How to Repair a Double Glazed Window
Double glazing is a cost effective way to increase the insulation of your home and increase its energy efficiency. It could cause problems like condensation and draughts.
While replacement is the most obvious solution to these issues, repairs are often a more affordable alternative. Let's explore some of the most commonly used double-glazed window repair options:
Broken Panes
The first step is to remove the broken pane from the frame. Wear gloves that are thick, and place an empty cardboard box nearby to catch any pieces of glass that fall as you work. Use a utility knife to cut the glass around the broken windowpane and ensure that you wear a mask and eye protection because of the possibility of lead entering the frame. If clips or nails are securing the windowpane the frame, you can use pliers to pull them out. After the glass is removed, remove any old putty and glazing points. A heat gun can be used to soften the putty, if needed.
Once the old putty is removed, re-grout the grooves and apply a new caulk using a silicone caulking gun. Before applying the final caulking, it's a great idea to check the fit of the new window into its frame. Make sure the grooves in the frame are free of rust, paint, or gunk and are not too narrow to fit the window.
Replace the sash after that by a wooden molding to match the window frame. If the window frame has become damaged it is much easier and more economical to replace the entire unit than just a single pane.
In upvc window repair near me , double-pane windows were just two pieces of glass separated by a spacer and then filled with gas or air that acted as an insulator. In recent years, manufacturers switched to insulated-glass units (IGs), which are more energy efficient and resistant to seal failure. In a double-pane glass with a damaged IG water from the environmental air seeps into the gap and then condenses on the inside of the glass. This cycle eventually breaks the insulating properties that are present in the IG and leaves an unclean substance on the glass.
A glass repair specialist could replace the entire IG or only the damaged surface. This procedure can be costly and time consuming, but is the only way to fix a defective seal that allows water to leak into the home. Purchasing high-quality windows from a reliable manufacturer and having them installed by a trained technician will help avoid future issues with the seals.
Misty Panes
The window frame holds two or more panes of glass that are separated by an air-filled space. The air, often filled with argon gas for better energy efficiency, helps to keep warm air inside and cold air outside. Unfortunately, windows can start to fail and you'll see a hazy cloud growing between the panes of the glass. You might think it's time to replace the entire window however, it's not as easy as just removing the broken pane and replacing it.
In the majority of instances, a stained window indicates that there is a problem with the seal between the two panes of glass. The mist or condensation indicates that moisture has entered and damaged the insulation of the double glazing. This is the reason it's crucial to pay attention to the maintenance of your windows and keep them clean.
If you see condensation between the glass panes it means that there is a lot of moisture in your home. You should dehumidify and take other steps to increase the airflow in rooms where this occurs often. If the condensation is only on one side of the window or is visible between the glass's panes, it means that there is an issue with the seal and you'll have to get it repaired.
It is not possible to seal double-glazed windows to bring back the original energy efficiency. When the seal breaks the gap opens up cold air to enter your home, and warm air out. This can reduce the insulation power of your house which will make it more expensive to heat.
Some companies provide a service in which they drill holes in the outside of your window to drain out the condensation, but this is only a short-term solution that is unlikely to last for more than six months. You should not attempt to do this yourself because it can be extremely risky if you don't have the proper tools or know-how. Double-glazing professionals will employ specialist equipment to safely remove the condensation and install new air vents, which will help keep from the possibility of misting in the future.
Frame Damage
Even with the best of care, double glazing can develop faults. Some issues are minor and can be fixed. Other issues are more serious and will require an entire replacement. This is a decision that is taken by the owner of the property, taking into consideration the benefits they get from their double glazing and the value it can bring to their home.
If you're having difficulty opening or closing your windows, it could be due to misting on your glass or a problem with the frame. Repair your windows as quickly as you can to prevent further damage to the double glazing.
Over time, the packaging that holds the glass sheets in their frames and prevents them from moving can wear out. This can cause one or both of the glass sheets to move a bit and break the seal and causes misting. The space between the panes may also cause misting, which indicates that there's a problem with the seal.
Another common issue is that windows are beginning to shrink over time and make it difficult to open and close them. This is usually repaired by altering the hinges or mechanisms. Keep in mind that double-glazed windows are covered under a warranty. In this instance you should call the company from where you bought your double glazing to find out what to do.
It is possible to repair your own double-glazed windows, however it is usually better to talk to a professional and make use of their knowledge and expertise. Professionals will be able to identify the issue and offer the correct double glazing repairs quickly and effectively. This will also help you to avoid voiding your warranty, because attempting to fix the windows yourself without proper knowledge can invalidate it.
Weather Damage
Although you may think of double pane windows as immune to weather damage but if you live in an area susceptible to hail, ice storms high winds, and torrential rains windows, their frames and seals are prone to some serious damage. The best way to ensure that your windows stay in good shape is to check them regularly and fix minor dents and chips as soon as you detect them.
Blown windows are one of the most serious issues you may encounter when you install double glazing. They occur when a gap forms between the two glass panes which causes moisture and air to seep into your home. This is usually an indication of deterioration in the seals or a problem with the insulation material between the panes.
Condensation between the panes is yet another issue that double-glazed windows could cause. This is caused by the warm air inside your home being warmer than the cooler air outside. The warmer air expands due the difference in temperature which can cause window seals to weaken or break over time.
Foggy windows are also a common issue with double-glazed windows. This is a common problem that can be solved without replacing the IGU. This is a sign that your window's seals require resealing.
You'll need to drill an opening between the window panes. You will have to drill a hole big enough to insert a pipe cleaner or another long object with cloth at the end. Then, you'll need to use the cloth to clean your windows and eliminate any condensation that is not removed. This will help to create a tight seal again and prevent any future fogging of your double-glazed windows.
This is only temporary solution for windows that are hazy. Condensation will occur again as soon as it rains or there is an increase in humidity. If you are looking for a long-term solution, you will need to replace your IGU with a new one.