How to Repair a Double Glazed Window
Double glazing is a cost efficient method to make your home more energy efficient and to increase its energy efficiency. However, it is susceptible to faults like condensation and drafts.
While replacement is the most obvious solution to these problems but repairs are often a more cost-effective option. Let's look at some of the most popular double-glazed window repair options:
Broken Panes
The first step is to remove the broken pane. Wear gloves that are thick, and put an empty cardboard box nearby to collect any fragments of glass that fall during you work. Wear a mask and eye protection because of the risk of lead being in the frame. Utilize upvc window repairs near me to cut through the glass around the window pane that is broken. If nails or clips are holding the windowpane in the frame, you can use pliers to pull them out. After the glass has been removed, remove any old putty and glazing points. A heat gun can be used to soften the putty if necessary.
Once the old putty is removed, re-grout the grooves and apply new silicone caulk using a silicone gun. It's a good idea test the fit of the new window in its frame prior to applying the final caulking. Make sure the grooves are clean of any gunk, rust, or paint and that they are not too narrow for the window to fit into.
Then, replace the sash with an appropriate wood molding that matches the window frame. If the frame has begun to deteriorate, it is easier and more economical to replace the entire unit rather than just one pane.
In the past double-pane windows were two pieces of glass separated by a spacer, and then filled with gas or air that acted as an insulator. In recent years, manufacturers have switched to the use of insulated glass units (IGs) which are more energy efficient and resistant to seal failure. In windows that have failed IG the moisture from the outside seeps through the gap and condenses inside the glass. This cycle eventually breaks the insulating properties of the IG and leaves an unclean remnant on the glass.
To repair a damaged IG glass, the glass repair expert can replace the entire unit or could replace only the damaged surface of the glass. This can be a time-consuming and expensive process, but it's the only way to repair a leaky seal that lets water into the home. Installing windows of high-quality by a technician who has experience and buying them from a reputable company can help to prevent any future problems with seals.
Misted Panes
The window's frame holds two or three panes, separated by air-filled spaces. The air, usually filled with argon gas for better energy efficiency, helps to keep warm air inside and cold air out. Unfortunately, these windows may break and you might see a hazy, smokey fog between the glass panes. It may seem like it's time to replace the entire window but it's not as easy as removing the damaged pane and replacing it.
In most instances, a stained window suggests an issue with the seal between the two panes of the glass. The mist or condensation indicates that moisture has gotten in and is causing damage to the insulation of the double glazing. This is why it's essential to be attentive to the maintenance of your windows and keep them clean.
Condensation that forms between the panes your windows can indicate that there's a high level of humidity in the house, so it's important to dehumidify and implement other measures to increase the airflow in areas where this happens often. However, if the condensation is only on one side of the window, or is visible between the glass panes It means there is an issue with the seal, and you'll need to fix it.
There is no such thing as resealing a double-glazed window to restore its original energy-efficiency. When the seal fails the gap will let cold air into your home and warm air to escape. This reduces the insulation power of your house and will cost you more to heat.
Certain companies offer to make holes in your window's outer pane and remove the condensation. But this is only a temporary solution and will unlikely to last more than six months. You should also avoid trying to do this yourself as it could be very dangerous if you do not have the proper tools or knowledge. A double-glazing specialist will use special equipment to eliminate the condensation and install air vents that should ensure that there is no future misting.
Frame Damage
Even with the best care double glazing can develop defects. Some are minor and can be corrected but others are more serious and will need to be replaced completely. This is a choice that is made by the owner of the property, taking into consideration the level of benefits they receive from their double glazing and how much value it can bring to their home.
If you are having trouble opening or closing your windows, it could be due to misting on the glass or an issue with the frame. If this is the case, you should get your windows fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage to your double glazing, and to stop water from getting into the gap between the insulated and uninsulated.
Over time, the packaging that keeps the glass panes in their frames and stops them from moving may wear out. This can cause one or both of the glass sheets to shift slightly, which breaks the all-important seal and causes misting. The insulating space between the panes may also mist up, indicating that there is a breach in the seal.
The most frequent issue is windows that have sagged over time and are difficult to open or close. This is typically corrected by changing the hinges or mechanisms. Be aware that a lot of double-glazed windows are covered under a warranty. In this case you should contact the company from which you purchased your double-glazed window to find out what to do.
It is possible to repair your own double-glazed windows, but it's generally recommended to speak with an expert and make use of their knowledge and expertise. Professionals can diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently, and then make the necessary repairs to double glazing. This will help you keep your warranty intact, since attempting to repair windows on your own without the proper knowledge can invalidate it.
Weather Damage
Double pane windows are impervious to weather damage. However, if you live somewhere that is susceptible to icestorms, hail, high wind and torrential rainfall windows and seals could be severely damaged. The best way to ensure your windows are in good shape is to inspect them regularly and repair minor scratches and chips as soon as you detect them.
Blown windows are one of the most serious issues that you might encounter with double glazing. They occur when a gap opens between the two glass panes, which causes air and moisture to enter your home. This is usually an indication of damage to the seals or problems with the insulating material between your panes.
Condensation between the panes is yet another problem that double-glazed windows can cause. This happens when the warm air inside your home is warmer than outside air. The warmer air expands due the difference in temperature, which can cause window seals to weaken or break over time.
Double-glazed windows can also lead to foggy windows. This is a typical issue that can be resolved without replacing the IGU. This is usually a sign that the seals between the windows require resealing.
To do this, you'll have to drill a hole in between the panes of your window. You will have to drill a hole big enough to insert a pipe cleaner or another long object, with cloth at the end. The cloth end will be used to wipe your windows down and remove any excess condensate. This will help to create an even seal and stop any further fogging of your double glazed windows.
This is only temporary solution for windows that are foggy. Condensation will return as soon as it rains or there is an increase in humidity. If you are seeking a permanent solution, you'll need to replace your old IGU.