Repairing Double Glazed Windows

When double glazed windows "blow" in the wind, argon that is insulating escapes, causing the window repairs to lose energy efficiency. The good news is, blowing double glazing is usually repaired without the need to replace the windows.

Condensation or moisture in between your double glazed windows is the most common sign that the seals on your windows have failed. This can be repaired by a professional saving you the expense of a new window.

Remove the Sash

Double-glazed windows can add value and elegance to your home. They also improve your home's energy efficiency by keeping cold out and the heat in. Double glazed windows can help you save money on heating bills in Minnesota's harsh winters.

The primary difference between single and double glazed windows is the gas that is injected into the space between the panes of argon or air. This makes a huge difference to the insulation properties of your windows as they prevent the transfer of heat through the glass. By selecting an inert low-conductivity gas, such as Krypton or argon to fill your windows, you can increase their insulation properties.

Another benefit of having double-glazed windows is that they are more secure than single pane windows. They are harder to break and are able to have modern security locking systems installed. They can be equipped with toughened or laminated glass to make them safer. Double-glazed windows are more sturdy and less prone to sway in the wind or from vibrations from heavy traffic which makes them a great option for older homes.

Double-glazed windows are also constructed of low-energy glass which helps reduce the UV rays entering your home. This will protect your carpets, furniture and paintings from fading. This is especially useful when you have windows that are exposed to direct sunlight for the majority of the day.

Retrofitting an old sash window with double glazing is more affordable than buying new windows. The interior linings, cladding, and opening mechanisms of your current windows remain intact, so the job is much less invasive.

As an added bonus, the installation of double glazed windows is much faster than the process of removing and replacing a window in its entirety. This means that you will be able to enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency, increased security and reduced glare and UV damage to your furnishings for a much lower price.

Take the Glass off

Double-glazed windows differ from single pane windows in that they are made up of two glass panes, separated by an air layer and an air spacer. This creates insulation. This is known as an insulated unit (IGU) that is filled with gases like argon or Krypton, can provide even better insulation. These units are susceptible to being damaged as time passes and stop functioning properly. It is essential to remove any broken glass as safely and quickly as possible.

Replacing double glazed windows can be a challenging DIY task that requires specialist tools and techniques. It is best to delegate the job to a professional, who will use the right safety equipment and follow the proper procedure to avoid injury.

This is particularly important since double-glazed windows can be extremely fragile and can easily break or even crack. Wear a respirator or gloves and mask to safeguard yourself when working on the window. You should also make sure that the area around the frame is clean and free of any debris. You should also put a large piece of plastic over the place where the deglazing tool is going to score to capture any broken pieces of glass and make them easier to remove.

It's important to check for signs of double-glazed windows that aren't working correctly. A window that is draughty is one of the most frequently observed signs that your IGU is blowing and is no longer providing adequate insulation. You may also notice that the windows are cloudy or repairing double glazed Windows have condensation between them.

Double glazing isn't just an opportunity to reduce energy costs but also protect your furniture from light and heat. Furniture can fade and break when exposed to sunlight for prolonged periods of time, however double-glazed windows protect your furniture from direct sunlight, and also reduce the amount of heat that comes into your home.

Double glazing that is energy efficient can increase the value of your property. If you're looking to sell your home in the future installing double glazing is a good investment that can draw potential buyers.

Remove the Gaskets

Double glazing is a fantastic method of increasing the energy efficiency of your home, but it can wear out over time. Double glazed windows that show visible damage, have draughts or are susceptible to condensation need to be repaired or replaced.

A key part of the window assembly is the gasket, a neoprene or butyl rubber seal that cushions the glass and offers weather protection. Gasket degradation is a leading cause of leaks and moisture getting into buildings. Fortunately, the seals can be replaced without having to replace the whole window.

Often, the gaskets can be repaired by pinching them and pulling them away. This is much easier on uPVC frames than on aluminum or repair timber windows. If you're unable remove the seals by hand, it's a good idea to use a builder's knife to pry away the seal until you can grip it with your fingers. After the seal has been removed, you can use the new seal to ensure an even tighter fit and maximum effectiveness.

After the seals have been replaced and the window beading is replaced, it must be removed. You can make use of a lead or putty knife to remove the window beading. The blade should be placed between the frame and the bead at the middle of longest bead. This will give you the maximum leverage to remove the frame from the bead.

After all the beading is gone, you can then remove the window glass. The gap between the two panes must be about 12mm and it's crucial to fill the gap with Argon gas for optimum thermal performance. A wider gap could be used to reduce the noise level however it can reduce the insulating performance of windows.

After the frame has been cleaned it's a good idea to spray it with window cleaner prior to placing the DGP. This will stop the tape from adhering to the glass instantly, giving you time to place it in the right position. To avoid damage, it's worth wiping the seals with a soft rag and a warm soapy liquid.

Re-seal the Window

If you notice that your double glazed windows are getting cloudy or there is condensation between the panes, then it may be time to have them resealed. These kinds of issues indicate that the inner seal isn't able to hold in the insulating gas. This is not uncommon; the rubber that keeps in the insulating gas can be damaged due to wear and tear or improper installation.

A window specialist who is experienced will reseal every gap by applying a new seal. The technician will fill the gaps with silicone caulk. This will keep the cold out and warm air in during winter. This caulk can stop bugs from entering your home and also prevent moisture from entering.

Re-sealing double glazed windows is not a simple DIY project. However it is possible. It is a laborious and time-consuming task that requires special tools to remove the old caulk, clean the area, then apply a new caulk. It is recommended to get a professional glazier to do the job to avoid injury and to ensure that it is done properly.

In some cases, a double-glazed glass window cannot be repaired and must be replaced completely. This can be caused by cracked or shattered glass, extensive damage to the frame or serious decay. Consult a double-glazing expert to determine the best option for these scenarios.

Oftentimes, the misting of the windows can be a sign that the treatment of the glass in the factory has failed. The factory will treat the window with a low emissivity coating to reflect heat away and it may pump in the gas argon to provide insulation. If these treatments fail, moisture is allowed into the gap between the glass panes and it could cause condensation. A professional can address this issue by drilling tiny holes into the glass panes and then injecting a dehydrating agent to remove the moisture. The professional will then fill the gap with a new gas that is insulating, and seal it without letting any gas escape.