How to Repair Double Glazed Windows

Typically, double glazing comes with a warranty of either 10 or 20 years. If your double glazed windows are showing signs of aging, you may be eligible to have them repaired under warranty.

Double-glazed window repair involves the re-sealing of your glass unit. The seal is not working if you see misting.

Damaged Glass

Double pane windows require an airtight seal in order to perform properly. The condensation between the glass plates is a common indication of a failing seal. While condensation between glass is not an issue that needs to be addressed, it's usually a sign that the glazing unit requires replacement. If you have a double-glazed windows that is old, it might be necessary to replace both the glass and the frame. If the frame is in good shape it is possible to save money by just replacing the glass.

Double-paned windows can develop cracks because of the fragility of glass. If the cracks weren't caused by mechanical damage, or an unusual impact on the window it is possible to repair them by using epoxy and elbow grease. Start by cleaning over the cracked area using a moist cotton rag. Then, apply epoxy to the crack according to the instructions of the manufacturer. Allow the epoxy to fully dry before sanding and painting over the repaired area.

It's also possible to keep a crack from spreading with an easy strip of masking tape. One strip of tape on both sides of the cracked area is enough to stop superficial cracks, like stress cracks caused by low temperatures, from escalating. If you notice more severe cracks in your glass that are already present, it is recommended to consult a professional for the repair.

Attempting to replace just a single pane of double-pane window glass is a difficult and dangerous DIY job. Double-pane windows are constructed as a whole unit and sealed at the factory using inert gas, which means it would be impossible to remove the glass without causing damage to the entire window. If you intend to replace the glass in your double-paned windows, select a brand that has a long-lasting warranty.

You can also apply newspaper to protect the window frame prior to when you remove the sash, or replace any broken glass. This will protect you from any sharp shards that could fall on the way and also help to prevent any damage to the trim or molding of your home.

Condensation Build-Up

The good part is that condensation occurring between windows is completely normal. It is caused by a difference between the temperature and humidity of the air. The water vapour in air is condensed when it comes into contact with cold, inaccessible surfaces such as windows. This is usually a good thing, especially in winter, as it prevents heat loss.

If your windows appear like they are cloudy and have a thin layer of water on them, you should seek out an experienced professional glazier. This is an indication that the seal between the two panes has begun to weaken, allowing moisture into the window.

You can try to stop this from happening by using a dehumidifier or a fan, enhancing ventilation or applying a de-icing agent. There are also companies that can remove excess moisture from double-glazed windows by drilling into the unit and injecting desiccant. This requires taking the sealed unit out of the frame and then cleaning each glass pane before refilling the desiccant. This is usually more expensive, but it's important to make sure the company you choose to work with is licensed and insured with FENSA.

It is important to keep in mind that tampering with double-glazed windows is not advised and will end any guarantees. If you have a warranty on your windows It is recommended to notify the company of any problems as they'll be responsible for the replacement of any defective units under warranty. It's best to consult an expert before undertaking any DIY repairs. This is especially applicable to older units as they are often more susceptible to fail. It is best to replace the entire glazed panel if this happens. You'll then have brand new windows that will last for many years.

Scratches

It's not uncommon for double-glazed windows to be impacted by scratches on their surfaces. This can be a result of environmental conditions or could be caused by the manner in which the window was originally installed.

Most scratches are not that severe and can be fixed with a few simple remedies. If your windows have been damaged to the point that you can feel the scratch with your finger it is recommended to seek help from a professional to ensure that the glass surface is restored to its original state.

These scratches are caused when objects like pet nails, tree branches and cleaning products that are abrasive scratch the glass of your windows. These scratches are usually removed using non-abrasive materials such as iron oxide or polishes made from cerium dioxide. You'll have to apply these products until the scratch disappears.

Scratches can also result from sanding the wood trim next to your windows and may occur during construction work. They are difficult to repair, however the use of baking soda mixed with water should help smooth the surface and eliminate any remaining scratches.

Metal polish can be used to remove more severe scratches. Apply a small amount the product to a microfibre or cotton cloth and gently rub the affected area in an upward motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, because this could cause further damage to the window. After the area has been smoothed out then use a moist cloth to clean any polish residue left.

If you've got a particularly deep scratch that you cannot remove, you should consider purchasing some special non-abrasive glass polish. You can purchase this at any DIY store. Follow the instructions on the package. You can also apply nail polish to cover any superficial scratches that may appear on the glass. Be sure to only apply the nail polish only to the area that is scuffed.

Haze

The presence of haze within your double-paned window means that the seal between the two panes is damaged. This should be repaired immediately so that moisture and dirt are not able to accumulate between the glass panes. This can cause damage to the glass and cause an increase in transparency.

There are a variety of options to remove haze from your double pane windows. Make use of a defogging product. However, this is just a temporary solution. If you're looking for a long-lasting solution, you'll need to contact a professional glazing company that can fix the issue and replace the gaskets, if necessary.

A carbide-tipped instrument can be used to drill small holes in the frame of the window to eliminate haze. Then, you can insert a desiccate bag into these holes, and then wash the window with rubbing alcohol. The water will clear the haze as well as clean the window.

It is vital to ensure your windows are maintained and regularly cleaned to prevent fogging. This will allow you to see through the double-panes and enjoy the stunning view from your backyard or at home. It is also important to ensure that your home is equipped with adequate ventilation. This will help to ensure that any condensation is quickly eliminated, rather than being allowed to settle and reseal the window.

You should not only clean and maintain your windows regularly, but also ensure that they are installed correctly. Installing your windows should only be completed by a glass company with expertise. This will ensure that the gaskets are fitted correctly and ensure an exact fit. It is also recommended to get your windows fixed as soon as you can before they begin to show signs of wear and tear. This will avoid costly repairs to double pane windows.

Generally, insulated double glazed windows are designed to last for around 20 years. This is because they're designed to stand up to all kinds of weather conditions, such as extremely cold temperatures, high humidity, heat, and repeated closing and opening. It is crucial to keep in mind that faulty installation or material could reduce the life span of double-glazed windows.