Five Laws That Will Aid In The Double Glazed Window Repair Industry
Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double glazing windows are a great alternative to conserve energy. However, they can be damaged as time passes. Luckily, they are fairly easy to fix.
A leaky seal can be detected by foggy glass, condensation in between the panes, and mist. A professional can usually solve this issue without having to replace the entire window.
Broken Panes
A rock, a baseball thrown or even a fierce wind can cause cracks in the double-pane window. When this happens, it is difficult to determine if the whole window has to be replaced or whether the insulation benefits of this type glass can be restored with a simple repair.
The good news is that fixing a damaged pane of glass in a double-glazed window is not as complicated as it may seem. You can do it yourself if you have the right tools and know how to use them. Making use of the right tools will ensure that you are not causing further damage to your windows. You can also avoid injuries dealing with glass that is sharp.
The first step is to remove the old sealant from the broken glass. You can do this by hand as long as you have gloves that are protected and a method to dispose of the waste close at hand. You can use a multipurpose knife or deglazing tools to complete the task. After you've removed the sealant lift out the damaged pane and place it somewhere safe to be stored for the interim.
The next step is to prepare the frame to accommodate the replacement pane. Make use of a utility knife to scrape away any old caulking or paint from the rabbets. You can then use a paint stripper or sandpaper, to expose the bare wood. Apply an exterior primer to the exposed area.
When the rabbets are ready then you can apply putty to them in preparation to reinstall the glass pane. The putty must be soft and warm enough that it can be used in the rabbets. It is essential to press evenly across the entire surface, so that there aren't any gaps.
After the putty has set, you can put back in the wooden stops, and then seal the edges to ensure the double pane windows are as solid as you can. You should also replace the weather stripping that runs along the bottom of your frames to improve aeration and prevent water from entering your home. glass glazier repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk will also lower the cost of energy.
Foggy Glass
Often, foggy windows are a sign that the seals have broken down and draughts and moisture could get into the gap. This is more common in wet and humid environments where wooden frames could be damaged if exposed to excessive amounts of condensation and water. In this situation you may have to replace the window, however, it is usually more cost-effective if the glass unit can be repaired.
This can be done by drilling small holes on the inside of the frame using a carbide-tipped drill bit to ensure that glass is not broken panes. The trapped moisture can be removed with dehumidifiers, or a cleaning agent. It is essential to avoid doing this during a time that is extremely cold or hot. This could cause the glass to break. Wear safety glasses and gloves as you will be working with sharp tools close to the glass.
After the fog has been removed after which you can add the tube in one of the holes and make use of a spray-rinse solution to wash down the panes of glass and scrub off any remaining debris. When the window is dry and clean, you can use caulk to close the hole and the glass edge.
You might be able to repair the leaky seals yourself if you're an expert in DIY. This is a risky task, and you'll have to be aware of the condition of any plugs installed into the gap. Even if the issue is solved but it's likely to come back within six months, as moisture will re-infiltrate the gap. This can cause draughts, electrical hazards, and condensation in the home. It is recommended to hire an experienced professional to complete the task.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation in double pane windows is more than just a nuisance it is a sign that the seals between the glass are failing. This allows moisture to move in and cause damage to the gaskets, and if the condensation is severe, can also jam or cause rot to wooden window frames. The most popular way to address this issue is to have the window replaced with a new one that is fitted with the proper gaskets and seals.
However, the expense of doing this can be high and it's not always possible, especially in the event that one or both the panes is cracked or shattered. There are alternatives to replacing the entire unit of glass that offer long-term double glazing repair solutions.
First, try to eliminate any condensation using a commercial defogging product such as WD-40 Original For Windows. This spray can be used on both sides of glass and absorb moisture within minutes. It should be done once every day at minimum, however you can repeat it if necessary.
If the issue persists it could be necessary for you to drill two small holes just below the lower edge of the window. When the sun shines on the outer glass it will warm up and if there's any condensation inside the window, it will flow towards the holes and then be sucked out through the holes as the air expands. This is usually enough to clear the window, but it will not solve the original problem.
Alternatively, it is possible to employ a hole-free approach but it won't perform as well and could run the risk of shattering or cracking the glass. This is a long-term solution that involves the application of a special glue into the cracks. It can be effective, but not as good as a replacement that has a complete seal. It is best to employ a professional in both cases to ensure that the procedure is correctly followed and to avoid any future issues with leaks or condensation.
Mist
If mist appears on windows, it is usually an indication that the seal has failed. In certain cases it can be fixed. However, in most instances, it will require replacing the unit.
This problem can happen with both old and new double-glazed windows. It is typically caused by a large difference in temperature between indoors and outdoors. This can cause water to build up inside the glass as the cold air comes in contact with the warm air. The condensation then dry on the surface of the window and forms a fog or mist.
Modern double glazing works by filling the gap between the glass panes with the gas argon. This gas acts as an air barrier between warm and cold air. The area is also sprayed with a specific formula of silica which is designed to absorb moisture between the glass panes. These chemicals can wear out over time and you could notice the appearance of moisture in the window.
If the condensation is only visible on the inside of the double-glazed windows it may be possible for them to be repaired instead of being replaced. The repair involves the removal of your sealed unit from the frame. Splitting the panes from the spacer bars, and cleaning them thoroughly. The end result should be a clean window with no more condensation on the inside. This is a great choice for those who wish to save money but don't want replace their windows.
Obviously, if you have broken panes, extensive rot or a frame that has lost its strength, then replacement is required. If, however, you are experiencing issues with the window seal, it might be possible to save your windows and make them more energy efficient again. You can contact a local company specializing in double-glazed window repairs and learn about the options you have to fix your existing glazing.