How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Typically, double glazing comes with a guarantee of either 10 or 20 years. If your double-glazed windows begin to show signs of aging, you may be eligible to be fixed under warranty.
Double-glazed window repair Double glazed window requires the re-sealing of your glass unit. Misting is a clear indicator that the seal is broken and you will need to get it repaired.
Damaged Glass
A seal that is airtight is essential for double pane windows to work correctly. Condensation between glass plates is a typical sign of a failing seal. While condensation between glass is not an issue that needs to be addressed, it's usually an indication that the glass unit needs to be replaced. If you have a double-glazed windows that is old, it might be necessary to replace the glass and the frame. If your frame is still in good condition, you may be able to save money by simply replacing the glass.
Glass is brittle and it's not uncommon for double-pane windows to crack over time. If the cracks weren't caused by mechanical damage or a sudden impact on the window it is possible to repair them with epoxy and some elbow grease. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer and scrub the crack with a moist cotton cloth. Then apply the epoxy to the crack. Allow the epoxy to dry completely before sanding and painting over the repaired area.
A simple strip of masking tape can also be used to prevent cracks from spreading. A single strip of masking tape placed on both sides of the crack should suffice to stop superficial cracks from spreading, such as stress-cracks caused by low temperatures. If you notice deeper cracks in your glass that are already present, it's best to contact an expert for repair.
Removing a single pane of double-pane glass is a difficult and dangerous DIY task. Double-pane windows are made as a whole unit and sealed in the factory using inert gas, so it's impossible to remove the glass without damaging the entire window. If you plan to replace the glass in your double-pane windows, ensure that you choose a reputable brand that comes with a strong warranty.
You can also use newspaper to shield the window frame before you remove the sash or replace any broken glass. This will protect yourself from sharp shards of glass that may fall on the way and also help to protect the trim or molding of your home.
Condensation Build-Up
The good fact is that condensation between window panes is normal. It's due to a gap between air temperature and humidity levels and causes water vapour to condense upon contact with cold impenetrable surfaces such as windows. This is usually a good thing, especially in winter as it prevents loss of heat.
If your windows appear cloudy and have a layer of water on them, you should call a professional glazier. This indicates that the seal between the two panes has begun to degrade and allows moisture to enter the window.
You can stop this from happening by using a dehumidifier, improving ventilation or using a deicing agent. Additionally, there are specialists who can fix condensation build-up in double glazed windows by drilling holes into the window and injecting or pumping special desiccant in order to eliminate the excess moisture. This requires removing the sealed unit from the frame and then cleaning every glass pane before refilling the desiccant. This is typically a more expensive option but it's worth checking that any company you select is insured and is registered with FENSA.
Be aware that altering your double-glazed windows will cause the windows to be void of any warranties. 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 units covered under warranty. Also, any damage incurred by tampering is likely not be covered under your warranty, so it's better to seek out expert advice prior to making any DIY fixes. This is especially true for older units as they can sometimes be more prone to failure. If this happens, it's probably best to replace the whole glass panel. The result will be brand new windows that will last for many years.
Scratches
It is not uncommon for double-glazed windows to be affected by scratches on their surface. This can be a result of environmental conditions or even caused by the manner in which the window was initially installed.
Most scratches are not that severe and can be repaired by using a few home solutions. If your windows have been scratched to the extent where you can feel them with your fingernail it is best to seek out a professional for help to ensure that the glass surface is restored to its original form.
Superficial scratches result from objects scraping against the glass surfaces of your windows like tree branches, pet claws and abrasive substances used for cleaning. These scratches can often be removed with non-abrasive solutions like iron oxide and cerium dioxide polishes. You'll need to use these until the scratch disappears.
Scratches can also result from sanding the wood trim around your windows. It can happen during construction work. These scratches are often difficult for you to repair. However, a mix of baking soda and water will aid in smoothing the buffed surface and remove any remaining scratches.
Metal polish can be used to get rid of deep scratches. Add a small amount the product to a cotton ball or clean microfibre cloth and gently rub over the affected area in an upward motion. Avoid applying too much pressure, as this can cause further damage to the window. After the area has been smoothed out then use a moist cloth to clean any polish residue that remains.
If you've got a deep scratch that you can't get rid of, think about purchasing a non-abrasive glass polish. This can be bought at any DIY store and must be applied according to the instructions on the product packaging. Alternatively, you can use nail polish to smooth the area and cover any shallow scratches that your window glass may have. Make sure the nail polish is clean and is only applied to the scuffed part of your window.
Haze
Haze in your double pane window indicates that the airtight seal between the two panes of glass has deteriorated. This needs to be fixed as soon as possible to ensure that moisture and dirt don't build up between the glass panes. This could cause damage to the glass and reduce its transparency.
There are a variety of options to remove the haze on double pane windows. Use a defogging agent. But, this is only an interim solution. If you're looking for a permanent solution, you'll want to contact a professional glazing company that can repair the problem and replace the gaskets, if necessary.
A carbide-tipped tool may be used to drill tiny holes into the window frame to remove the haze. Then, you can insert a desiccate bag into these holes, and then wash the window with rubbing alcohol. The water will help to remove the haze off the window and wash it.
To prevent fogging, it is essential to keep your windows clean and maintain them on a regular basis. This will let you look through the double panes and enjoy the stunning view from your garden or home. In addition, ensuring that your home is ventilated can also be beneficial. This will help to ensure that any condensation is swiftly sucked away, rather than being allowed to settle and reseal the window.
It is important to not just clean and maintain your windows frequently and make sure that they're installed correctly. The installation of your windows should be carried out by a reputable glazing company. This will ensure that the gaskets are fitted correctly and that there is a perfect fit. It is also recommended to get your windows fixed as soon as possible, before they start to show signs of wear and tear. This will help to avoid expensive double pane window repairs.
In general, double-glazed windows that have insulation are built to last for around 20 years. This is because they are designed to withstand all kinds of weather conditions, such as extremely cold temperatures, extreme heat, humidity as well as repeated closing and opening. It is essential to keep in mind that an improper installation or defective material could reduce the life span of double-glazed windows.