Repairing Double Glazed Windows

Double-glazed windows "blow" in the wind, the insulating gas argon escapes, which causes them to reduce their energy efficiency. The good news is that blown double glazing can be repaired without the need to replace your windows completely.

The most frequent sign of a damaged window seal is condensation or water between double-glazed windows. A professional can repair timber windows this, preventing you from having to replace the window.

Take off the Sash

Double-glazed windows can add value and elegance to your home. They also increase your home's energy efficiency, keeping the cold out and the heat in. With Minnesota's harsh winters double-glazed windows can aid in reducing your heating costs.

The primary difference between double and single windows is the gas that fills the space between panes of argon or air. This can make a significant difference to the insulating properties of your windows because they block the transfer of heat through the glass. By selecting an inert low-conductivity gas, such as argon, or krypton to fill your windows, you will increase their insulation properties.

Double-glazed windows are also more secure than windows with a single pane. They are more difficult to break and can be fitted with modern security locking systems installed. They can be equipped with laminated or Repairing Double Glazed Windows toughened glass to make them safer. Double glazed windows are more durable and less likely to shake in the wind or from the impact of traffic and are a good option for older homes.

In addition, double glazed windows can also be made using low energy glass which reduces the UV rays entering your home. This will ensure that your carpets, paintings, and furnishings from fading. This is especially useful if you have windows that are exposed to direct sunlight for the majority of the day.

Another reason that homeowners decide to have their older sash windows retrofitted with double glazing is that they are a lot less expensive than installing new windows. The cladding, internal linings and opening mechanisms of your existing windows are not damaged, so the job is much less intrusive.

As an added bonus as an added benefit, the process of installing double glazed windows is much faster than taking out and replacing a window in its entirety. This means that you will enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency and enhanced security, as well as less the glare and UV damage on your furnishings at a lower cost.

Take the Glass off

Double glazed windows are different from single pane windows as they feature two glass panes that are separated by an air layer and an air spacer. This creates insulation. The IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU) can be filled with gases such as Krypton or argon to provide more insulation. Over time, these units can be damaged and cease to perform properly. In the event of this it's crucial to get rid of the broken glass as fast and safely as possible.

It can be difficult to replace double-glazed windows on your own. You'll need specialist tools and knowledge. It is best to delegate this task to a professional, who will make use of the appropriate safety equipment and follow the correct procedure to avoid injuries.

This is particularly important since double-glazed windows are fragile and easy to break or even crack. To protect yourself while repairing your window, wear gloves that are protective and wear a mask or respirator. You should also make sure that the area around the frame is clean and free of debris. Finally, you should place a thick sheet of plastic over the area that will be shaved by the deglazing tool to capture the fragments of glass that are broken and make it easier to remove them.

Aside from replacing broken glass, it's also important to check for indications that your double-glazed windows aren't working correctly. A window that is draughty is one of the most frequent signs that your IGU has burst and isn't providing adequate insulation. You can also see if your windows are cloudy, or the presence of condensation between them.

Besides being able to save energy costs Double glazing that is efficient can also help keep your furniture safe from heat and light. Furniture can deteriorate or break if exposed to direct sunlight for an extended duration. A double-glazed window keeps your furniture out of the sun and also reduces the amount of heat entering your home.

Double glazing that is energy efficient can boost the value of your property. Double glazing is a good investment if you plan to sell your house in the future.

Remove the Gaskets

Double glazing is a popular option to improve the efficiency of your home's energy use however, like all other things windows, it is prone to wear and tear. Double-glazed windows that exhibit visible damage, are draughty or are susceptible to condensation need to be repaired or replaced.

A crucial component of the window assembly is the gasket, which is a butyl or neoprene rubber seal that cushions the glazing and offers weather protection. Gasket degradation is a leading cause of leaks, and moisture entering buildings. Fortunately, the seals can be replaced without having to replace the whole window.

Gaskets are often repaired by making them tight and then pulling them out. This is simpler on uPVC frames than on timber or aluminium. If you are unable to remove seals by hand then you can use a builder’s knife to pry the seals apart until it is possible to grasp it using your fingertips. After the seal is removed and replaced, you can replace it with a new seal to ensure a secure fit and maximum effectiveness.

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

After removing the beading, you can take off the glass. The gap between the two panes must be between 12 and 12 millimeters, and it's important to fill it with Argon gas for optimum thermal performance. It is possible to increase the distance between your panes to reduce noise, but this can affect the insulation properties of your windows.

Once the frame is cleaned it is recommended to spray it with window cleaner before installing the DGP. This will prevent the tape from sticking to the glass instantly, giving you time to ensure it's placed correctly. It's also a good idea to wipe the seals with a soft cloth and warm soapy water in order to avoid any damage.

Re-seal the window

If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming cloudy or there is moisture between the panes, then it may be the time to seal them. This type of problem is a clear indication that the seal inside has failed to keep the insulation gases in. This is not uncommon and the rubber that holds in the insulating gas can fail due to age or improper installation.

A window specialist who is experienced will seal the glass unit by putting a new seal around each of the insulating gaps. The technician will use silicone caulk to seal the gaps. This will keep cold winter air out while allowing the warm air inside. The caulk also stops bugs from getting into your home, and will stop moisture from entering your home too.

It is important to note that resealing a double-glazed window is not a DIY project, although it is possible to do it yourself. It is a tedious and time-consuming task that requires specialized tools to remove the caulk that was used, clean the area, then apply the new caulk. It is a good idea to hire an experienced glazier to complete the work to avoid injuries and to ensure that the work is done properly.

In some instances double-glazed windows cannot be repaired and must be completely replaced. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass, significant damage to the frame or serious decay. Ask a double-glazing specialist to determine the best option in these situations.

The misting that occurs on the windows is an indication that the treatment of the glass in the factory has failed. The factory will put a low-emissivity layer on the window to reflect heat and may also inject argon for extra insulation. When these treatments fail, moisture gets to get into the gaps between the glass panes and it could cause condensation. A professional can solve this problem by drilling tiny holes in the glass panes and then pipe in a dehydrating agent to get rid of the moisture. The expert will then fill the gap with a brand new gas that is insulating and seal it, without the gas from escaping.