Repairing Double Glazed Windows

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

Condensation or moisture in between your double glazed windows is the most common indication that the seals on your windows have failed. This can be easily fixed by a professional, saving you the expense of a replacement window.

Take off the Sash

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

The main difference between single and double windows is that the gap between panes of glass is filled with air or an inert gas like argon. This can make a huge difference to your windows' insulation capabilities because it blocks heat from moving through the glass. Selecting an inert gas that has a low thermal conductivity, such as argon or Krypton, helps to increase your window's insulating properties even more.

Another benefit of having double-glazed windows is that they are much more secure than single pane windows. They are more difficult to break and can have modern security locking systems installed. They can be equipped with toughened or laminated glass to make them more secure. Double-glazed windows are more durable and less prone to sway in the wind or due to the impact of traffic which makes them a great choice for older homes.

In addition, double glazed windows can be made with low-energy glass that reduces UV rays entering your home. This can help protect your carpets, paintings, and furnishings from fading. This is especially important if you have windows that are directly in the sunlight for the majority of the time of the day.

Another reason why homeowners decide to have their old sash windows retrofitted with double glazing is that they are a lot more affordable than installing new windows. The linings and cladding of your existing windows are still intact and make the work less invasive.

As an added bonus as an added benefit, the process of installing double glazed windows is much faster than removing and replacing a whole window. That means that you can enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency, enhanced security and reduced glare and UV damage to your furnishings at a lower cost.

Take the Glass off

As opposed to single pane windows double glazed windows have two glass panes that are separated by a spacer and layer of air that acts as insulation. The IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU) can be filled with gases like Krypton or argon to provide more insulation. As time passes, these units can become damaged and fail to perform as they should. It is important to remove any broken glass as safely and efficiently as is possible.

It can be difficult to replace double-glazed windows on your own. You'll need specialist tools and expertise. It is best to delegate the job to a professional who will use the right safety equipment and follow the correct procedure to avoid injury.

It is essential to take this precaution because double-glazed windows are extremely fragile and are prone to break or crack. Wear a respirator or mask and gloves to protect yourself while repairing the window. It is also important to ensure that the area around the frame is free of debris. Then, you need to put a thick piece of plastic over the frame which will be cut by the deglazing tool to capture the pieces of broken glass and make it easier for you to remove them.

In addition to replacing broken glass, it's essential to look for signs that your double glazed windows aren't working correctly. A window that is draughty is one of the most obvious signs that your IGU is blown and is no longer providing adequate insulation. It is also possible to determine the windows are cloudy, or if there is condensation between them.

Apart from being able to save energy costs, having efficient double glazing can also help protect your furnishings from heat and light. Furniture can deteriorate or Double Glazing break if it is exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time. Double-glazed windows keep your furniture safe from the sun and reduces the amount of heat entering your home.

Apart from being a great method to cut down on electricity costs, efficient double glazing can also increase the value of your home. If you're planning to sell your home in the near future, having double glazing installed is a great investment that could draw potential buyers.

Remove the gaskets

Double glazing is a popular choice to improve your home's energy efficiency however, as with all things, it can be prone to wear and tear. Visible damage, draughts and condensation are all indicators that it's time to repair or replace your double-glazed windows.

A key part of the window assembly is the gasket, a butyl or neoprene rubber seal that cushions the glass and provides weather protection. Gaskets that are damaged are the most common reason for leaks as well as water infiltration into buildings. These seals can be easily replaced without needing to replace the entire window.

Gaskets are often repaired by pressing them down and pulling them out. It is much easier to repair uPVC frames than aluminum or timber. If you're unable remove the seals by hand It's a good idea to use a knife to remove the seal until you are able to grasp it using your fingers. After the seal is removed, you can put in a new seal for an even tighter fit and maximum effectiveness.

Once the seals have been replaced the window beading has 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 bead, in the middle of the longest bead. This will give you the most leverage to remove the bead from the frame.

After removing the beading, you can take off the window glass. The gap between the two panes should be about 12mm and it's crucial to fill it with Argon gas for optimum thermal performance. A larger gap can be used to lower noise levels however it can reduce the insulation performance of your windows.

It's a great idea to spray the window cleaner on the frame after it has been cleaned. This will assist in helping the DGP stick better. This will prevent the tape from adhering to the glass instantly and will allow you to ensure it's placed correctly. It's also a good idea to wipe the seals with an absorbent cloth and warm soapy water in order to avoid any damage.

Seal the window

If you notice that your double-glazed windows are getting 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 inner seal has failed to keep the insulating gases in. It is not uncommon for the rubber seal that holds in the gases that are insulating to break down as time passes or due to improper installation.

A professional window specialist will reseal each individual gap by applying a fresh seal. The technician will fill the gaps with silicone caulk. This will keep cold winter air out and the warm air inside. The caulk also stops bugs from getting into your home and it will stop moisture from getting into your home, too.

It is important to note that resealing an existing double-glazed window is not a DIY project but it is feasible to tackle it yourself. This is a lengthy and laborious job that requires specialized tools to get rid of the old seal, clean up the area, and then apply new caulk. To avoid injury and ensure the job is done correctly it is recommended to employ a professional perform the task.

In some instances, a double-glazed glass window cannot be repaired and must be replaced completely. This could be due to broken or cracked glass, extensive damage to the frame or severe rot. It is a good idea to consult a double glazing expert to find out what the best solution is in these circumstances.

The misting of windows is often an indication of a poor treatment of the glass at the factory. The factory will treat the window with a low emissivity coating to reflect heat away, and it might inject the gas argon to provide insulation. If these treatments fail, moisture can be allowed to enter the space between the glass panes and it may cause condensation. A professional can solve this issue by drilling tiny holes into the glass panes and piping in an agent that dehydrates to eliminate the moisture. They then fill the hole with a new insulating gas and seal the gap, but without letting the gas escape.