Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing can keep a home warm but it is susceptible to problems as time passes. Problems like leaking, broken glass or foggy windows could cause a loss of energy efficiency, expensive repairs, and potential health problems.
FENSA certified installers can assist you repair and maintain your double glazing to meet energy efficiency standards for legal compliance and potential resale value.
Broken Panes
A damaged window can cause a lot of trouble, blocking light, air and possibly even insects from entering your home. While you could certainly hire a professional to replace the damaged window but you can also repair the damage yourself at only a fraction of the cost.
To do this, you'll must remove the old pane. Begin by putting on protective glasses, gloves for work and a dust mask to protect yourself from glass shards and lead dust. Set up Glazier and Glazing in a well-ventilated area. Place a dropcloth under the work surface to take any glass that falls when you take it off. Keep an HEPA vacuum close by to get rid of dust and other hazardous waste when you work.
Once the old window has been removed and the old window is removed, use a knife to scrape off the old glazing putty. Be careful not to damage the wooden frame of the window. If the old putty has a particularly hard time getting off, you can use a heat gun first to soften it. Wear safety goggles and be careful to avoid getting hot wood or glass fragments in your eyes while using a heatgun.
Then, you need to prepare the frame to accept the new pane. To be prepared for wood expansion and contraction take the opening measurement and subtract one-sixteenth of an inch in both directions. Then, ask the local hardware store cut you a piece double-strength glass that fits the opening precisely. Before installing the new glass dry-fit it for a snug fit.
After you have the glass in place, lay a small bead of latex caulk around perimeter of the opening for a weather-proof seal. Then, you can install the glazing points to secure the new pane in the proper position. In general, you will only require two points on each edge for windows of standard sizes.
After the new glazing compound is dry you can then paint it to match the rest. If you are worried about cracks that could occur you can apply a strong masking tape to prevent superficial cracks from getting worse.
Damaged Frames
The first thing you need to do is look over the frame. If there are cracks, rust or corrosion or the frame has broken into two separate pieces you'll need to bring it to a professional repair. Metal frames are not able to be glued and any attempt to weld or solder them will result in permanent damage.
If the frame isn't damaged, you can use a small brush and some detergent for conservation or water to wash the frame carefully. This will get rid of any grease, dust or dirt that has built up over the years. Cleaning old frames with intricate carvings or gesso could reveal the original finish beneath the dust.
If the frame is damaged, you will require a pair of needle-nosed pliers, wood glue and sandpaper, as well an adjustable clamp. Start by removing the glass, photo and back of the frame. The frame should be removed at the corners, where you'll see brads or nails. Unlock the joints and remove any glue that was used. Apply new glue.
Loose Compound
The glazing compound that holds glass window panes in their wooden frames is a vital part of any historic building's energy efficiency. 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 break or have gaps that let air in the frame, reducing insulation values and causing higher utility bills. Keeping up with repair work on your double-glazed windows will help keep them operating smoothly and efficiently.
The weatherstripping could be worn out or loose if you see drafts in your window frames. Replacing this seal will reduce energy bills and improves comfort. If you hear loud noises from outside, like machinery and traffic It could also mean that the glazing tape is worn out or has gone missing.
Remove old tape from the edge of the frame and clean the area thoroughly. Apply a piece of fresh tape to the frame's edge and press firmly. It's available at any hardware store, and it's an inexpensive way to improve the performance of your double-glazed windows.
Standard super glues are excellent for metal, wood and other common materials. However they're not suitable for glass surfaces. Find a glass-based adhesive like Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of glue has been designed to withstand UV light and moisture and is a better option for repairing double-glazed windows.
Before you begin repairing your windows, it is best to clean the surface of the frame and sash with a degreaser to ensure that the new glue adheres properly. Prepare the area to be glazed with an oil-based primer. Prime the entire surface, including the back of the sash which is where it sits within the frame.
You can repair most double-glazed window issues however, when windows are badly damaged, or if they do not provide enough insulation, replacing them could be your best option. Consult an experienced handyman or glazier for the best decision. Regular maintenance and repairs can keep your windows looking great for many years.
Foggy Panes
Foggy windows occur when the window seal is damaged, allowing air to penetrate between glass panes and gradually build up moisture. Foggy windows can lead to a number of issues, ranging from condensation and calcium deposits to black stains and fungus. In addition to looking ugly and causing a decrease in efficiency in energy use and more expensive heating or cooling costs. Fortunately, the issue can be resolved. Foggy windows are often caused by a simple buildup of moisture and the first thing to do is to remove as much moisture as you can. This can be accomplished by applying a defogging spray or using shaving cream. If none of these methods work you need to contact a professional.
Double pane windows are able function due to the space between them. The space is filled with the gas argon or krypton. These non-toxic gases are denser than air and have a slower heat transfer. If the gas is escaping and is escaping, it indicates that your windows aren't well-insulated as they should be. Installing new windows and replacing them with IGUs will not only stop the fogging issue, but will also boost your home's energy efficiency as well.
Many homeowners believe that they must replace their entire window when it starts to get foggy, however this isn't always the situation. In fact, some glass shops will offer to replace just the IGU, or insulating glass unit (IGU) without replacing the entire frame or sash. This is a less expensive option that's equally effective in fixing your windows.
Although there are a few DIY remedies for window condensation, such as shaving cream or defogging spray but it is advised to contact a professional to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. A window repair specialist will cut holes into the glass and then inject an cleaning solution into the space between the panes. They will then scrub the soiled surface and dry the interior of the window, thus restoring its appearance and functionality. To learn more about this process or to schedule a no-pressure in-home consultation, call a local expert in window replacement and repair.