12 Companies That Are Leading The Way In Double Glazed Window Repair
Wiki Article
Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing windows are an excellent alternative to conserve energy. However, they can be damaged as time passes. Fortunately they can be repaired easily.
A problem with the seal can be identified by foggy glass, condensation inside the panes, or mist. The good part is that a professional will usually fix this without replacing the entire window.
Broken Panes
A rock, a baseball thrown or even a strong breeze can break the double-pane window. And, when this happens, it can be difficult to determine if the entire window needs to be repaired or if it could be salvaged from the insulation benefits this type of glass is renowned for.
Luckily, repairing a broken glass pane in a double glazed window isn't as difficult as it appears. If you have the right tools and know how to use it you can repair it yourself. Using the correct tools will ensure that you're not causing further damage to your windows. You can also avoid injuries from working with sharp glass.
The first step is to take the old sealant that was sat on the broken glass. You can do this by hand so long as you've got gloves to protect yourself and a method to dispose of the waste at hand. You can use a multipurpose knife or deglazing tool to complete the task. After you have removed the sealant remove the damaged pane and put it in a safe place for interim storage.
The next step is to prepare the frame to accommodate the replacement pane. Use an utility knife to scrape away any caulking or paint from the rabbets. You can then apply a paint stripper or sandpaper to expose naked wood. Apply an exterior primer to the exposed area.
You can then apply putty on the rabbets to prepare for the installation of the glass. The putty must be soft and warm so that it can be applied to the rabbets. It is important to apply pressure evenly over the entire surface, ensuring that there are no gaps.
After the putty is set, you can reinstall wooden stops and silicone around the edges of your double pane window to make sure it is as tight as it can be. Replace the weather stripping that is at the bottom of the frames to increase airflow and prevent water from entering your home. This will also help reduce the cost of energy.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows could be an indication of a weak seal, allowing drafts or moisture to get into the gap. It is common in humid and wet climates, where wooden frames can get rotten when exposed to too much condensation and moisture. In this case you may have to replace the window, but it is generally more cost-effective when the glass can be repaired.
To prevent breaking the glass to avoid breaking it, make small holes in the frame using a carbide-tipped bit. You can then use a dehumidifier or a cleaning solution to remove the trapped moisture from between the two glass panes. It is essential to avoid doing this during a time that is extremely cold or hot. This puts too much pressure on the glass and could cause it to shatter. It's also an excellent idea to wear safety gloves and gloves as you'll be working with very sharp tools close to the glass.
Once the fog has gone, you can apply a small spray tube to one of the holes and use it to clean the glass. Once the window is dry and clean, you can use caulk to close the hole and seal the glass edge.
You might be able to fix the leaky seals by yourself if you're an expert in DIY. This can be a dangerous job, and you will be required to keep track of the condition of any plugs placed into the gap. If you're successful, the chances are that the issue will come back in six months or so as new moisture creeps back into the gap. This can lead to draughts electrical hazards and condensation within the home. This is why it's normally recommended to hire a certified tradesperson to do the work.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation on double paned windows is more than just an issue. It is a sign that the seals are failing. This allows moist air to move in, which can damage the gaskets and when the condensation is very severe, can also jam or cause rot to wooden frames. The most popular way to address this issue is to have the window replaced with a new unit that has proper gaskets and seals.
It can be costly and is not always feasible. Particularly in the event that either or both of the panes is cracked or shattered. There are, however alternatives to replacing the entire glass unit that can provide long term double repair solutions for the glazing.
The first step is to get rid of the condensation using an industrial defogging spray, like WD-40 Original for Windows. The spray can be applied to both sides of the glass, and will take all the moisture away in minutes. This should be done at least 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 for you to make two small holes below the lower edge of the window. The sun will heat the outside glass and any condensation that forms in the window will be pushed towards the holes. As the air expands, it will vent out of the holes. This will usually clear the local double glazing repair window, but it will not solve the issue in the first place.
Alternately, it is possible to employ a hole-free approach but it 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 prevent them from spreading further and this can be a viable long-term solution, but it's not as effective as a replacement unit with an entire seal. It is recommended to hire an expert in both instances to ensure that the procedure is done correctly and to avoid problems with leaks or condensation.
Mist
When mist forms on windows, it is usually a sign that the seal of the window has failed. In some cases it is possible to repair the issue. However, in the majority of instances, it will require replacing the seal.
This problem can happen with both new and old double-glazed windows. It is typically caused by a large difference in temperature between indoors and outdoors. When cold air is pushed against the warm air, moisture may form within the window. The condensation then dries onto the glass's surface creating fog or mist.
The way this is avoided with modern double glazing is that the space between the panes is filled with a gas known as argon. The gas acts as a barrier between warm and cold air. The space is also sprayed with a special silica formula that has been designed to absorb moisture between the panes of glass. It is not unusual for these chemicals to break down over time though and that is when you will start to see the accumulation of moisture in the window.
If the condensation is confined on the inside of your double glazed windows then it may be possible to repair them instead of replacing them. The repair process will involve removing the sealed unit from the frame, cutting the panes from the spacer bars, and then cleaning each one thoroughly before replacing the desiccant. The end result should be windows that are clear and free of condensation. This is a great option for those who wish to save money but don't want replace their existing windows.
If you have broken glass or extensive rot, or a frame with lost integrity then it is likely that replacement is required. If you're having issues with the window seal it could be possible to have your windows saved and upgraded to be more energy efficient. Find a local company that specializes in double-glazed window repairs to find out what options you have to consider to fix the current glass.