Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing can keep a home warm but it is susceptible to problems in time. Broken glass, leaks, or foggy windows are all problems that can lead to the loss of energy, costly repairs and health problems.
FENSA certified installers can help you repair or maintain your double glazing to comply with the energy efficiency requirements of legal compliance and resale prices.
Broken Panes
A broken window can create a lot of issues, since it could block light, air and even pests. You can hire an expert to fix the broken pane however, you can do it yourself at a fraction of the cost an expert would charge.
You'll need to take out the old window. Start by putting on safety glasses, gloves for work and dust masks to shield yourself from lead shards and glass dust. Install a sturdy surface in an area that is well ventilated. Put a drop cloth under the work surface to catch any glass that falls when you take it off. You should keep a HEPA vacuum close by to clean up dust and other hazardous waste while you work.
Use a utility blade to scrape the old glass putty off after the old window has been removed. Be careful not damage the wooden frame of the window. If the old putty is having an especially difficult time coming off, you can use a heat gun first to soften it. Be sure to wear safety goggles when working with a heating gun, and be cautious to avoid putting hot glass or wood shards in your eyes.
The next step is to prepare the frame for the new pane. Measure the opening and subtract 1/16 inch in both directions to allow for expansion and contraction of the wood. Your local hardware store will cut an inch of double strength glass to exactly fit the opening. Before you install the new glass dry-fit it for it is snugly fitted.
Once you have the new glass in place, put a tiny amount of latex caulk around the perimeter of the opening for a weather-proof seal. Install the glazing points next to secure the new glass. For standard window glass sizes it is only necessary to install two points on each edge.
After the new glaze has dried it is possible to paint it over to match the rest of the frame. If you are concerned about cracks that could occur, you can use a heavy-duty masking tape to prevent superficial cracks from getting worse.
Frames damaged
You should inspect the frame first. You'll need to have it fixed professionally in the event of cracks, rust or corrosion, or if the frame appears to be broken into two pieces. Metal frames aren't able to be joined by glue and trying to solder or weld them yourself can cause permanent damage.
If the frame has not been badly damaged It can be cleaned with a tiny brush, some conservation detergent and water. This will remove any grease, dirt, or dust that has accumulated through the years. Cleaning old frames using intricate carvings or gesso can reveal the original finish underneath the dust.
If the frame is damaged, you'll require a pair needle-nosed pliers, wood glue and sandpaper, aswell with a small clamp. Begin by taking off the glass, photo and the back of the frame. Carefully pull the frame apart at the corners where you see nails or brads. If possible, open the joints and scrape out any old glue and apply new glue.
Loose Compound
The glazing compound that holds glass window panes in their wooden frames is an essential part of any historic building's energy efficiency. It seals wood, bonds glass to frames and sheds water to avoid damage caused by water over time. The material can break or have gaps that allow air to enter the frame, reducing insulation values and increasing utility costs. Make sure you are keeping track of the repair work of your double-glazed window to keep them running smoothly.
If you see drafts at the edges of your window frames the weatherstripping seal could be worn out or loose. This seal can help reduce energy bills and improve the comfort of your home. If you hear loud sounds outside, such as traffic or machinery, this could mean that the tape on the glass is worn out.
Remove the old tape from the frame's edge and scrub the area thoroughly. Apply a new piece tape to the edge of the frame and press it down firmly. This tape is available in any hardware store and is an inexpensive way to improve your double-glazed window's performance.
Super glues that are standard are great for metal, wood, and other common materials. However they're not the best choice for glass surfaces. Find a glass-based adhesive, such as Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of glue is formulated to resist sunlight and moisture and is a better option for repairing double-glazed windows.
Before you start repairing your windows, you'll want to clean the surface of the frame and sash using a degreaser to ensure the new glue is able to stick. Prepare the area to be coated by using an oil-based primer. Be sure to prime the entire surface, including the back of the sash where it rests in the frame.
There are many ways to fix double-glazed window issues, but if the windows are severely damaged, or if they are no longer able to provide sufficient insulation, replacing them may be your best option. Get a professional glazier or handyperson to make the best decision. Regularly checking and fixing Emergency Glazier will help them look their best and function efficiently for years to come.
Foggy Panes
Foggy windows happen when the window seal fails. This allows air to penetrate and slowly build up moisture between the glass panes. Foggy windows can cause many issues, ranging from condensation and calcium deposits to black stains and fungus. Apart from being ugly and causing a decrease in energy efficiency and higher heating or cooling costs. Fortunately, it is possible to fix the problem. Foggy windows are usually caused by a simple water buildup, so the first step is to get rid of as much moisture as possible. This can be accomplished by using a defogging product or shaving cream. If these solutions are not working then it's time to call an expert.
Double pane windows can function because of the space between them. This space is filled with the gas argon or krypton. These non-toxic gasses are much more dense than air and can slow heat transfer. If the gas has leaking out your windows, they're not properly insulated. Replace your windows with IGUs to fix the fogging and increase your home's efficiency.
Some homeowners believe that they need to replace the entire window if the fogging occurs, but this isn't the case in all cases. In fact, some glass shops will offer to replace just the insulation glass unit (IGU) without replacing the entire sash or frame. This is a cheaper solution and is just as efficient in fixing your windows.
Although there are DIY remedies to prevent window condensation, such as shaving gel or defogging lotion, it's best to call a professional so that the job is completed properly and safely. A window repair expert will make holes in the glass and then inject cleaning solutions into the space between the panes. They will then clean the surface that has been soiled and dry the inside of the window, restoring its appearance and functionality. To learn more about this process, or to schedule a no pressure consultation at home, call an expert in your area for window replacement and repair.