Repairing Double Glazed Windows

When double-glazed windows "blow" they let the insulating gas argon escapes, causing them to lose their energy efficiency. The good thing is that damaged double glazing is typically repaired without needing to replace the windows.

Moisture or condensation in between your double glazed windows is a typical sign that the seals on your windows have failed. This can be easily repaired by a professional which will save you the cost of a replacement window.

Take off the Sash

Double-glazed windows can add value and elegance to your home. They improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping the cold and heat out. Double-glazed windows can help you reduce your heating costs in Minnesota's winters that are brutal.

The main distinction between single and double glazed windows is that the space between the panes of glass is filled with air or an inert gas, such as argon. This is a significant improvement to the insulation properties of your windows since they block the transfer of heat through the glass. Choosing an inert gas with low thermal conductivity such as argon or krypton which can help increase the insulation properties of your windows further.

Another benefit of double-glazed windows is that they are more secure than single paned windows. They are harder to break and can be fitted with modern security locking systems. They can be fitted with toughened or laminated glass to make them more secure. Double glazed windows are more durable and less likely to rattle in the wind or from vibrations from heavy traffic, making them a good choice for older homes.

Additionally, double-glazed windows can be constructed with low energy glass, which can reduce UV rays entering your home. This can help protect your furnishings, carpets and paintings from becoming faded. This is especially useful if you have windows that are directly in the sunlight for the majority of the day.

The other reason that homeowners opt to have their older sash windows retrofitted with double glazing is that they are a lot more affordable than installing new windows. The cladding, internal linings and double glazing opening mechanisms of your current windows remain intact, so the job is much less intrusive.

As an added bonus the installation of double glazed windows is much quicker than removing and replacing a complete window. This means you get the benefits of energy-efficiency and security enhancement, as well as reduced glare, and UV damage to your furnishings at a lower cost.

Take the Glass off

Double-glazed windows differ from single pane windows as they feature two glass panes that are separated by an air layer and a spacer. This provides insulation. This IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU) can be filled with gases like Krypton or argon for better insulation. These units are susceptible to being damaged as time passes and stop functioning correctly. It is important to remove any broken glass as safe and swiftly as you can.

It isn't easy to replace double-glazed windows on your own. You will need specialised tools and experience. It is best to leave this job to a professional, who will employ the correct safety equipment and follow the right procedure to avoid injuries.

It is important to take this precaution because double-glazed windows can be very fragile and can easily crack or break. Wear a respirator or gloves and mask to safeguard yourself when working on the window doctor. Make sure that the area around the window frame is free of any debris and clean. Finally, you should put a thick piece of plastic over the area that will be scored by the deglazing tool to catch the fragments of broken glass and make it easier for you to take them away.

It is important to look for indications that double-glazed windows aren't functioning properly. A draughty window is one of the most frequent signs that your IGU has blown and is no longer able to provide the proper insulation. It is also possible to determine the windows are cloudy or whether there is condensation between them.

Double glazing isn't just a way to save money on energy bills but also protects furniture from heat and light. Furniture can deteriorate and break when exposed to sunlight for long periods of time, however a double-glazed window will keep your furniture out of direct sunlight and reduce the amount of heat that is brought into your home.

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

Remove the Gaskets

Double glazing is a great method of increasing the energy efficiency of your home, however it can wear out over time. Visible damage, draughts and condensation are all indicators that it's time for you to repair or replace your double glazed windows.

A key part of the window assembly is the gasket, which is a butyl or neoprene rubber seal that cushions the glass and offers weather protection. Deterioration of the gaskets is the main reason for leaks as well as the infiltration of moisture into buildings. The seals can be easily replaced without needing to replace the entire window.

Most often, gaskets can be repaired by pinching and pulling them off. This is much easier on uPVC frames than on aluminium or timber. If you're unable to remove seals by hand then you can use a builder’s knife to pry the seals apart until you are able to grasp it with your fingers. After the seal is removed and replaced, you'll be able to replace it with a brand new seal to ensure a tight fit and maximum efficiency.

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

After removing the beading you can remove the glass. The gap between the two panes must be about 12mm and it's important to fill it with Argon gas to ensure optimal thermal performance. It is possible to increase the gap between your panes to reduce noise, but this can affect the insulation properties of your windows.

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

Re-seal the window

It may be time to seal your double-glazed windows if you notice that they are fogged up or have moisture between them. These kinds of issues are a clear sign that the inner seal is failing to keep the gas that is used to insulate. This is not unusual and the rubber that holds in the insulating gas may break down due to wear and tear or improper installation.

A window specialist who is experienced will seal the glass unit by placing an entirely new seal around each of the individual gaps of insulation. The technician will apply a silicone caulk to seal the gaps. This will keep cold winter air out and the warm indoor air in. The caulk will also prevent bugs from getting into your home, and will stop moisture from entering your home as well.

Re-sealing double-glazed windows is not a DIY-friendly task. But it is doable. This is a lengthy and laborious task that requires special tools to remove the old seal, clean up the area, and then apply a fresh caulk. It is a good idea to get a professional glazier to do the work to avoid injuries and to ensure it is done correctly.

There are certain situations where a double-glazed window will not be repairable and will have to be replaced. This could include cracked or shattered glass, extensive damage to the frame, or severe decay. Ask a double-glazing specialist to determine the best solution for these scenarios.

The misting that occurs on 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. Additionally, it might inject an argon gas to provide additional insulation. When these treatments fail, moisture gets to get into the gaps between the glass panes and it can cause condensation. A professional can fix this problem by drilling tiny holes in the glass panes and injecting a dehydrating agent to get rid of the moisture. The expert will then fill the gap with a new insulating gas and seal it up without let any gas escape.