How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is usually covered by a warranty for 10 or 20 year. If your double-glazed windows show signs of aging, you could be eligible to be repaired under warranty.
Double-glazed window repair requires re-sealing your existing glass unit. Misting is a clear sign that the seal has failed and you need to repair it.
Glass damaged
A seal that is airtight is crucial for double pane windows to function correctly. The most frequent indication that a seal is failing is condensation forming between the glass plates. Condensation between glass plates is not a major issue and can be resolved, but it's an indication that your glass unit requires replacement. If you have a double-glazed windows that is older, it could be necessary to replace the glass as well as the frame. If your frame is in good shape it is possible to save money by just replacing the glass.
Double-paned windows can crack because of the fragility of glass. If the cracks were not caused by mechanical damage or an unusual impact on the window, they can be repaired with epoxy and elbow grease. Begin by cleaning the cracked area with a wet cotton rag. Next, apply epoxy to the crack following the instructions of the manufacturer. Allow the epoxy to completely dry before sanding and painting over the repaired area.
A simple strip of masking tap can also be used to stop a crack from spreading. A single strip of masking tape applied to the opposite side of the crack ought to be sufficient to prevent cracks that appear superficial from spreading, such as stress-cracks that are caused by low temperatures. If you notice more severe cracks in your glass that are already present, it is recommended to speak with an expert for repair.
It is dangerous and difficult to replace a single pane within double-paned windows. Double-paned windows are made as a unit and sealed with inert gases in the factory. It is therefore impossible to remove only the glass without damaging the window. If you intend to replace the glass in your double-paned windows pick a manufacturer with a strong warranty.
It's also recommended to cover the window frame with newspaper prior to when you attempt to take off the sash, and then replace any broken glass. This will shield your from any sharp shards of glass that may fall during the process and also help to protect the trim or molding of your home.
Condensation Build-Up
The good part is that condensation occurring between window panes is totally normal. It's caused by a difference between the temperature of the air and humidity levels that cause water vapour to condense when it touches cold impenetrable surfaces such as windows. This is generally a good thing during winter, since it prevents the loss of heat.
However, if you're finding that your windows are appearing cloudy and have a layer of moisture on them, it's time to hire a professional Glazier. This is an indication that the 'air gap' seal between the two panes of glass has begun to weaken and is letting moisture into the window.
You can attempt to stop this by using a dehumidifier or a fan, enhancing ventilation or using a deicing agent. There are also companies that will remove excess moisture from double-glazed windows through drilling into the unit and injecting desiccant. This requires removal of the sealed unit from the frame and cleaning every glass pane before refilling the desiccant. This is typically more expensive, however it's important to ensure that the company you use is fully insured and is registered with FENSA.
Be aware that any modification to your double-glazed windows could invalidate any warranties. If you have a warranty on your windows, it's recommended to let the company be aware of any issues that arise, as they will be responsible for replacing units under warranty. It is best to consult an expert prior to undertaking any DIY repairs. This is especially true for older units, as they are sometimes more prone than newer ones to fail. If this happens, it's probably best to replace the whole glazing panel. Then you'll have brand new windows that will last for many years.
Scratches
It's not uncommon for double-glazed windows to be impacted by scratches on their surfaces. This could be the result of environmental factors or can even be caused by the way the window was installed.
Many of these scratches are superficial, and can be repaired with some home remedies. If you can feel the scratches on your windows with your finger or nail, or if they are deep, you should consult an expert for help in restoring the glass back to its original state.
Superficial scratches are caused by objects scraping against the glass surface of your windows like pet claws, tree branches and abrasive substances used for cleaning. These scratches can often be removed with non-abrasive solutions like iron oxide or polishes made of cerium dioxide. You will need to use these until the scratch disappears.
Scratches can also happen when finishing sanding wood trim close to your windows. They can also occur in the course of construction. These scratches are often difficult for you to repair. However, a mixture of baking soda and water can help smooth out the buffed surface and remove any remaining scratch.
For more extensive scratches you can apply a polishing metal to smooth the area and eliminate the marks. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball, or a clean microfibre towel, and gently rub the area in a circular motion. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can cause further damage to the window. Once the surface is smoothed, use a moist cloth to remove any remaining polish.
You may want to consider purchasing a non-abrasive glass polish if there is a an incredibly deep scratch that you cannot remove. This can be bought at any DIY store and must be applied according to the directions on the packaging. Alternatively, you can use nail polish to smooth the area and cover any minor scratches on the glass of your window. Ensure that the nail polish is clean and that it is only applied to the scratched part of your window.
Haze
Haze in your double pane window is a sign that the airtight seal between the two glass panes has been damaged. This should be repaired immediately so that moisture and dirt do not build up between the glass panes. This could cause damage to the glass and cause the glass's transparency being reduced.
There are many options to remove haze from your double pane windows. One option is to use a spray to defog the windows. This is only a short-term solution. If you're looking for a long-lasting solution, you'll want to seek out a professional glazing company that can fix the issue and replace the gaskets if necessary.
Another way to solve the problem of haze on double-glazed windows is to drill tiny holes into the window frame, using a carbide-tipped drill. Then, you can tuck the desiccate packet inside these holes and wash the window with ruby alcohol. The water will help to remove the haze from the window and clean it.
It's essential to keep your windows well maintained and cleaned regularly to avoid fogging. This will allow you to look through the double panes and enjoy the stunning view from your home or garden. In addition, ensuring that your house is ventilated can also be beneficial. This will ensure that any condensation is swiftly removed, instead of letting it sit and reseal your window.
You should not only clean and maintain your windows frequently, but also ensure that they're installed correctly. Installing windows should only be completed by a glazing company with years of experience. This will help to ensure that the gaskets have been installed properly and have a perfect fit. It is also recommended to get your windows fixed as soon as possible, before they begin to show signs of wear and tear. This will save you from costly double pane window repairs .
Typically, insulated double-glazed windows are designed to last for about 20 years. They are built to withstand different weather conditions such as extreme cold temperatures, heat and humidity as well as frequent openings and closings. But, it is important to keep in mind that the standard time-to-life of double-glazed windows can be diminished by improper installation or faulty materials.