Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing windows are a fantastic alternative to conserve energy. However, they can be damaged over time. Luckily, they're simple to fix.
A leaky seal can be detected by foggy glass, condensation in between the panes, and even mist. A professional can often fix this problem without having to replace the entire window.
Broken Panes
A rock thrown or even a fierce breeze can crack the double-pane windows. And, when this happens, it may be difficult to know if the whole window must be repaired or if it can be salvaged the insulation benefits that this type of glass is known for.
The good news is that fixing a damaged pane of glass in a double-glazed window is not as complicated as it appears. If you've got the right tools and know how to use them, you can do this yourself. Utilizing the correct tools will ensure that you're not causing further damage to your windows. You can also avoid injuries handling sharp glass.
The first step is removing the old sealant from the broken glass. You can do this by hand as long as you have gloves to protect yourself and a way to dispose of the waste 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, you can carefully remove the broken pane and place it somewhere safe for interim storage.
The next step is to prepare the frame. Use a utility knife to scrape off any caulking or paint on the rabbets (the grooves in the sash that the glass rests). Then, you can use a paint stripper or sandpaper to expose naked wood. Apply an exterior primer to the exposed area.
Then, you can apply putty on the rabbets in preparation for the installation of the glass. The putty must be soft and malleable to be put into the rabbets. It is important to evenly press down on the entire surface, so that there are no gaps.
Once the putty has set, you can put wooden stops and silicone around the edges of your double pane window to make sure it is as tight as you can. Replace the weather stripping that is at the bottom of the frames to increase airflow and prevent water from getting into your home. This will also help lower your energy bills.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows are an indication of a damaged seal, which allows draughts or moisture to pass through the space. This is most common in humid and wet climates where the wooden frames may rot if exposed to too much water and condensation. If this is the case, a new window may be needed but it's generally cheaper to fix the issue with the existing glass unit.
This can be accomplished by drilling small holes in the inside of the frame using a carbide-tipped drill bit to avoid breaking the glass panes. The moisture trapped inside can be removed using dehumidifiers, or a cleaning agent. It is important not to do this during a time that is extremely hot or cold. This could cause the glass to break. It's also an excellent idea to wear safety glasses and gloves as you'll be working with very sharp tools close to the glass.
After the fog has gone, you can apply small spray tubes to one of lock repairs near me your holes and use it to wash the glass. After the window has dried it is possible to apply caulk around both the hole and the edge of the glass to shield it from the elements.
You might be able to repair the leaky seals yourself if you are a DIY expert. However, this is a risky job and you'll need to check the condition of the plug that is installed into the gap. If you're successful, the chances are that the problem will return within six months or so when new moisture is absorbed into the gap. This can cause condensation and draughts in the house as well as being an electrical risk. It is recommended to hire a qualified professional to do the task.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation in double pane windows isn't only a problem it is a sign that the seals between the glass are failing. This allows moist air to get in which could cause damage to the gaskets, and when the condensation is very severe it could also cause jams or rot wooden window frames. This is typically solved by replacing the window new ones that have gaskets and seals.
It can be costly and not always feasible. Particularly if either or both of the panes are cracked or broken. There are alternatives to replacing the entire glass unit that can provide long-term double glazing repair solutions.
The first step is to clear the condensation by using an industrial defogging spray, like WD-40 Original for Windows. This product can be sprayed on both sides of the glass and will usually absorb all moisture within minutes. This should be done once a day at the very minimum, however you can repeat the process if you need to.
If the issue persists, it could be required to drill a couple of small holes into the exterior of the window, just below the bottom edge. When the sun shines on the outer glass, it warms up and if there's any condensation inside the window, it will flow towards the holes, and then be emitted through the holes as the air expands. This will usually clear the window, but it won't solve the problem in the first place.
Alternately, it is possible to utilize a hole-free technique however this won't perform as well and could run the risk of cracking or shattering the glass. A special adhesive is put into the cracks to prevent them from spreading further and this can be a viable long-term solution, however it's not as effective as a replacement unit equipped with complete sealing. It is best to employ a professional in both cases to ensure that the procedure is properly followed and to avoid any future issues with leaks or condensation.
Mist
If a mist appears on a window it is usually a sign that the seal on the window has failed. In some instances it can be fixed. However, in the majority of instances, it will require replacing the seal.
This is a problem that can occur in both new and old double glazed windows. It is usually caused by a large difference in temperature between the indoors and outdoor. This can cause condensation to form inside the glass when the cold air comes in contact with warm air. The condensation then dry on the glass's surface making 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 known as argon. This serves as a barrier between the warm and cold air. The space is also sprayed a silica formula that absorbs moisture between the glass panes. It is not unusual for these chemicals to wear out with time and this is the time when you'll start to see a build up of moisture in the window.
If the condensation is only on the inside of your double-glazed windows, it might be possible to repair them instead of replacing them. Repairing the problem will require the removal of your sealed unit from the frame. The panes will be separated from the spacer bars and then cleaning them thoroughly. The end result should be an uncluttered window and free of condensation. This is a great choice for those who want to save money but don't want to replace their windows.
If your glass is broken, extensive rot, or an unsound frame then it is likely that replacement will be required. If you are experiencing issues with the seal on your windows it could be possible to have your windows saved and upgraded to be more energy efficient. Contact an individual company in your area that is specialized in repairs to double-glazed windows and learn about the options you have for fixing your existing glazing.