Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing windows are a great alternative to conserve energy. They are susceptible to being damaged over time. Fortunately, they can be repaired fairly easily.
Foggy glass, condensation between panes, and mist are all indications of an issue with the seal. The good news is that a professional can typically repair the issue without replacing the entire window.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a hurled rock or even the force of a strong wind can crack windows with double panes. When this happens, it's difficult to determine if the whole window has to be replaced or whether the insulation benefits of this type of glass can be restored with an easy repair.
Repairing a broken glass pane in a double-glazed window isn't as complicated as it may seem. You can do it yourself if you have the right tools and know how to make use of them. Making use of the right tools will ensure that you're not adding any additional damage to your windows. You will also be able to avoid injuries due to working with sharp glass.
The first step is to remove the old sealant around the broken glass. This can be done by hand, so long as you wear protective gloves and have a means of disposal in your fingertips. Use a multipurpose tool or a deglazing knife to complete the job. After you've removed the sealant from the window, you must carefully remove the broken glass and put it in a safe location.
The next step is to prepare the frame. Utilize a utility knife to scrape away any caulking or paint that has accumulated on the rabbets. The wood can be exposed by using a paint remover or sandpaper. Apply a coat of primer for exterior use to the surface that is exposed.
After the rabbets have been prepared, you can apply putty on the rabbets in preparation for reinstalling the new glass pane. The putty should be soft and warm enough that it can be used in the rabbets. It is crucial to apply pressure evenly over the entire surface, so that there are no gaps.
After the putty has set, you can put back in the wooden stops and silicone the edges to ensure that your double pane windows are as tight as you can. Replace the weather stripping that is at the bottom of the frames to increase airflow and prevent water from entering your home. This can also reduce your energy bills.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows can be an indication of a weak seal, which allows draughts or moisture to pass through the gap. Most prevalent in humid and moist climates where wooden frames may get rotten when exposed to too much moisture and condensation. In this situation you might need to replace the window, however, it is usually more cost-effective when the glass can be repaired.
To ensure that the glass is not broken to avoid breaking it, make small holes in the frame with a carbide-tipped tool. The moisture that is trapped can be removed using the aid of a dehumidifier or cleaning agent. If you're trying to accomplish this, it's important not to choose a time that the sun is extremely hot or extremely cold. This could cause the glass to break. Wear safety goggles and gloves as you will be working with sharp tools close to the glass.
After the fog has been cleared, you can then add the tube in one of the holes. Then apply a spray rinse solution to wash down the panes of glass and clean off any remaining debris. After the window has dried, you can apply a caulk around both the hole and the glass's edge to shield it from the elements.
You may be able to fix the leaky seals by yourself if you're a DIY expert. This can be a dangerous job, and you will need to monitor the condition of any plugs inserted into the gap. If you're successful however, it is likely that the issue will recur in about six months, or so, when new moisture is absorbed into the gap. This can cause draughts and condensation in the home, as also posing as an electrical hazard. This is the reason it's best to employ a licensed tradesperson to do the work.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation in double pane windows is not only a problem it is a sign that the seals between the glass are failing. This allows moist air to get in which could harm the gaskets and, when the condensation is very severe it could also cause jams or cause rot to wooden frames. The most common method to fix this is to replace the window with a new unit that is fitted with the proper gaskets and seals.
However, the expense of doing this can be high and it is not always feasible, particularly 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. The spray can be sprayed on both sides of the glass and will usually absorb all moisture within minutes. This should be done at least every day, but can be repeated if needed.
If the issue continues to persist, it might be necessary to make a couple of small holes into the exterior of the window, near the bottom edge. When the sun shines through the glass it will warm up, and if there's any condensation in the window this will flow towards the holes, and then be vented out through the holes as the air expands. This usually clears the window of condensation but because it has not solved the issue in the first place, it is likely to be a continuing issue.
It is also possible to use an alternative that does not require holes, however it repair double glazing window won't be as effective and may crack or break the glass. Basically, a special adhesive is put into the cracks to stop them spreading further. This could be a viable long-term solution, however it is not as effective as a replacement unit equipped with complete sealing. 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 leaks or condensation.
Mist
If a mist appears on a window it is usually a sign that the seal of the window has failed. In certain cases, this can be repaired. However, in most instances, it will require replacing the seal.
This problem can happen with both old and new double-glazed windows. It is usually caused by an extreme temperature difference between the indoors and outdoor. This can cause condensation to form inside the glass when the cold air comes into contact with the warm air. The condensation then dries on the glass's surface making fog or mist.
The way that this is avoided with modern double glazing is that the space between the panes is filled with a gas known as argon. The gas acts as a barrier between cold and warm air. The space is also sprayed with an exclusive silica-based formula that is designed to absorb moisture between panes of glass. These chemicals will wear out over time and you may see moisture build up in the window.
If the condensation is only occurring on the inside of the double-glazed windows it is possible for them to be repaired instead of replaced. Repairing them involves removing the sealed unit from the frame, cutting the panes in two, separating them from the spacer bars, and then cleaning each one thoroughly, and then replacing the desiccant. The end result should be a clean window with no more condensation on the inside. This is a great option for those looking to save money, but don't want to replace their windows.
If your glass is broken or extensive rot, as well as a frame with lost integrity It is evident that replacement is needed. If you have a problem with the window seal it is possible to have your windows saved and improved in energy efficiency. You can contact an individual company in your area that is specialized in repairs to double-glazed windows and discover what options you have for fixing the current glass.