How to Repair a Double Glazed Window
Double glazing is a good method to boost your home's energy efficiency and insulate it. However, it is susceptible to issues like condensation and draughts.
While replacement is the obvious answer to these issues but repairs are usually a cheaper alternative. Let's take a look at some of the most commonly used alternatives for double-glazed window repairs.
Broken Panes
The first step is to take off the broken pane. Wear a pair of thick gloves and put a box of cardboard nearby to catch any pieces of glass that fall during you work. Wear a mask and eye protection in case of lead in the frame. Utilize a utility knife to cut the glass surrounding the broken windowpane. Use pliers to remove any clips or nails that are securing the windowpane. After the glass is removed, scrape away any old putty and metal glazing points. A heat gun can be used to soften the putty if necessary.
After the old putty has been removed then re-grout the grooves, and apply the new silicone caulk using a silicone caulking gun. It's a good idea to examine the fit of the new window within its frame prior to applying the final caulking. Make sure the grooves are free of any rust, gunk or paint and that they aren't too narrow for the windowpane to fit in.
Replace the sash next with a wood molding to match the window frame. If the frame of the window is in poor condition it could be easier and more cost effective to replace the entire window unit instead of one pane.
In the past double pane windows comprised two pieces of glass separated by the help of a spacer. They were then filled with either air or an insulation gas. But in upvc window repair near me , manufacturers have shifted to the use of insulated glass units (IGs) which are more efficient in energy use and are resistant to seal failure. In windows with a failing IG the moisture from the outside seeps into the gap and condenses inside the glass. This process eventually damages the insulating properties of the IG and leaves a hazy residue on the glass.
A glass repair specialist can either replace the entire IG or only the damaged surface. It can be a lengthy and expensive process, but it's the only way to fix a defective seal allowing water into the home. Purchase high-quality windows from reliable manufacturer and having them installed by a skilled technician can prevent further problems with the seals.
Misted Panes
The window frame houses two or more panes of glass each separated by an air-filled space. The air, which is usually filled with argon to improve energy efficiency and to keep warm air inside, helps keep cold air out. However, windows with this feature may break and you may notice a hazy, smoky fog between the glass panes. It might seem like it's time to replace the window, but you aren't able to just replace the broken pane.
A misty window is usually a sign that the seal between two glass panes has failed. The condensation or mist indicates that moisture has gotten in, which damages 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.
If you notice condensation between the glass panes, it indicates that there is excessive moisture in your home. You must dehumidify and take other measures to improve the ventilation in rooms where this happens frequently. If the condensation is only visible on one side of the window or is visible between the glass panes It means there's an issue with the seal, and you'll need to get it repaired.
It is not possible to seal double-glazed windows to restore the energy efficiency of the original. When the seal fails the gap can allow cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape. This will damage your home's insulating ability and make it more costly to heat.
Some companies offer to drill holes in the panes of your window's exterior to remove the condensation. But it's only a temporary solution and will unlikely to last for more than six months. It is also not recommended that you try to do this yourself, as it could be extremely dangerous without the right tools and experience. A double-glazing specialist will use specific equipment to safely remove the condensation and install air vents that will ensure that there is no any future misting.
Frame Damage
Even with the best care double glazing can develop faults. Certain issues are minor and can easily be fixed. Others are more severe and require the replacement of the entire window. This is a decision that is made by the owner of the property, taking into account the benefits they receive from their double glazing and the value it will bring to their home.
If you experience difficulty opening and closing your windows it could be due to misting or an issue with the frame. If this is the case you need to have your windows repaired as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your double glazing and to prevent water entering the gap between the insulated and uninsulated.
The frames of your double-glazed windows are designed to hold the glass panes in their place and stop them from moving, however as time passes, the particular packaging that aids in this may wear down. This can cause the glass sheets to move, which could break the seal and lead to misting. Mist can also form in the space between the panes that is insulating and the glass, indicating that the seal is broken and it's now time for double glazing repairs.
Another issue that is common is that windows have begun to shrink over time and make it difficult to open and close them. This can be fixed by adjusting the mechanisms and hinges. It is worth remembering that a lot of new double glazed windows are covered by a guarantee and in this case it is best to contact the company from which you purchased your double glazing for information regarding what to do.
Repairing double-glazed windows is possible yourself, but it's usually better to talk to an expert to benefit from their experience and expertise. Professionals can diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently and perform the necessary repairs to double glazing. You can also avoid voiding the warranty by not trying to fix your windows without proper expertise.
Weather Damage
Double pane windows are immune to weather damage. However should you live in a place where you are susceptible to ice storms, hail, high wind and torrential rainfall your window frames and sealings can be seriously damaged. It is important to check your windows on a regular basis and repair any scratches or chips as soon as they are discovered.
Blown windows can be one of the most significant issues you could face with double glazing. When a gap appears between the two panes of glass air and moisture could get into your home. This is typically an indication of damage to the seals or an issue with the insulation material between the panes.
Condensation between the panes is another issue that double-glazed windows may cause. This is caused by the warm air inside your home being warmer than the cooler air outside. The difference in temperatures forces the warmer air to expand, which can cause the window's seals to break or weaken over time.
Foggy windows are an issue that is common to double-glazed windows. This is a problem that can be fixed without replacing the IGU. This is an indication that your window panes' seals need to be resealed.
To do this, you will have to make into the windowspanes. You will have to drill a hole big enough to accommodate pipe cleaners or a long object, with fabric at the end. The cloth end is used to wipe your windows down and remove any condensate that is left. This will help create an airtight seal and stop any further fogging of your double glazed windows.
It's important to keep in mind that this is temporary solution for your windows that are foggy. When it rains or there is an abrupt increase in humidity the condensation will recur. If you're looking for a permanent solution you'll need to replace your old IGU.