How to Repair a Double Glazed Window
Double glazing is a great method to boost your home's energy efficiency as well as protect it. But it can be prone to faults like condensation and drafts.
Repairs are typically more cost-effective than replacement. Let's take a look at some of the most common options for double-glazed window repairs.
Broken Panes
The first step is to remove the broken pane. Wear thick work gloves and place a cardboard box close by to catch any glass shards that fall as you work. Wear a mask and eye protection due to the possibility of lead in the frame. Use a utility blade to cut through the glass around the broken windowpane. Utilize pliers to remove any clips or nails that are securing the windowpane. Scrape off any old putty or glazing points after the glass is removed. If necessary, a heat gun can be used to soften the putty.
Once the old putty has been removed, re-grout the grooves and apply the new silicone caulk using a silicone gun. It's a good idea test the fit of the new window inside its frame before applying the final caulking. Make sure that the grooves are clean of any gunk, rust or paint and that they aren't too narrow for the window to sit in.
Replace the sash next with a wood molding to match the frame. If the frame of the window is in poor condition, it may be easier and cost-effective to replace the whole window unit instead of just a single pane.
In the past windows with double panes were constructed of two pieces of glass that were separated with the help of a spacer. They were then filled with air or an insulation gas. In recent years, manufacturers have shifted to insulated glass units (IGs) which are more energy efficient and resistant to seal failure. In windows with a failing IG moisture from the air outside seeps through the gap and condenses inside the glass. This process eventually destroys the insulating properties that are present in the IG and leaves an unclean remnant on the glass.
To fix a damaged IG glass, the glass repair expert can replace the entire unit or can replace just the broken surface of the glass. 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. Installing high-quality windows by a technician who has the experience and purchasing windows from a reputable manufacturer can help avoid any future problems with seals.
Misted Panes
The window's frame holds two or three panes separated by air-filled spaces. The air, usually filled with argon gas for more energy efficiency, aids to keep warm air inside and cold air out. However, in some cases, these windows start to break down and you'll notice a cloud of haze growing between the panes of glass. It might seem like it's time to replace the window, but you aren't able to simply replace the broken one.
In most instances, a window that is misty suggests a problem with the seal between the two panes of glass. The condensation or mist suggests that moisture has penetrated and damaged the insulation of the double glazing. This is the reason it's crucial to pay attention to the care of your windows and keep them clean.
Condensation that repair windows forms between the panes your windows is a sign that there's a lot of humidity in the house Therefore, it's essential to dehumidify the area and take other measures to increase the airflow in areas where this happens often. If the condensation is visible on one side of your window or between the panes, then you'll require having the seal replaced.
There is no such thing as resealing a double-glazed window to bring back its energy efficiency. When the seal breaks the gap opens up cold air into your home, and warm air to escape. This can reduce the insulation capacity of your home and will cost you more to heat.
Some companies provide a service in which they drill holes in the exterior of your window to drain out the condensation, however this is only a short-term solution and is unlikely to last more than six months. You should not attempt to do this yourself because it can be extremely dangerous if you do not have the proper tools or experience. Double-glazing professionals will employ special equipment to safely remove the condensation and install new air vents that should help to prevent any future misting.
Frame Damage
Even with the best of care double glazing can develop problems. Certain issues are minor and can easily be fixed. Some are more serious and require the replacement of the entire window. The owner of the home should take this decision by taking into account the benefits of double glazing as well as the value that it adds to the property.
If you experience difficulty opening and closing your windows, it could be due to misting or an issue with the frame. You should repair your windows as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the double glazing.
The frames of your double glazed windows are designed to hold the glass panes in their place and stop them from shifting, but with time, the special packaging that helps this happens may wear down. This could cause the glass sheets to move, which could cause the seal to break and cause misting. The insulating space between the panes may also mist up, indicating that there is a breach in the seal.
A common issue is that windows have sagged with time and are difficult to open or close. This can be fixed by altering the mechanisms and hinges. It is worth remembering that many brand new double-glazed windows come with a guarantee and in this instance it would be an ideal idea to contact the company from whom you bought your double glazing to get details on what you can do next.
Double-glazed windows can be repaired yourself, but it's usually better to consult with an expert for their experience and expertise. Professionals will be able to determine the problem and provide the correct double glazing repairs quickly and effectively. You can also avoid voiding your warranty by not attempting to repair your windows without the proper skills.
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, ice storms high winds, and torrential rains windows and seals are prone to some serious damage. It is important to check your windows regularly and repair any small damage or scratches when they are discovered.
Blown windows can be one of the most significant issues that you might encounter when you have double glazing. They happen when a gap forms between the two glass panes which causes moisture and air to get into your home. This is usually an indication of damage to the seals or an issue with the insulating material that is between the panes.
Condensation between the panes is a different problem that double-glazed windows can cause. This occurs when the warm air inside your home is warmer than outside air. The warmer air expands due to the difference in temperature, which can cause window seals to become weak or break over time.
Foggy windows are also a common problem with double-glazed windows. This is a problem that can be solved without replacing the IGU. This is usually an indication that the seals between the window's panes require resealing.
You'll need to make an opening between the window panes. The hole should be large enough to allow for the installation of an extended pipe cleaner or other long object with cloth at the other end. Then, you'll need to use the cloth to clean your windows and remove any excess condensation. This will help to create a tight seal again and will prevent any future fogging of your double glazed windows.
This is only a temporary fix for foggy windows. If it rains or there is an abrupt increase in humidity it will be back to normal. If you're looking for a permanent solution you'll have to replace the old IGU.