Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing can help keep buildings warm, but it may also develop problems with time. Issues like leaks or broken glass or foggy windows could result in a decrease in energy efficiency, costly repairs, and even health problems.
FENSA certified installers are able to assist you maintain or repair your double-glazing to comply with the energy efficiency requirements of legal compliance and resale value.
Broken Panes
A damaged window could be a major issue, blocking light, air and even pests from getting into your home. While you can certainly engage a professional to repair the broken pane however, you could also repair the damage yourself at less than the cost.
You will need to remove the old window. To shield yourself from glass dust and lead shards, put on safety glasses gloves, a mask and gloves. Set up a stable work surface that is ventilated in an area. You should also place a drop cloth under the work area to catch any loose glass when it is removed. It is a good idea to keep a HEPA vacuum nearby to remove dust, debris and hazardous waste as 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 wood frame of the window. If the old putty is particularly stubborn, try using a heat gun to soften it before scraping it off using the knife. Wear safety glasses and be cautious about getting hot wood or glass fragments in your eyes when using a heat gun.
Then, you can make the frame ready to receive the new pane. Measure the opening and subtract 1/16 inch both ways to account for expansion and contraction of the wood. Then, have your local hardware store cut you a piece of double-strength plastic that fits the opening precisely. Before fitting the new glass dry-fit it to ensure an ideal fit.
After you have installed the new glass then apply a small amount of caulk made from latex to the perimeter of the opening for the weather seal. Then, you can install the glazing points to hold the new pane in the proper position. For standard window glass sizes you'll only need to put in two points for each edge.
Once the new coating is dry and dried, you can paint it over to match the frame. If you're concerned about the risk of cracks, you can use a sturdy strip of masking tape to keep superficial cracks from worsening.
Frames that are damaged
The first thing you need to do is examine the frame. If there are cracks, corrosion, or rust or the frame is 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 attempts to weld or solder them will result in permanent damage.
If the frame has not been badly damaged It can be cleaned with a small brush, some detergent for conservation and water. This will get rid of any grease, dirt, or dust that may have accumulated through the years. Cleaning old frames with intricate carvings or gesso could reveal the original finish beneath the dust.
If the frame is damaged, you'll require a pair of needle-nosed pliers, wood glue and sandpaper, aswell an adjustable clamp. Begin by getting rid of the glass, picture and the back of the frame. Take care to remove the frame at the corners where you can see brads or nails. Unlock the joints and remove any glue that was used. Apply new glue.
Loose Compound
The glazing compound that holds the glass panes inside their wooden frames is an important part of the energy efficiency of any building. Door Glazier and Glazing is a sealant for the wood, it binds the glass to the frame and sheds moisture to avoid water damage over time. Cracks or gaps in this compound cause air infiltration, which lowers the insulation value and can increase energy bills. Keep up with the repair work on your double-glazed window to ensure they are operating smoothly.
If you notice that there are drafts around the edges of your window frames The weatherstripping seal might be worn or loose. Replacing the seal can reduce energy bills and improves the comfort of your home. If you hear loud noises outside, such as machinery or traffic, this could mean that the glass tape is worn out.
Remove the old tape from around the frame's edge and thoroughly clean the frame. Apply a new piece tape to the frame's edge and press firmly. It's available at any hardware store, and it's a cheap option to boost the performance of your double-glazed windows.
While the standard super glues work well to bond metal, wood and other commonly used materials, they're not ideal for use on glass-based surfaces. Choose a glass-based adhesive like Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of glue is formulated to resist UV light and moisture making it an ideal choice for fixing double-glazed windows.
Before you begin to repair your windows, you'll want to clean the surface of the frame and sash using a degreaser to ensure that the new glue sticks properly. Then prepare the area to be painted by priming it with an oil-based primer. Prime the entire area including the back of the sash where it rests within the frame.
While you can fix many issues with your double-glazed windows, if they're severely damaged or no longer offer adequate insulation, replacing them may be the best choice. Talk to a glazier who is experienced or handyman to help you make the right choice. Regular inspection and maintenance of your windows will help them look their best and run smoothly for years to come.
Foggy Panes
Foggy windows happen when the window seal fails to seal. This allows air to penetrate and slowly accumulate moisture between the glass panes. Foggy windows can trigger a number of problems, from condensation and calcium deposits to black staining and fungus. In addition to being unsightly, it also causes reduced efficiency in energy use and more expensive heating or cooling costs. Fortunately, the problem is fixable. Foggy windows can result from a simple buildup of moisture, so the first thing to do is to remove the most moisture possible. You can accomplish this by using a defogging product or shaving cream. If these solutions are not working you, it's time to call an expert.
Double pane windows are able to work 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 could slow heat transfer even further. If the gas is leaking out the windows, they aren't being properly insulated. Replace your windows with IGUs to stop the fogging and restore the efficiency of your home.
Many homeowners are under the impression that they have to replace their entire window when it becomes foggy, but this is not always the situation. In fact, some glass shops will offer to replace just the insulating glass unit (IGU) without replacing the entire frame or sash. This is a cheaper solution and is just as effective in fixing your windows.
Although there are some DIY remedies to prevent window condensation, such as defogging cream or shaving gel, it's best to call a professional so that the task is done properly and safely. A window repair expert will make holes in the glass and then inject cleaning solutions into the space between the panes. The window repair expert will clean the dirty surface and dry the interior to restore the appearance and functionality of the window. To learn more about this procedure, or to arrange a no-pressure in-home consultation, contact a local expert in window replacement and repair.