The Most Common Double Glazed Window Repair Debate It's Not As Black Or White As You Think
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Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing windows are a fantastic option to save energy. However, they could be damaged over time. Luckily, they're easy to repair.
Foggy glass, condensation between the panes, and mist are all indications of problems with the seal. A professional is able to resolve this issue without needing to replace the entire window.
Broken Panes
A baseball, a rock thrown or even a fierce breeze can crack the double-pane windows. When this happens, it is difficult to determine if the entire window has to be replaced or the insulation benefits of this type glass can be restored with a simple repair.
Repairing a broken glass pane in a double-glazed window isn't as complicated as it may seem. You can repair it yourself if you have the right tools and know how to make use of them. Using the correct tools will ensure that you are not causing any further damage to the windows you already have. You are also able to avoid injuries by handling sharp glass.
The first step is to take the old sealant from the broken glass. This can be done by hand, so long that you wear gloves and have a means of waste disposal close at fingertips. Make use of a multi-purpose tool or a deglazing knife for the job. After you have removed the sealant from the window, carefully remove the broken glass and store it in a secure place.
The next step is to prepare the frame. Use a utility knife to scrape off any caulking and paint from the rabbets (the grooves in the sash where the glass is placed). The bare wood can be exposed using a paint remover or sandpaper. Apply an exterior primer to the exposed area.
Once the rabbets are prepared, you can apply putty to them to prepare them for reinstalling the glass pane. The putty should be warm and malleable, so that it can be pressed into the rabbets. It is crucial to apply pressure evenly over the entire surface, ensuring that there aren't any gaps.
Once 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 you can. It is also recommended to replace the weather stripping along the bottom of your frames to increase the air flow and prevent water from getting into your home. This will also lower the cost of energy.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows can be a sign of a broken seal, allowing drafts or moisture to enter the space. This is most common in humid and wet climates where wooden frames could get rotten when exposed to too much condensation and moisture. If this is the case, a replacement window may be needed however it's usually more cost-effective to address the issue using the existing glass unit.
To avoid breaking the glass, drill small holes inside the frame with a carbide-tipped drill. The moisture trapped inside can be removed using dehumidifiers, or a cleaning agent. It's important to avoid doing this on a day that's extremely hot or cold. This could cause the glass to break. Wear safety glasses and gloves because you'll be working with sharp tools near the glass.
Once the fog has gone, you can add a small spray tube to one of your holes and use it to wash the glass. After the window has dried you can put a caulk around both the hole and the edge of the glass to protect it from the elements.
Depending on your level of proficient in DIY, you might decide to attempt to fix the leaky seals yourself rather than calling a professional. This can be a dangerous task, and you'll have to be aware of the condition of any plugs installed into the gap. Even if the issue is resolved but it's likely to come back within six months as moisture will creep back into the gap. This can cause condensation and draughts within the house as well as being an electrical risk. This is why it's normally best to employ a licensed tradesperson to carry out the work.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation in double pane windows is more than only a problem it's a sign that the seals between the glass and the frame are deteriorating. This allows moist air to move in and damage the gaskets and if the condensation is severe, can also jam or rot wooden window frames. This is typically repaired by replacing the window with a new one that has gaskets and seals.
It can be costly and not always feasible. Especially if one or both panes are cracked or broken. There are alternatives to replacing the entire unit of glass that can provide long-term double glazing repair solutions.
First, try to clear any condensation with a commercial defogging product like WD-40 Original For Windows. This product can be used on both sides of glass and will soak up moisture in just a few minutes. This should be done once every day at least, but you can repeat it if needed.
If the problem persists then it could be necessary to make a couple of tiny holes on the outside of the window, just below the bottom edge. The sun will heat the outside glass and any condensation inside the window will be pushed towards the holes. As the air expands, it will escape through the holes. This is usually enough to clear the window, but it won't solve the original problem.
It is also possible to employ a method that does not require holes, however it isn't as efficient and could break or shatter the glass. In essence, a special glue is put into the cracks to stop them from spreading further. This could be a viable long-term solution, however it's not as efficient as a replacement unit that has an entire seal. In both instances it is recommended to have the work completed by a professional to ensure that the process is followed properly and to avoid issues that could arise from future condensation or leaks.
Mist
When a layer of mist appears on a window, it's generally an indication that the seal of the window has failed. In some cases it is possible to repair the issue. However, in the majority instances, it will require replacing the seal.
This issue can be seen in both new and old double-glazed windows. It is usually caused by a large difference in temperature between indoors and outdoors. This can cause water to build up inside the glass when the repair to double glazed windows cold air comes in contact with warm air. The condensation dries on the glass's surface creating fog or mist.
Modern double glazing works by filling the gap between the glass panes with the gas argon. This serves as a barrier between the cold and warm air. The space is also sprayed with a special silica formula that has been designed to absorb moisture between the panes of glass. These chemicals will wear out with time and you might see moisture build up 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 them involves removing the sealed unit from the frame, splitting the panes apart from the spacer bars, cleaning each one thoroughly before replacing the desiccant. The result should be a clean window with no condensation on the inside. This is a great choice for those looking to save money but don't want replace their windows.
If you have glass that has broken or extensive rot, as well as an unsound frame It is evident that replacement will be required. However, if you have an issue with the window seal, it could be possible to save your windows and make them much more energy efficient again. Find a local company that specialises in double glazed window repairs to determine what options you have to consider for fixing your current glazing.