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Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary
Double-glazing windows are a great method to conserve energy. They are susceptible to damage over time. Fortunately, they can be repaired easily.
A problem with the seal can be detected by foggy glass, condensation in between the panes, and mist. The good news is that a professional will usually solve this issue without having to replace the entire window.
Broken Panes
A rock, a baseball thrown or even a strong breeze can break the double-pane windows. When this happens, it can be difficult to determine if the whole window should be replaced or the insulation benefits of this type of glass can be restored by an easy repair.
Repairing a damaged glass pane of a double-glazed window isn't as difficult as it appears. You can repair it yourself if you have the right materials and know how to utilize them. By using the correct tools, you will prevent further damage to your windows. Additionally, you will be able to avoid injuries due to handling 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 that are protected and a method to dispose of the waste close at hand. You can make use of a multi-purpose knife or deglazing tools to complete the task. After you've removed the sealant, you can carefully remove the broken pane and place it in a safe place to store it for a while.
The next step is to prepare the frame for the replacement pane. Make use of a utility knife to scrape away any old caulking or paint from the rabbets. The bare wood can be exposed using a paint remover or sandpaper. Apply an exterior primer coat to the surface that is exposed.
Then, you can apply putty on the rabbets in preparation for the installation of the new glass. The putty needs to be soft and warm enough that it can be used in the rabbets. It is crucial to press down evenly on the entire surface so that there are no gaps.
After the putty is been set, you can install wooden stops and silicone around the edges of your double pane window to make sure it is as solid as possible. You should also replace the weather stripping at the bottom of your frames in order to increase the air flow and prevent water from entering your home. This can also reduce the cost of energy.
Foggy Glass
Often, foggy windows are a sign that the seals have deteriorated and draughts and moisture can be able to get into the gaps. This is especially prevalent in wet and humid climates where the wooden frames may rot if exposed to too much water and condensation. If this is the situation, a replacement window may be needed however it's usually cheaper to fix the problem with the glass unit that is already in place.
To ensure that the glass is not broken, drill small holes inside the frame using a carbide-tipped tool. Then, you can use a dehumidifier or cleaning solution to remove the trapped moisture from between the two glass panes. It is important not to do this on a day that's extremely hot or cold. This could cause the glass to break. It's also a good idea to wear gloves and safety goggles since you'll be working with very sharp tools close to the glass.
After the fog has cleared out, you can then add a small tube into one of the holes. Then make use of a spray-rinse solution to wash the glass panes and clean off any remaining debris. Once the window is dry it is possible to apply caulk on both the hole and the glass's edge to shield it from the elements.
Depending on how well you're adept in DIY, you might decide to attempt to fix the leaky seals yourself rather than calling a professional. However, this is an extremely risky undertaking and you'll need to monitor the condition of the plug when it is installed into the gap. Even if the issue is resolved, it's likely to return within six months as moisture will re-infiltrate the gap. This can cause condensation and draughts within the home as well as being an electrical hazard. It's best to hire an experienced professional to complete the task.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation in double paned windows is more than just an inconvenience. It is a sign that the seals are failing. This allows moisture to move in which could harm the gaskets and, when the condensation is extreme it can cause jams or cause rot to wooden window frames. This is typically fixed by replacing the window a new one that has gaskets and seals.
However, the cost of doing this is high and it is not always feasible, particularly in the event that one or both the panes are broken or cracked. There are alternatives to replacing the entire glass unit that can provide long-term double glazing repair solutions.
First, try to clear any condensation with commercial defogging products like WD-40 Original For Windows. This spray can be sprayed on both sides of the glass, and will absorb all the moisture in minutes. This is best done at least once a day, but is able to be repeated if required.
If the problem persists the issue is not resolved, it might be necessary to make two small holes below the lower edge of the window. When the sun shines on the outside glass, it warms up and if there is any condensation inside the window, it will be pushed towards the holes and then be vented out through the holes as the air expands. This usually clears the window of condensation but since it hasn't dealt with what caused the problem in the beginning it could be an ongoing issue.
It is also possible to utilize a hole-free technique but it won't work as well and runs the risk of shattering or cracking the glass. This is a long-term fix that involves placing a specific glue into the cracks. It can be effective however, it is not as effective as a replacement using an entire seal. In both cases it is recommended to have the work completed by a professional to ensure that the process is followed precisely and to avoid issues that could arise from future repairs to double glazing windows leaks or condensation.
Mist
When mist forms on a window it is usually a sign that the seal of the window has failed. In some instances, this can be repaired. However, in the majority cases it will require replacing the unit.
This is a problem that can occur in both new and old double glazed windows. It is typically caused by a large difference in temperature between the indoors and outdoor. This can cause water to form inside the glass as the cold air comes in contact with the warm air. The condensation then sets on the glass's surface creating fog or mist.
Modern double glazing is made by filling the space between the glass panes with the gas argon. This 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 wick away moisture between the glass panes. These chemicals may wear off over time and you may notice a buildup of moisture inside the window.
If the condensation only occurs on the inside of the double-glazed windows it may be possible for them to be repaired rather than replaced. The repair process will involve removal of the sealed unit from the frame, tearing the panes apart from the spacer bars, cleaning each one thoroughly and replacing the desiccant. The final result is windows that are clear and free of condensation. This is a great option for those looking to save money but don't want replace their existing windows.
It is obvious that if you have broken panes, extensive decay or frames that have lost its strength, replacement will be necessary. If you do have an issue with your window seal then it may be possible to save your windows and make them more energy efficient again. Contact a local business that specialises in double glazed window repairs to find out what options you have to fix your current glazing.