Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing windows are an excellent option for saving energy. However, they can become damaged over time. Luckily, they're simple to fix.
A leaky seal can be detected by foggy glass, condensation between the panes, and mist. The good part is that a professional can typically solve this issue without having to replace the entire window.
Broken Panes
A rock, a baseball thrown or even a strong wind can cause cracks in the double-pane window. And, when this happens, it may be difficult to know if the entire window should be repaired or if it can be salvaged the insulation benefits that this type of glass is famous for.
Repairing a broken glass pane of a double-glazed window doesn't have to be as difficult as it may seem. If you have the proper tools and know how to use them, you can do this yourself. With the right tools, you will be able to avoid further damage to your windows. You can also avoid injuries from working with sharp glass.
The first step is to get rid of the old sealant that was glued to the broken glass. This can be done by hand, as long as you wear protective gloves and have a means of waste disposal close at the ready. You can make use of a multi-purpose knife or deglazing tools to complete the task. Once you have removed the sealant lift the damaged pane and place it in a safe place to store it for a while.
The next step is to prepare the frame. Make use of a utility knife to scrape away any old caulking or paint from the rabbets. The wood that is bare is easily exposed with a paint remover or sandpaper. Apply an exterior primer to the exposed area.
After the rabbets have been prepared and shaped, you can apply putty on them in preparation to reinstall the glass pane. The putty should be soft and warm so that it can be put into the rabbets. It is crucial to press evenly across the entire surface to ensure that there aren't any gaps.
After the putty has set, you can put back in the wooden stops, and then seal the edges to ensure double pane windows are as tight as they can be. You should also replace the weather stripping at the bottom of your frames to improve the air flow and prevent water from entering the home. This will also reduce your energy consumption.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows are an indication of a damaged seal, allowing drafts or moisture to enter the space. This is especially prevalent in wet and humid climates where the wooden frames could be damaged if exposed to excessive amounts of condensation and water. If this is the case, a replacement window may be needed however it's usually more cost-effective to fix the issue using the current glass unit.
To prevent breaking the glass to avoid breaking it, make small holes in the frame using a carbide-tipped bit. Then, you can use a dehumidifier or a cleaning solution to eliminate the moisture that has been trapped between the two glass panes. When you're trying to do 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 gloves and goggles as you will be working with sharp tools near the glass.
Once the fog has gone, you can add a small spray tube to one of the holes and use it to scrub the glass. Once the window is dry and clean, you can use caulk to seal the hole and the glass edge.
Based on how proficient in DIY, you might be tempted to repair the leaky seals yourself, rather than call in an expert. This is a risky job, and you'll need to monitor the condition of any plugs placed into the gap. If you're successful, the chances are that the problem will return in about six months, or so, as the moisture continues to creep back into the gap. This could lead to condensation and draughts in the home, as well as being an electrical hazard. This is the reason it's better to find a qualified tradesperson to carry out the work.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation in double pane windows isn't only a problem it's a sign that the seals between the glass are failing. This allows moisture to get in, which can damage gaskets and, if the condensation becomes severe, it could also cause wood rot or jamming window frames. The most common method to remedy this is to have the window replaced by a new window that is fitted with the proper gaskets and seals.
However, the expense of doing this can be high and it is not always feasible, especially in the event that one or both the panes have broken or cracked. There are options to replace the entire unit of glass that can provide long-term double glazing repair solutions.
The first step is to try to eliminate the condensation using a commercial defogging spray like WD-40 Original for Windows. This spray can be used on both sides of glass and absorb moisture in a matter of minutes. This should be done once every day at least, but you can repeat it if needed.
If the problem persists the issue is not resolved, it might be necessary to make two small holes below the lower edge of the window. The sun will warm the outer glass, and any condensation in the window will flow towards the holes. As the air expands, it will vent out of the holes. This is usually enough to clear the window of condensation but because it has not dealt with what caused the problem in the first place it could be a continuing issue.
It is also possible to employ a hole-free approach however this won't perform as well and carries the possibility of breaking or shattering the glass. Basically, a special adhesive is put into the cracks to stop them expanding further. This can be a good long-term solution, however it's not as effective as a replacement unit with complete sealing. It is best to hire an expert in both instances to ensure the process is properly followed and to avoid problems with condensation or leaks.
Mist
If you notice a misty appearance on windows, it is usually an indication that the seal has failed. In window glaziers is possible to repair the issue. However, in most cases, it will need to replace the seal.
This problem can occur with both old and new double-glazed windows. It usually occurs due to the large temperature difference between the indoors and outdoor. When cold air is pushed against the warm air, condensation can build up inside the window. The condensation then sets on the glass's surface creating fog or mist.
The way this is avoided by modern double glazing is that the space between the panes is filled with a gas known as argon. This gas acts as a barrier between cold and warm air. The space is also sprayed with a special formula of silica which is designed to absorb moisture between panes of glass. It is not uncommon for these chemicals to wear out in time, and that is when you'll begin to notice the accumulation of moisture in the windows.
If the condensation is only on the inside of your double-glazed windows then it may be possible to fix the windows instead of replacing them. The process of repair involves taking the sealed unit out of the frame, splitting the panes apart from the spacer bars, cleaning each one thoroughly and replacing the desiccant. The end result will be a clear window with no condensation on the inside. This is an excellent option for those who want to save money but don't want to replace their existing windows.
If you have broken glass, extensive rot, or an unsound frame, then it is obvious that replacement will be required. If you're having issues with the seal on your windows it is possible for your windows to be saved and upgraded to be more energy efficient. Contact a local company that specialises in double glazed window repairs to determine what your options are for fixing your current glazing.