Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing keeps buildings warm but it is susceptible to problems as time passes. Issues like leaks, broken glass or foggy windows may lead to loss of energy efficiency, costly repairs, and health problems.
FENSA certified installers can assist you maintain and repair your double-glazed windows to meet the energy efficiency requirements to ensure compliance with the law and the resale value.
Broken Panes
A broken window can be a major problem as it blocks light, air and even pests from entering your home. While you can certainly hire a professional to replace the damaged window, it's also possible to fix the problem yourself for only a fraction of the cost.
You'll have to remove the old window. Begin by putting on protective glasses, work gloves and dust masks to shield yourself from glass shards and lead dust. Establish a stable work surface in a well-ventilated area. It is also recommended to place a drop cloth under the work area to catch loose glass as it is removed. Keep an HEPA vacuum in your vicinity to clean up dust, debris, and hazardous waste while you work.
Once the old 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 is particularly stubborn, use a heat gun to soften it before scraping it away with a knife. Wear safety goggles and be cautious about getting hot glass or wood pieces in your eyes while using a heating gun.
The next step is to prepare the frame to accommodate the new pane. Measure the opening, and subtract 1/16 inch in both directions to take into account the expansion and contraction of the wood. Your local hardware store can cut an inch of double strength glass to precisely fit the opening. Dry-fit the glass to ensure it fits snugly before installing.
After you have installed the new glass, apply a small amount of latex caulk to the opening's perimeter for a weather seal. Then, put in the glazing points to secure the new pane in the proper position. For standard sizes of window glass, you will only need to put in two points for each edge.
Once the new glazing compound has dried, you can paint over it to match the rest of the frame. If repairmywindowsanddoors concerned about the possibility of cracks then you can apply a heavy-duty strip of masking tape in order to keep the cracks that appear superficial from getting worse.
Frames that are damaged
The first thing to do is examine the frame. If there are cracks, corrosion, or rust or the frame has broken into two pieces, you'll need to bring it to a repair professional. Metal frames are not able to be glued and any attempt to weld or solder them can cause permanent damage.
If the frame isn't damaged, you can apply a small amount of brush and some conservation detergent or water to wash the frame carefully. This will get rid of any grease, dust or dirt that may have accumulated over time. Cleaning the frames of your antique with intricate carvings or gesso can reveal the gleaming original finish underneath the layers of dust.
If the frame is damaged, you will need a pair of needle-nosed pliers and sandpaper, aswell an adjustable clamp. Start by removing the glass, photo and the back of the frame. Take care to remove the frame at the corners where you see brads or nails. If you can, open the joints, scrape off any old glue and apply new glue.
Loose Compound
The glazing compound that keeps glass window panes within their wooden frames is a vital component of any building's energy efficiency. It seals the wood, binds the glass to the frame and sheds moisture to prevent water damage in the course of time. Cracks or gaps in this compound can cause air infiltration, which lowers insulation values and increases energy bills. Make sure you are keeping track of the repair work on your double-glazed windows to ensure that they run smoothly.
The weatherstripping may be worn or loose if you see drafts in the window frames. This seal can help reduce energy costs and increase comfort. If you hear loud noises from outside, such as traffic and machinery it could be a sign that the glazing tape is worn out or is missing.
Remove the old tape from around the edge of the frame and scrub the area thoroughly. Apply a new piece tape to the frame's edge and press it firmly. This tape is available at any hardware store and is a cost-effective option to enhance your double-glazed window's performance.
Standard super glues are great for metal, wood, and other common materials. However, they're not ideal for glass surfaces. Find a glass-based adhesive such as Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of glue has been made to resist sunlight and moisture and is the best choice for repairing double-glazed windows.
Before you start repairing your windows, you'll need to clean the surface of the frame and sash by using a degreaser to ensure that the new glue is able to stick. Then prepare the area that will be painted by applying an oil-based primer. Prime the entire area including the back of the sash which is where it sits within the frame.
You can repair most double-glazed window problems however, when windows are badly damaged or do not provide enough insulation, replacing them could be the best choice. Get a professional handyman or glazier to help you make the best choice. Regular maintenance and repairs can keep your windows looking their best for a long time.
Foggy Panes
Foggy windows happen when the window seal fails to seal. This allows air to get in and slowly accumulate moisture between the glass panes. Foggy windows can trigger many problems, ranging from calcium deposits and condensation to black stains or fungus. It's not just ugly but also leads to a reduction in energy efficiency as well as increased heating or cooling costs. Fortunately, the problem can be fixed. Foggy windows can result from the simple accumulation of moisture, so the first step is remove as much moisture as possible. This can be done by spraying a defogging agent or using shaving cream. If these solutions do not help, it is time to call an expert.
Double pane windows can function because of the space between them. This space is often filled with argon or krypton, which are non-toxic gasses that are more dense than air and can hinder heat transfer even more. If the gas has leaked out, your windows aren't adequately insulated. Replacing your windows with new IGUs will not only fix the fogging, but also improve your home's energy efficiency as well.
Some homeowners believe they must replace the entire window when the fogging occurs, but it's not always the case. In fact some glass shops provide replacement of just the IGU, or insulating glass unit (IGU) without replacing the entire frame or sash. This is a less expensive option and could be equally effective in fixing your windows.
Although there are DIY remedies for window condensation, like shaving cream or defogging spray, it is best to contact a professional to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. A window repair professional will cut holes into the glass and then inject a cleaning solution into the space between the panes. The window repair expert will scrub the surface and dry the inside, restoring the appearance and function of the window. Contact a local window replacement and repair expert to know more about the process, or schedule a no-pressure in-home consultation today.