. Wear thick work gloves, and put a box of cardboard nearby to catch any pieces of glass that fall as you work. Use a utility knife to cut the glass around the window pane that has been broken, making sure to wear a mask and eye protection due to the possibility of lead in the frame. If nails or clips are securing the windowpane the frame, you can use pliers to pull them out. After the glass has been removed, remove any old putty and glazing points. If necessary, a heat gun can be used to soften the putty.
After the old putty is gone, re-grout grooves and apply silicone caulk using a silicone caulking tool. Before applying the final caulk it is a good idea to check the fit of the new window into its frame. Be sure that the grooves are free of any rust, gunk or paint, and that they aren't too narrow for the window to fit into.
Replace the sash by a wooden molding to match the frame. If the frame has begun to deteriorate it is much easier and more economical to replace the entire unit than just a single pane.
In the past, double pane windows were made of two pieces of glass, separated with an air spacer. They were then filled with air or an gas used to insulate. However, in recent years manufacturers have switched to glass units that are insulated (IGs) which are more efficient in terms of energy efficiency and resist seal failure. In a window with a failed IG moisture from the air outside reaches the glass and condenses inside the glass. This cycle eventually breaks down the insulating properties and leaves a hazy film on the glass.
A glass repair specialist could replace the entire IG or only the damaged surface. It can be a lengthy and costly process, however it is the only way to fix a damaged seal that lets water into the home. Installing high-quality windows by a technician with experience and purchasing windows from a reputable business will help prevent any future problems with seals.
Misty Panes
The window frame holds two or more panes of glass each separated by an air-filled space. The air, which is usually filled with argon gas to ensure better energy efficiency, helps to keep warm air inside and cold air outside. Unfortunately, windows may break and you may be able to see a smokey, hazy fog between the glass panes. It might seem like it's time to replace the window, but you aren't able to simply replace the broken one.
In most instances, a window that is misty suggests an issue with the seal between the two panes of glass. The mist or condensation means that moisture has penetrated, which damages the insulation qualities of double-glazing. It is important to maintain your windows and to keep them clean.
Condensation that forms between the panes your windows is a sign that there's too much humidity in the house, so it's important to dehumidify the area and take other measures to increase the airflow in rooms where this occurs frequently. If the condensation is visible on one side of your window or between the panes, then you'll need to have the seal replaced.
It is not possible to reseal double-glazed windows to bring back the original energy efficiency. If the seal is damaged the gap can let cold air into your home and warm air to escape. This will affect the insulation of your home, making it more expensive to heat.
Some companies offer a service where they drill holes into the outer pane of your window and then drain out the condensation, however this is a temporary solution and won't last longer than six months. It's not recommended you attempt this yourself, since it could be extremely dangerous without the right tools and knowledge. A double-glazing specialist will use specialist equipment to safely eliminate the condensation and install air vents to ensure that there is no the possibility of misting in the future.
Frame Fragment Damage
Even with the best of care double glazing can develop defects. Some are minor and can be corrected while others are more serious and need to be replaced completely. The owner of the home should make this decision considering the advantages of double glazing and the value it can bring to the property.
If you have trouble opening and closing your windows it could be caused by misting or an issue with the frame. If upvc windows repairs near me is the case, you must have your windows fixed as quickly as possible to prevent any further damage to your double glazing, and to stop water from getting into the gap between the insulated and uninsulated.
Over time, the protective layer that holds the glass panes in their frames and keeps them from moving can wear out. This can cause the glass sheets to move, which can cause the seal to break and lead to misting. Mist can also form within the gap that is used to insulate between the panes which indicates that the seal has been damaged and it's now time to make double glazing repairs.
Another issue that is common is that windows are beginning to shrink over time and make it difficult to open and close them. This can be corrected by changing the mechanisms and hinges. It is important to note that a lot of new double glazed windows come with a warranty and in this case it's best to call the company from which you bought your double glazing to get specifics on what to do next.
It is possible to fix your own double-glazed windows, however it is usually better to talk to a professional and take advantage of their knowledge and expertise. Professionals are able to determine the problem and provide the proper double glazing repair quickly and efficiently. You can also avoid voiding the warranty by not attempting to repair your windows without the proper expertise.
Weather Damage
While you may think of double pane windows as being resistant to weather damage but if you live in an area that is susceptible to hail storms, ice storms high winds, and torrential rains windows and seals could take some serious battering. It is crucial to inspect your windows regularly and repair any minor damage or scratches when they are noticed.
Blown windows are one of the most serious issues you may encounter with double glazing. If a gap is visible between the two panes of glass air and moisture could seep into your home. This is typically a sign of deterioration or a flaw in the insulating material that separates the panes.
Another problem that many homeowners have with double-glazed windows is condensation that forms between the panes. This occurs when the warm air inside your home is warmer than the outside air. The warmer air expands due the difference in temperature, which could cause window seals to become weak or break over time.
Double-glazed windows can also lead to foggy windows. This is a typical issue that can be solved without replacing the IGU. This is usually a sign that the seals between your window's panes need to be resealed.
To do this, you'll have to drill an opening between the window panes. You will need to drill a hole large enough to accommodate a pipe cleaner or another long object, with fabric at the end. Then, you'll need to use the cloth to clean your windows and get rid of any condensation that is not removed. This will help create a tight seal again and stop any further fogging of your double glazed windows.
It's important to keep in mind that this is only an interim solution to your windows that are foggy. Condensation will return as soon as it rains, or if there is an increase in humidity. If you are seeking a permanent solution, you will have to replace your old IGU.