How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is typically covered by a warranty for 10 or 20 years. If your double-glazed windows show signs of aging, you may be eligible to be repaired under warranty.
Double-glazed window repairs require replacing the glass unit that is in use. Misting is a clear sign that the seal is broken and you will need to repair it.
Glass that is damaged
Double pane windows rely on an airtight seal in order to function effectively. Condensation between glass plates is a common sign of a failing seal. Condensation that forms between glass plates is not a major problem and can be fixed however, it's an indication that your glass unit requires replacement. If you have an older double glazed window, this may mean replacing both the glass and the frame. If your frame is in good condition however, you can generally save money by replacing just the glazing.
Glass is brittle and it's not unusual for double-pane windows to crack over time. If the cracks were not caused by mechanical damage, or a jarring impact to the window it is possible to repair them with epoxy and some elbow grease. Start by cleaning over the crack using a moist cotton rag and then apply epoxy to the crack, following the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the epoxy to completely dry before sanding down and painting over the repaired area.
A simple strip of masking tap can also be used to stop cracks from spreading. A single strip of tape on both sides of the damaged area should be enough to prevent superficial cracks, like stress cracks caused by low temperatures, from getting worse. If you notice deeper cracks in your glass that are already present, it is best to contact an expert to repair the damage.
Removing a single pane of double-pane windows is a difficult and dangerous DIY task. Double-pane windows are made as a complete unit and sealed in the factory with inert gas. Therefore, it is impossible to remove the glass without causing damage to the entire window. If you are planning to replace the glass in your double-paned windows, pick a manufacturer with an extensive warranty.
You can also use newspaper to protect the window frame prior to when you remove the sash or replace any broken glass. This will help protect you from any glass shards that could fall in the process. It also helps prevent any damage to the trim or molding of your home.
Condensation Build-Up
The good fact is that condensation between window panes is totally normal. This is caused by an imbalance in temperature and humidity of the air. The water vapour that is present in air condenses when it comes into contact with cold, inaccessible surfaces like windows. This is generally a good thing during winter because it stops heat loss.
However, if you're finding that your windows are appearing cloudy with a film of moisture on them, it's time to hire an expert glazier. This is an indication that the air gap' seal between the two panes of glass is beginning to break down and is letting moisture into the window.
You can stop this from happening by using dehumidifiers, improving ventilation, or by applying de-icing agents. There are companies that can remove excess moisture from double-glazed windows through drilling into the frame and injecting desiccant. This requires removal of the sealed unit from the frame and cleaning each glass pane before refilling the desiccant. This is typically more expensive, however it is worth checking whether the company you use is fully insured and registered with FENSA.
It's important to remember that tampering with your double-glazed windows is not advised and will invalidate any guarantees. If you have a guarantee on your windows it's always best to let the company know of any issues that arise since it will be accountable for the replacement of windows that are covered under warranty. Additionally, any damage that is caused by tampering is likely not be covered by your warranty either, so it is recommended to seek advice from a professional before trying any DIY repairs. This is especially applicable to older units, as they are sometimes more prone to fail. It is recommended to replace the entire glass panel in case this happens. You'll then have brand new windows that will last for many years to come.
Scratches
It's not unusual for double glazed windows to be affected by scratches on their surfaces. This can be a result of environmental factors or even caused by the way the window was installed.
Fortunately, the majority of these scratches are not too severe and can be easily repaired by using a few home remedies that you can do yourself. If your windows are scratched to the extent where you can feel the scratch with your finger it is best to seek out a professional for help to ensure that the glass is restored to its original state.
These scratches are caused by objects like tree branches, pet nails, and cleaning materials that are abrasive scratch the glass of your windows. These scratches can often be removed by using non-abrasive products like iron oxide and polishes made from cerium dioxide. You'll need to use these until the scratch disappears.
Scratches can also be caused by sanding the wood trim on your windows. They can also occur during construction work. These scratches may be difficult for you to fix. However, a mix of baking soda and water can aid in smoothing out the buffed surface and remove any remaining scratch.
For more extensive scratches, you can use polish for metal to smooth the area and remove scratches. Add a small amount of the product to a microfibre ball or cotton cloth and gently rub the affected area in an upward motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure since this could exacerbate any further damage to the glass. After the area has been smoothed out, use a wet cloth to wash away any polish residue left.
If you've got a deep scratch that you can't seem to remove, consider buying a special non-abrasive glass polish. This can be bought at any DIY store and should be applied according to the directions on the packaging. Alternately, you can apply nail polish to smooth the area and cover any minor scratches on your window glass. Make sure the nail polish is clean and is only applied to the scuffed part of your window.
Haze
The presence of haze in the double-paned windows indicates that the seal between the two panes is broken. This needs to be fixed immediately so that moisture and dirt are not able to accumulate between the glass panes. This could cause damage to the glass and decrease its transparency.
There are many methods to get rid of the haze that has formed on double pane windows. One option is to use a defogging spray. However, this is just a temporary solution. If you want a permanent solution, you should consult an experienced glass company. They can repair the problem or replace the gaskets if required.
Another method to eliminate the problem of haze in double-glazed windows is to make small holes in the window frame, using a carbide-tipped drill. You can then tuck in a desiccate bag into these holes and rinse the window with ruby alcohol. The water will help remove the haze and cleanse the window.
It's essential to ensure that your windows are maintained and regularly cleaned to prevent fogging. This will keep your double panes clear and
double Glazing allow you to enjoy the beautiful view of your backyard or home. It is also important to ensure that your home has adequate ventilation. This will help to ensure that any condensation is swiftly eliminated, rather than being allowed to settle and reseal the
window doctor.
It is not enough to clean and maintain your windows frequently and make sure that they are installed correctly. Installing your windows should only be performed by a company that has expertise.