Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double-glazing windows are an excellent option to reduce energy consumption. They can be damaged over time. Fortunately, they can be repaired easily.
A problem with the seal can be detected by foggy glass, condensation inside the panes, or mist. A professional is able to fix this problem without having to replace the entire window.
Broken Panes
A stray ball, a rocks thrown at the ground, or even the force of a powerful wind can cause a crack in the double pane of a window. If this happens, it is difficult to determine if the entire window should be replaced or if the insulation benefits of this type glass can be restored by a simple repair.
Luckily, repairing a broken glass pane in a double-glazed window is not as complicated as it might seem. You can do it yourself if have the right tools and know how to make use of them. With the right tools, you will avoid further damage to your windows. Additionally, you will be able to avoid any injuries caused by working with glass that is sharp.
The first step is to take the old sealant from the broken glass. You can do this by hand provided you have gloves that are protected and a method to dispose of the waste at hand. Make use of a multi-purpose tool, or deglazing knife to do the job. After you've removed the sealant lift the broken pane and place it somewhere safe to be stored for the interim.
The next step is to prepare the frame for the replacement pane. Make use of a utility knife scrape off any caulking and paint on the rabbets (the grooves in the sash where the glass is placed). You can then apply a paint stripper or sandpaper, to expose the naked wood. Apply an exterior primer to the exposed area.
After the rabbets have been prepared and shaped, you can apply putty to the rabbets in preparation for reinstalling the new glass pane. The putty needs to be soft and warm enough that it can be used in the rabbets. It is crucial to evenly press across the entire surface to ensure that there aren't any gaps.
After the putty has set, you can reinstall wooden stops and silicone around the edges of your double pane window to make sure it is as secure as it can be. Replace the weather stripping that is at the bottom of the frames to increase airflow and prevent water from entering your home. This will also help reduce your energy consumption.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows could be a sign of a broken seal, allowing drafts or moisture to enter the space. This is more common in wet and humid environments where wooden frames could be damaged if exposed to excessive amounts of condensation and water. If this is the situation, a replacement window might be required but it's generally more cost-effective to address the issue using the glass unit that is already in place.
This can be accomplished by drilling small holes on the inside of the frame with a carbide-tipped drill bit to ensure that glass is not broken panes. Then, you can use the dehumidifier as well as a cleaning solution to eliminate the accumulated moisture between the two panes of glass. If you're trying to accomplish this, be sure not to pick a day when the sun is hot or extremely cold. This will put too much stress on the glass, and could cause it to shatter. It's also an excellent idea to wear safety glasses and gloves as you'll be working with extremely sharp tools close to the glass.
After the fog has gone, you can attach a small spray tube to one of your holes and use it to clean the glass. After the window has dried you can put a caulk around both the hole and the glass's edge to protect it from the elements.
You may be able repair the leaky seals yourself if you are an expert in DIY. However, this can be a risky job and you'll need to check the condition of the plug when it is placed into the gap. Even if the problem is resolved but it's likely to come back within six months, as moisture will re-infiltrate the gap. This can cause draughts, electrical hazards, and condensation in the home. It is recommended to hire a qualified professional to do the task.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation on double paned windows is more than just an inconvenience. It is a sign that the seals aren't working. This allows moist air to move in, which can cause damage to the gaskets, and if the condensation is severe it could also cause jams or cause rot to wooden frames. window glazier near me to address this issue is to replace the window by a new window with proper gaskets and seals.
However, the cost of doing this is high and it is not always possible, especially in the event that one or both the panes have broken or cracked. There are alternatives to replacing the entire glass that provide long-term double glazing repair solutions.
The first step is to try to eliminate the condensation using an industrial defogging spray, such as WD-40 Original for Windows. This spray can be spray on both sides of the glass and will usually absorb all moisture within minutes. This should be done at least once every day at minimum, however you can repeat it if necessary.
If the issue persists, it may be required to make a couple of tiny holes on the outside of the window, just below the bottom edge. The sun will warm the outer glass, and any condensation in the window will be pushed towards the holes. As the air expands, it will vent out of the holes. This will normally clear the window of condensation, but because it has not solved the issue in the beginning it could be an ongoing issue.
It is also possible to employ an alternative that does not require holes, but it isn't as effective and may crack or shatter the glass. Basically, a special adhesive is inserted into the cracks to prevent them from expanding further. This can be a good long-term solution, however it's not as effective as a replacement unit that has complete sealing. It is recommended to hire an expert to ensure the process is done correctly and to avoid any future issues with leaks or condensation.
Mist
If mist appears on windows this is usually an indication that the seal has failed. In certain cases it can be fixed. However, in the majority of cases, it will need to replace the seal.
This issue can be found in both new and old double-glazed windows. It is typically caused by the large temperature difference between the indoors and outdoors. This can cause condensation to build up in 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.
Modern double glazing is made by filling the gap between the glass panes with the gas argon. This creates a powerful barrier between cold and warm air. The window is also sprayed an silica formulation that is that absorbs moisture between the glass panes. It is not uncommon for these chemicals to break down over time though and that is when you'll begin to notice an accumulation of moisture in the window.
If the condensation is confined on the inside of your double-glazed windows then it may be possible to fix them instead of replacing them. The repair involves taking your sealed unit out of the frame. The panes will be separated from the spacer bars and cleaning them thoroughly. The final result is an uncluttered window and free of condensation. This is a great option for those looking to save money but don't want to replace their windows.
It is obvious that if you have broken panes, extensive decay or a frame that has lost its strength, then replacement is required. However, if you have an issue with the window seal, it might be possible to save your windows and make them more energy efficient again. Contact an individual company in your area that is specialized in double-glazed window repairs and find out what alternatives you have to fix the current glass.