Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing keeps buildings toasty but can develop problems in time. Issues like leaks, broken glass or foggy windows may lead to loss of energy efficiency, costly repairs, and health problems.
FENSA certified installers are able to help you maintain or repair your double glazing in order to comply with the energy efficiency requirements of legal compliance and resale values.
Broken Panes
A broken window can cause many issues, since it could block light, air and even insects. You can hire an expert to repair the broken window, but you can also fix it yourself for a fraction of what an expert would charge.
You'll have to remove the old window. To shield yourself from glass dust and lead shards, wear protective glasses, gloves and a mask. Set up a stable work surface in a well-ventilated area. Place a dropcloth on the work surface to take any glass that falls when you remove it. Keep an HEPA vacuum close by to remove dust, debris, and hazardous waste while you work.
After the window has been removed, use a utility knife to scrape the old glazing putty. Be careful not to damage the wooden frame of the window. If the old putty has an especially difficult time coming off then you can try using a heat gun to soften it. Be sure to wear safety glasses when working with a heat gun, and be cautious to avoid getting any hot wood or glass fragments in your eyes.
Next, prepare the frame to accept the new pane. To be prepared for wood expansion and contraction, measure the opening and subtract one-sixteenth of an inch in both directions. The hardware store in your area will cut a piece of double strength glass to exactly fit the opening. Before installing the new glass dry-fit it to ensure a snug fit.
Once you have the glass in place, put a small bead of latex caulk around edges of the opening to create a weather-proof seal. Install the glazing points to secure the new pane. For standard window glass sizes you'll only need to install two points on each edge.
Once the new glazing compound has dried, you can paint over it to match the rest of the frame. If you are worried about cracks that could occur then you can use a heavy-duty masking tape to prevent cracks that appear superficial from becoming worse.
Frames that are damaged
You should examine the frame first. If there are cracks, rust, or corrosion or the frame has split into two pieces, you will need to take it in for professional repair. Metal frames cannot be glued and any attempts to weld or solder them will cause permanent damage.
If the frame is not damaged, you may make use of a small brush and a bit of conservation detergent or water to clean the frame with care. This will eliminate any dirt, grease, or dust that may have accumulated through the years. A careful cleaning of old frames with ornate carving or gesso can reveal the original shine beneath the layers of dust.
If the frame is broken it will require needle-nose pliers, a flat surface, wood putty, sandpaper as well as a small clamp. Begin by taking off the glass, photo and the back of the frame. Carefully pry the frame apart at the corners, where you will see the nails or brads. Open the joints and remove any old glue. Apply new glue.
Loose Compound
The glazing compound that holds glass window panes in their wooden frames is a vital component of any building's energy efficiency. It seals wood, binds glass to frames and sheds water to prevent damage caused by water over time. The material can break or have gaps that let air in, lowering insulation values and increasing utility bills. Keeping up with repair work on double-glazed windows can help keep them running smoothly and efficiently.
If you notice that there are drafts around the edges of your window frames, the weatherstripping seal may be worn-out or loose. This seal could reduce energy bills and improve the comfort of your home. If you hear loud sounds outside, like traffic or machinery, this could indicate that the glass tape has worn out.
Remove the old tape from around the edge of the frame and thoroughly clean the frame. Apply a piece of new tape to the frame's edge and press firmly. You can purchase this at any hardware store, and it's a low-cost method to increase the performance of double-glazed windows.
While standard super glues work well to bond metal, wood and other commonly used materials, they're not ideal for use on glass-based surfaces. Find a glass-based adhesive, such as Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This kind of glue is designed to withstand UV light and moisture and is the best choice for repairing double-glazed windows.
Before you begin repairing your windows, you'll want to clean the surface of the frame and sash with a degreaser to ensure that the new glue is able to stick. Then prepare the area that will be coated by priming it with an oil-based primer. Be sure to prime the entire area including the back of the sash, where it rests within the frame.
It is possible to repair most double-glazed window problems however, if the windows are severely damaged or are no longer able to provide sufficient insulation, replacing them may be the best choice. Talk to a skilled handyman or glazier for the best decision. Emergency Glazier yate and repairs will ensure that your windows are looking their best for a long time.
Foggy Panes
Foggy windows happen when the window seal fails allowing air to pass between the glass panes and slowly build up moisture. Foggy windows can trigger a variety of issues, ranging from calcium deposits and condensation to black staining or fungus. Apart from being ugly and causing a decrease in energy efficiency and higher heating or cooling costs. However, it is possible to resolve the issue. Foggy windows are typically caused by simple moisture buildup, so the initial step is to remove as much of the moisture as is possible. This can be accomplished by applying a defogging spray or by applying shaving cream. If these measures don't work you, it's time to consult an expert.
The reason double pane windows work is due to the space between them. This space is usually filled with argon and krypton which are non-toxic gases that are more dense than air and could slow heat transfer even further. If the gas has leaked out the windows, they aren't being insulated properly. Replace your windows with IGUs to stop the issue and improve your home's efficiency.
Many homeowners are under the impression that they need to replace their entire window when it gets foggy, but this isn't always the case. In fact, some glass shops will provide replacement of just the IGU, or insulating glass unit (IGU) without replacing the entire frame or sash. This is a more affordable option that's just as effective at fixing your windows.
Although there are DIY solutions to window condensation, such as defogging spray or shaving cream but it is advised to consult a professional ensure that the job is done safely and correctly. A window repair expert will drill holes in the glass and then inject a cleaning solution into the space between the panes. The window repair specialist will scrub the surface and dry the inside, restoring the appearance and function of the window. Contact an expert in your area for window replacement and repair expert to find out more about the process and arrange a no-pressure consultation at home today.