Repairing Double Glazed Windows

Double-glazed windows "blow", insulating argon escapes causing the window to lose energy efficiency. The good thing is that double glazing is often repaired without the need to replace your windows completely.

Condensation or moisture in between your double glazed windows is the most common sign that the seals on your windows are failing. A professional can easily fix this issue, thereby preventing you from having to replace the window.

Take off the Sash

Double-glazed windows are an excellent option to add style and value to your home. They can improve the efficiency of your home's energy use by keeping the cold and heat out. In Minnesota's winters that are harsh, having double glazed windows will aid in reducing your heating costs.

The primary difference between single and double windows is the gas that fills the space between the panes of argon or air. This is a significant improvement in the insulation properties of your windows because they prevent the transfer of heat through the glass. Choosing an inert gas with low thermal conductivity such as argon or Krypton, helps to increase the insulation properties of your windows more.

Double-glazed windows are also more secure than single-paned windows. They are less secure and resistant to breaking. They can also be fitted with modern security locking systems. They can be fitted with toughened or laminated glass to make them even safer. Double-glazed windows are more sturdy and less prone to sway in the wind or because of the impact of traffic and are a good option for older homes.

Double-glazed windows can also be constructed of low-energy glass which reduces the UV rays entering your home. This can help ensure that your carpets, paintings and furniture from becoming faded. This is especially beneficial if your windows are in direct sunlight for a large portion of the day.

Another reason why homeowners decide to have their old sash windows retrofitted to double glazing is that they are less expensive than installing new windows. The linings and cladding of your existing windows are in good condition which makes the task easier to complete.

As an added bonus as an added benefit, the installation of double glazed windows is a lot faster than removing and replacing a complete window. This means you get the benefits of energy-efficiency, enhanced security, reduced the glare and UV damage on your furnishings at a lower cost.

Remove the Glass

Double-glazed windows differ from single pane windows as they are made up of two glass panes that are separated by an air layer and the spacer. This provides insulation. This IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU) can be filled with gases such as Krypton or argon to provide more insulation. These units can become damaged over time and cease to function correctly. It is important to remove any broken glass as safely and quickly as possible.

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

This is particularly important as double-glazed windows can be very fragile and easily break or crack. Wear a respirator or mask and gloves to safeguard yourself when working on the window. Make sure the area surrounding the window frame is clean and free of debris. Then, you need to put a thick layer of plastic over the area that will be scored by the deglazing tool to capture the fragments of glass that have broken and make it easier to remove them.

It's important to check for signs of double-glazed windows that aren't working correctly. A draughty window is one of the most common symptoms that your IGU has blown and isn't providing proper insulation. You may also notice that the windows are cloudy or have condensation between them.

Apart from saving money on energy bills, having efficient double glazing can also help safeguard your furniture from heat and light. Furniture can deteriorate or break if it is exposed to direct sunlight for an extended time. Double-glazed windows keep your furniture safe from the sun and also reduces the amount of heat that enters your home.

Aside from being a good option to reduce electricity costs, efficient double glazing can also increase the value of your property. If you're looking to sell your home in the near future, having double glazing installed is a great investment that can draw prospective buyers.

Remove the gaskets

Double glazing is a popular option to improve your home's energy efficiency however, like all other things, it can be prone to wear and wear and tear. Double-glazed windows that exhibit visible damage, have draughts or are prone to condensation must be fixed or replaced.

A crucial component of the window assembly is the gasket, a butyl or neoprene seal that cushions the glass and provides weather protection. Gasket wear is a major cause of leaks, and moisture getting into buildings. Fortunately, these seals can be replaced without replacing the entire window replacement.

Gaskets can be repaired by making them tight and pulling them out. It is much easier to repair uPVC frames than timber or aluminum. If you are unable to remove seals manually then you can use a knife designed for builders to cut the seals apart until it is possible to grasp it with your fingertips. After the seal has been removed, you can apply an alternative seal for an even tighter fit and maximum effectiveness.

After the seals have been replaced and the window beading is replaced, it must be removed. This can be done with either a putty knife, or a lead knife. Insert the blade between the frame and the bead at the middle of longest bead. This will give you the maximum leverage to separate the bead from the frame.

After you have removed the beading you can remove the glass. The gap between the two panes must be around 12mm, and it is 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's a good idea to spray the frame with window cleaner prior to fitting the DGP. This will prevent the tape from securing to the glass, giving you the chance to place it in the right way. It's also a good idea to wipe the seals with a soft cloth and warm soapy water in order to avoid any damage.

Close the Window

It is possible to seal your double-glazed windows when you notice that they're fogged up or have moisture between them. These types of problems are a clear indication that the inner seal isn't keeping the gas insulating. It is not uncommon for the seal made of rubber that holds in the gases that are insulating to degrade as time passes or due to inadequate installation.

A skilled window specialist will seal the glass unit by placing the new seal over each of the individual insulating gaps. The technician will use a silicone caulk to fill the gaps. This will keep winter cold air out and the warm air inside. The caulk will also prevent bugs from getting into your home, and will prevent moisture from entering your home, too.

It is important to note that resealing a double-glazed window is not a DIY job however it is possible to tackle it yourself. It is a laborious and time-consuming job that requires special tools to get rid of the caulk that was used, clean the area, and then apply a new caulk. To prevent injury and to ensure the job is done correctly it is recommended to hire a professional to perform the task.

In some cases double-glazed glass windows cannot be repaired and will need to be replaced completely. This could be due to cracked or shattered glass, extensive damage to the frame or double glazing severe rot. It is recommended to consult with a double glazing expert to find out what the best solution is in these instances.

The misting of windows is usually a sign of a failed treatment of the glass in the factory. The factory will treat the window with a low-emissivity coating to reflect heat away. Additionally, 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 may cause condensation. A professional can address this problem by drilling tiny holes into the glass panes, and then piping in an agent that dehydrates to eliminate the moisture. They will then fill the space with a fresh insulating gas and reseal the gap without letting the gas escape.