How to Repair a Double Glazed Window
Double glazing is a cost effective way to insulate your home and improve its energy efficiency. However, it is susceptible to problems like condensation and draughts.
While replacement is the most obvious solution to these issues, repairs are usually a more cost-effective option. Let's look at some of the most popular double-glazed window repair options:
Broken Panes
The first step is to take off the broken pane. Wear a pair of thick gloves and put a cardboard box nearby to catch any glass fragments that fall as you work. Wear a mask and eye-protection because of the risk of lead being in the frame. Use a utility blade to cut the glass surrounding the window pane that is broken. Make use of pliers to take out any clips or nails that are securing the windowpane. After the glass is removed, scrape off any old putty and metal glazing points. If needed, a heat gun can be used to soften the putty.
Once the old putty is removed Re-grout the grooves and apply a new caulk using a silicone caulking gun. It is a good idea to examine the fit of the new window inside its frame before applying the final caulking. Make sure the grooves are clean of any rust, gunk or paint and aren't too narrow for the window to fit in.
Next take the opportunity to replace the sash using an appropriate wood molding that matches the window frame. If the windowframe is in a poor state it could be easier and more cost-effective to replace the entire window unit instead of one 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 gas used to insulate. But in recent years, manufacturers have switched to glass units that are insulated (IGs) which are more efficient in energy use and are resistant to seal failure. In a double-pane glass with a damaged IG, moisture from the environmental air seeps into the gap and condenses on the inside of the glass. This process eventually destroys the insulating properties of IG and leaves an odourless residue on the glass.
To fix a broken IG glass, the glass repair expert can replace the entire unit or could replace only the damaged surface of the glass. upvc window repairs near me can be costly and time-consuming, however it is the only way to fix a defective seal that allows water to leak into the home. Selecting high-quality windows from a trusted manufacturer and having them fitted by a skilled technician can help prevent future issues with the seals.
Misty Panes
The frame of the window can hold three or two panes separated by air-filled spaces. The air, which is typically filled with argon for better energy efficiency and to keep warm air in it, helps keep cold air out. However, windows with this feature can fail and you might see a hazy, smokey fog between the glass panes. It may seem like it's time to replace the entire window however, it's not as simple as removing the damaged pane and replacing it.
In most cases, a misted window indicates a problem with the seal between the two panes of glass. The mist or condensation means that moisture has entered, which damages the insulation properties of double-glazing. This is the reason it's crucial to pay attention to the care of your windows and keep them clean.
If you see condensation between the glass panes, it is a sign that there is excessive moisture in your home. You must dehumidify and take other measures to increase the airflow in rooms where this occurs frequently. However, if the condensation is just on one side of the window, or is visible between the glass panes It means there's a problem with the seal and you'll need to have it fixed.
There is no way to reseal a double-glazed window to bring back its energy efficiency. When the seal breaks down the gap will allow cold air to enter your house and warm air to escape. This can damage the insulation of your home which will make it more expensive to heat.
Some companies will drill holes in your window's outer pane and drain the condensation. However, this is an in-between solution that will unlikely last longer than six months. You should also avoid trying to do this yourself, as it is very risky if you don't have the proper tools or know-how. A double-glazing professional will use specially designed equipment to safely eliminate the condensation and replace it with new air vents that should help to prevent future misting.
Frame Damage
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage and even with the best of care faults can develop. Some issues are minor and easily be fixed. Other issues are more severe and require a complete replacement. This is a decision to be made by the owner of the property, taking into consideration the benefits they receive from their double glazing and the value it adds to their home.
If you are having trouble opening or closing your windows it could be caused by misting on the glass or an issue with the frame. If this is the case, you must have your windows fixed as quickly as you can to avoid 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 keeps the glass panes in their frames and stops them from moving may wear out. This could cause one or both glass sheets to move a bit and cause a break in the seal and leads to misting. The insulating space between the panes could also mist up, indicating that there is a broken seal.
A common issue is windows that have sagged over time and are difficult to open or close. This can usually be repaired by altering the hinges or mechanisms. Keep in mind that double-glazed windows are covered by an insurance policy. In this instance you must contact the company where you bought your double glazing to learn what you need to do.
Double-glazed windows can be repaired yourself, but it's better to consult with a professional to benefit from their experience and expertise. Professionals can identify the issue and offer the appropriate double glazing repairs quickly and efficiently. This will also allow you to avoid voiding your warranty, because attempting to fix windows on your own without the proper information could invalidate the warranty.
Weather Damage
Although you may think of double pane windows as resistant to weather damage but if you live in an area susceptible to hail storms, ice storms high winds, and torrential rains windows and seals could take some serious battering. It is important to check your windows regularly and repair any small scratches or chips immediately they are discovered.
Blown windows can be one of the most significant issues you could face when you have double glazing. When there is a gap between the two glass panes air and moisture could seep into your home. This is typically a sign of deterioration in the seals or problems with the insulating material between your panes.
Another problem that many homeowners encounter with double-glazed windows is condensation that forms between the panes. This is caused by the warm air inside your home being warmer than the cooler air outside. The warmer air expands because of the difference in temperature which could cause window seals weaken or break over time.
Double-glazed windows can also lead to foggy windows. The good part is that it's a problem that can often be resolved without having to replace the IGU. This is an indication that your window panes' seals need to be resealed.
You'll need to make an opening between the window panes. The hole should be large enough to allow you to insert the pipe cleaner, or other object that is long with cloth at the other end. The cloth end will be used to wash your windows clean and eliminate any condensate left behind. This will help to create an airtight seal and will prevent any future fogging of your double-glazed windows.
This is an interim solution for windows that are hazy. Condensation will occur again as soon as it rains or there is an increase in humidity. If you are looking for a permanent solution you'll have to replace the old IGU.