How to Repair a Double Glazed Window
Double glazing is an effective method to increase the insulation of your home and increase its energy efficiency. It could cause problems like condensation and draughts.
While replacement is the obvious solution to these issues however, repairs are often a much more affordable alternative. Let's take a look at some of the most popular solutions for double-glazed window repairs:
Broken Panes
The first step is removing the broken pane. Wear thick work gloves, and place a box of cardboard nearby to collect any fragments of glass that fall while you work. Make use of a utility knife cut the glazing around the broken windowpane, making sure to wear a mask and eye protection due to potential lead in the frame. Utilize pliers to remove any clips or nails that are holding the windowpane. Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old putty and glazing points. If needed, a heat gun can be used to soften the putty.
After the old putty has been removed after which you can re-grout the grooves, and then apply silicone caulk with a silicone caulking tool. Before applying the final caulking it's a good idea to check the fit of the new window into its frame. Make sure the grooves are clean of any rust, gunk or paint, and aren't too narrow for the windowpane to sit in.
Next you should replace the sash with the same wood molding as the window frame. If the frame has begun to deteriorate, it is easier and more cost-effective to replace the entire unit instead of just one pane.
In the past double pane windows comprised two pieces of glass, separated by an air spacer. They were then filled with air or an gas used to insulate. In recent years, manufacturers have shifted to the use of insulated glass units (IGs) that are more efficient in energy use and are resistant to seal failure. In windows that have failed IG moisture from the air outside seeps through the gap and condenses inside the glass. This process eventually degrades the properties of insulation and leaves a film of haze on the glass.
A glass repair specialist can either replace the entire IG or replace just the damaged surface. This procedure can be costly and time-consuming, however it is the only solution to fix the seal that is defective and allows water to enter the home. Selecting high-quality windows from a reliable manufacturer and having them installed by an experienced technician can help prevent future issues 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 gas for more energy efficiency, aids to keep warm air in and cold air out. Unfortunately, sometimes these windows begin to crack and you'll notice a cloud of haze growing between the panes of the glass. You may 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 most cases, a misted window indicates that there is an issue with the seal between the two panes of glass. The condensation or mist suggests that moisture has entered and is causing damage to the insulation of the double glazing. It is important to maintain your windows and keep them clean.
Condensation that forms between the panes your windows is a sign that there's a high level of humidity in your home It's therefore essential to dehumidify the area and take other measures to increase ventilation in the rooms where this happens often. However, if the condensation is only on one side of the window or is visible between the glass panes, it means that there is a problem with the seal and you'll need to fix it.
There is no such thing as resealing windows that have double glazing to bring back its energy efficiency. When the seal breaks, the gap allows cold air into your home, and warm air to escape. This will reduce the insulating power of your home which will make it more expensive to heat.
Some companies provide a service in which they drill holes into the outside of your window and then drain out the condensation, but this is a temporary solution and won't last more than six months. It is also not recommended that you try to do this yourself, since it can be very 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 help prevent the possibility of misting in the future.
Frame Fragment Damage
Even with the best care double glazing can develop defects. Some are minor and can be corrected, while others are more serious and need to be replaced entirely. This is a decision that should be taken by the owner of the property, taking into account the benefits they get from their double glazing and the value it adds 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. If this is the case, you must have your windows fixed as quickly as possible to prevent further damage to your double glazing and to stop water from entering the gap between the insulated and uninsulated.
As time passes, the plastic that holds the glass sheets in their frames and stops them from moving could get worn out. This could cause the glass sheets to move, which could rupture the seal and cause misting. Mist can also form in the gap that is used to insulate between the panes, again indicating that the seal is broken and it's time to make double glazing repairs.
Another common issue is that the windows are beginning to shrink over time which makes it difficult to open and close them. This is typically repaired by adjusting the hinges or mechanisms. Keep in mind that double-glazed windows come with an insurance policy. In this case you should contact the company from which you bought your double glazing to find out what to do.
Double-glazed windows can be repaired yourself, but it's better to talk to an expert to benefit from their expertise and experience. Professionals can determine the problem and provide the appropriate double glazing repairs quickly and efficiently. You can also avoid voiding your warranty by not attempting to repair your windows without the proper knowledge.
Weather Damage
While you might think of double pane windows as resistant to weather damage but if you live in an area that is susceptible to hail storms, ice storms high winds, torrential rains windows, their frames and seals could take some serious damage. The best way to ensure your windows stay in good shape is to inspect them regularly and fix minor dents and chips when you detect them.
Blown windows are one of the most serious problems that you could face with your double glazing. When a gap appears between the two panes of glass, moisture and air can seep into your home. This is typically a sign of deterioration, or a problem in the insulation material that is used to separate your panes.
Another problem that many homeowners encounter with double-glazed windows is condensation that forms between the panes. This occurs when the warm air inside your home is warmer than the outside air. The difference in temperature causes the warmer air to expand, which can cause the window's seals to break or weaken over time.
Foggy windows are a common problem with double-glazed windows. This is a problem that can be solved without replacing the IGU. This is an indication that your window panes' seals need to be resealed.
You will need to drill an opening between the window panes. This needs to be big enough to allow for the installation of a long pipe cleaner or any other long object local window repair that has fabric on the other end. You will then need to use the cloth end to clean your windows and remove any excess condensation. This will help create a tighter seal and prevent any further fogging.
It is important to remember that this is an interim solution to your windows that are foggy. Condensation will return as soon as it rains, or if there is an increase in humidity. If you are looking for a long-term solution, you'll have to replace your IGU with a fresh one.