How to Repair a Double Glazed Window
Double glazing is a great way to improve your home's energy efficiency and help to insulate it. However, it can be susceptible to issues like condensation and draughts.
While replacing windows is the obvious solution to these issues but repairs are usually a more affordable alternative. Let's look at some of the most common double glazed window repair options:
Broken Panes
The first step is to remove the broken pane from the frame. Wear a pair of thick gloves and put a box of cardboard nearby to catch any shards of glass that fall while you work. Wear a mask and eye protection in case of lead in the frame. Use a utility blade to cut the glazing surrounding the windowpane that has been broken. If nails or clips are securing the windowpane the frame, use pliers to lift them out. Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old putty and metal glazing points. If necessary, a heat gun can be used to soften the putty.
Once the old putty is removed then re-grout the grooves, and apply the new silicone caulk using a silicone caulking gun. It's a good idea check the fit of the new window in its frame prior to applying final caulking. Be sure that the grooves are clean of any rust, gunk or paint and aren't too narrow for the windowpane to sit in.
Then, replace the sash with an appropriate wood molding that matches the window frame. If the windowframe is in a poor state, it may be easier and more cost effective to replace the whole window unit instead of one pane.
In the past double-pane windows were two pieces of glass separated by a spacer and filled with gas or air to create an insulating gas. In recent years, manufacturers changed to insulated glass units (IGs) which are more energy-efficient and resistant to seal failure. In a double-pane windows with a failed IG water from the air outside gets into the window and then condenses on the inside of the glass. This cycle eventually breaks down the insulating properties and leaves a hazy film on the glass.
To fix a damaged IG glass, a glass repair specialist can replace the entire unit or could replace only the damaged surface of the glass. This procedure can be costly and time-consuming, but it is the only option for fixing the seal that is defective and allows water to enter the home. Purchase high-quality windows from reputable manufacturer and then having them installed by a trained technician can help prevent future problems with the seals.
Misted Panes
The frame of the window can hold three or two panes, separated by air-filled spaces. The air, which is usually filled with argon to increase energy efficiency and to keep warm air inside it, helps keep cold air out. However, windows with this feature may break and you might notice a hazy, smoky fog between the glass panes. It could be that it's time for a new window, but you aren't able to simply replace the broken one.
In most cases, a misted window suggests a problem with the seal between the two panes that comprise the glass. The mist or condensation indicates that moisture has penetrated and damaged the insulation of the double glazing. This is why it's essential to be attentive to the care of your windows and keep them clean.
Condensation between the panes of your windows is a sign that there's a lot of humidity in the home, so it's important to dehumidify the area and take other steps to improve the airflow in rooms where this happens frequently. However, if the condensation is only visible on one side of the window, or is visible between the glass panes It means there is a problem with the seal and you'll need to fix it.
There is no such thing as resealing a double-glazed window to restore its energy efficiency. If the seal is damaged, the gap allows cold air in your home, and warm air out. This can reduce the insulation power of your home, making it costlier to heat.
Some companies will drill holes into the window's pane of glass to drain the condensation. But, this is a temporary solution that is unlikely to last for more than six months. It is also not recommended that you attempt to do this yourself, since it could be extremely dangerous without the right tools and knowledge. Double-glazing specialists will employ specific equipment to safely remove the condensation and install air vents to help prevent future misting.
Frame Fragment Damage
Even with the best of care double glazing can develop faults. Some faults are minor and easily be fixed. Other issues are more severe and require the replacement of the entire window. This is a decision that should be taken by the owner of the property, taking into account the level of benefits they get from their double glazing and the value it adds to their home.
If you're having difficulty opening or closing your windows it could be due to misting on the glass or an issue with the frame. If this is the case, you need to have your windows fixed as quickly as possible to prevent any further damage to your double glazing and to stop water from entering the gap between the insulated and uninsulated.
Over time, the protective layer that holds the glass sheets in their frames and stops them from moving can wear down. This could cause the glass sheets to move, which could break the seal and cause misting. Mist can also form in the gap that is used to insulate between the panes, again indicating that the seal is broken and it is now time to repair double glazing.
Another common issue is that the windows have begun to shrink over time and make it difficult to open and close them. This is usually corrected by adjusting the hinges or mechanisms. It is important to remember that many new double glazed windows come with a guarantee and in this instance it's a good idea to call the company from which you bought your double glazing to get information regarding what to do.
Repairing double-glazed windows is possible yourself, but it's usually better to talk to a professional to benefit from their expertise and experience. 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 expertise.
Weather Damage
Double pane windows are immune to weather damage. However, if you live somewhere that is prone to icestorms, hail, high wind and torrential rain, your window frames and seals could be severely damaged. It is essential to inspect your windows on a regular basis and repair any small scratches or chips as soon as they are noticed.
Blown windows are among the most serious issues you could face with your double glazing. When a gap appears between the two panes of glass, moisture and air can be able to enter your home. This is usually an indication of deterioration or a flaw in the insulating material that divides the panes.
Another issue that many homeowners have with their double glazed windows is condensation that forms between the panes. This is due to the warm air inside your house being warmer than the cooler air outside. The warmer air expands due to the temperature difference, which can cause window seals to become weak or break over time.
Double-glazed windows can also cause foggy windows. This is a problem that can be solved without window repair replacing the IGU. This is an indication that your window's seals need to be resealed.
You'll need to make an opening between the window panes. This needs to be big enough to allow for the installation of an extended pipe cleaner or any other long object that has fabric on the other end. The cloth end is used to clean your windows clean and remove any excess condensate. This will create a tighter seal and prevent future fogging.
This is an interim solution for foggy windows. When it rains or there is an abrupt increase in humidity the condensation will recur. If you're looking for a permanent solution you'll have to replace your old IGU.