Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing can keep a building warm, but it can be prone to problems as time passes. Leaks, broken glass, or foggy windows are all issues that could lead to energy loss, expensive repairs and health problems.
FENSA certified installers can help you maintain and repair your double glazing to meet energy efficiency standards for legal compliance and potential resale value.
Broken Panes
A broken window can cause a lot of problems, as it can hinder airflow, light, and even pests. While you can certainly engage a professional to repair the broken pane however, you could also fix the problem yourself for less than the cost.
To do this, you'll have to take off the old pane. Start by putting on safety glasses, gloves for work and dust masks to protect yourself from lead shards and glass dust. Set up a stable surface that is well ventilated. Put a drop cloth under the work surface to catch any glass that falls when you take it off. It is a good idea to have a HEPA vacuum in the vicinity to clean up dust, debris, and hazardous waste when you work.
Utilize a utility blade to scrape the old glazing putty off after the old window was removed. Be careful not damage the wooden frame of the window. If the old putty is having a particularly hard time getting off it is possible to use the heat gun to soften it. Wear safety glasses and be cautious about getting hot glass or wood pieces in your eyes when using a heatgun.
Then, you can prepare the frame to receive the new pane. Measure the opening, and subtract 1/16 inch both ways to account for expansion and contraction of the wood. The local hardware store can then cut an inch of double strength glass to exactly fit the opening. Dry-fit the glass to ensure it is snugly fitted before installing.
After you've installed the new glass and a little of latex caulk around the opening's perimeter for the weather seal. Then, you can install the glazing points to keep the new pane in the proper position. For standard sizes of window glass, you will only need to install two points on each edge.
After the new glazing compound has dried, you can paint it to match the rest. If you're concerned about the potential for cracks you can apply a strong strip of masking tape in order to keep the cracks that appear superficial from getting 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 separate pieces you'll have to take it in for professional repair. Metal frames can't be glued together, and attempting to solder or weld them yourself can cause permanent damage.
If the frame isn't too damaged, you can use a small brush and a bit of conservation detergent or water to clean the frame with care. This will get rid of any dirt, grease, or dust that has built up over time. Cleaning old frames with intricate carvings or gesso can reveal the original finish underneath the dust.
If the frame is damaged it will require needle-nose pliers, a flat surface, wood putty, sandpaper and a small clamp. Remove the back of the frame, the photo, and the glass of the frame. Take care to remove the frame at the corners where you can see brads or nails. If possible, open the joints and scrape away any old glue and apply new glue.
Loose Compound
The glazing compound used to secure the glass panes within their wooden frames is an essential part of the energy efficiency of any historic building. It seals the wood, bonds the glass to the frame and sheds moisture to prevent water damage in the course of time. The compound may crack or have gaps that allow air to get in which reduces insulation and increasing utility bills. Maintaining super fast reply for repairs on your double-glazed windows helps keep them running smoothly and efficiently.
If you see drafts at the edges of your window frames the weatherstripping seal could be worn out or loose. This seal can reduce energy costs and increase the comfort of your home. If you hear loud sounds outside, such as traffic or machinery, it could indicate that the glass tape has worn out.
Remove the old tape and clean the frame edge thoroughly. Apply a new piece of tape to the edge of the frame and press firmly. It's available at any hardware store, and it's an inexpensive option to boost the performance of your double-glazed windows.
While standard super glues are great for bonding metal, wood and other common materials, they aren't suitable for glass-based surfaces. Look for a glass based adhesive like Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of glue is formulated to resist UV light and moisture and is a better option for repairing double-glazed windows.
Before you begin repairing your windows, you'll want to clean the surface of the frame and sash using a degreaser to ensure the new glue sticks properly. Prepare the area that will be glazed with an oil-based primer. Make sure to prime the entire surface including the back of the sash where it rests in the frame.
While you can fix many problems with double-glazed windows, if they are severely damaged or no longer offer adequate insulation, replacing them may be the best choice. Talk to a skilled handyman or glazier to help you make the best decision. Regular inspection and maintenance of your windows will ensure they appear their best and operate smoothly for years to come.
Foggy Panes
Foggy windows occur when the window seal fails to seal. This allows air to penetrate and slowly accumulate moisture between the glass panes. Foggy windows can trigger many issues, ranging from calcium deposits and condensation to black staining or fungus. In addition to being unsightly it also leads to lower energy efficiency and higher heating or cooling costs. Fortunately, the issue can be fixed. Foggy windows can result from an easy buildup of moisture, so the first thing to do is to remove as much moisture as you can. This can be accomplished by applying a defogging spray or shaving cream. If these methods don't work you, it's time to contact a professional.
The reason double pane windows function is due to the space between them. This space is often filled with argon and krypton which are non-toxic gasses that are more dense than air and can hinder heat transfer even more. If the gas has leaking out, your windows aren't properly insulated. Replace your windows with IGUs to eliminate the fogging and restore the efficiency of your home.
Many homeowners are under the impression that they need to replace their whole window if it starts to get foggy, however this is not always the situation. In fact, some glass shops will provide replacement of just the insulation glass unit (IGU) without replacing the entire sash or frame. This is a cheaper option that is just as effective in fixing your windows.
Although there are DIY remedies to prevent window condensation, such as shaving gel or defogging cream it is best to call an expert to ensure that the job is done safely and correctly. A window repair professional will first cut holes into the glass and then inject a cleaning solution between the panes. They then clean the surface that has been soiled and dry the interior of the window, restoring its appearance and function. To find out more about this procedure, or to schedule a no pressure consultation at home, call an expert in your area for window replacement and repairs.