Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs

Double glazing can help keep the temperature of a home warm, but it may also develop problems with time. Issues like leaks, broken glass or foggy windows may lead to loss of energy efficiency, expensive repairs, and even health problems.

FENSA certified installers can assist you maintain and repair your double glazing to meet energy efficiency requirements to ensure compliance with the law and the resale value.


Broken Panes

A damaged window can cause a lot of issues, since it could block light, air, and even pests. While you could certainly hire a professional to replace the broken pane however, you could also fix the problem yourself for only a fraction of the cost.

To do this, you'll need to remove the old pane. Begin by putting on protective glasses, work gloves and a dust mask to protect yourself from glass shards and lead dust. Install a sturdy surface that is well ventilated. Place repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk on the work surface to collect any glass that falls when you remove it. It is recommended to have an HEPA vacuum nearby to clean dust, debris and hazardous waste when you work.

Use a utility blade to scrape the old glazing putty off once the old window has been removed. Be careful not damage the wooden frame of the window. If the old putty has difficulty coming off, you can use the heat gun to soften it. Be sure to wear safety glasses when working with a heat gun, and take care to avoid getting any hot wood shards or glass pieces in your eyes.

The next step is to prepare the frame for the new pane. To take into account wood expansion and contraction take the opening measurement and subtract one sixteenth inch in both directions. The hardware store in your area can cut an inch of double strength glass to exactly fit the opening. Before you install the new glass dry-fit it for an ideal fit.

Once you have the new glass in place, lay a small amount of latex caulk around edge of the opening to provide a good weather seal. Install the glazing points to secure the new pane. In general, you will only require two points on each side for typical sizes of window glass.

Once the new coating has dried, you can paint over it to match the rest of the frame. If you are concerned about cracks, you can use a strong masking tape to prevent cracks that appear superficial from getting worse.

Frames that are damaged

You should examine the frame first. If there are cracks, corrosion, or rust or the frame has split into two pieces, you will need to take it to a repair professional. Metal frames aren't able to be glued together, and attempting to weld or solder them yourself can cause permanent damage.

If the frame is not damaged, you can use a small brush and a bit of conservation detergent or water to wash the frame carefully. This will eliminate any dust, grease or dirt that has built up over time. A careful cleaning of old frames with intricate carvings or gesso can reveal the original shine beneath the layers of dust.

If the frame is damaged, you'll require a pair needle-nosed pliers, wood putty and sandpaper, as well with a small clamp. Start by getting rid of the glass, picture and the back of the frame. Take care to remove the frame at the corners where there are brads or nails. If possible, you can open the joints, scrape off any glue that is old and apply new glue.

Loose Compound

The glazing compound that is used to hold glass window panes in their wooden frames is a vital component of any building's energy efficiency. It seals wood, bonds glass to frame and sheds water to protect it caused by water over time. Cracks or gaps in this compound cause air infiltration, which reduces the insulation value and can increase utility bills. Making sure you are keeping up with repairs on your double-glazed windows helps keep them operating smoothly and efficiently.

If you notice that there are drafts around the edges of your window frames The weatherstripping seal might be worn-out or loose. Replacing this seal will reduce energy bills and improves the comfort of your home. If you hear loud sounds outside, such as machinery or traffic, this could mean that the tape on the glass is worn out.

Remove the old tape from around the edge of the frame and clean the area thoroughly. Apply a new piece of tape to the edge of the frame and press it down firmly. You can buy this at any hardware store, and it's an inexpensive option to boost the performance of double-glazed windows.

While the standard super glues work well for bonding wood, metal and other commonly used materials, they're not ideal for use on glass-based surfaces. Look for a glass based adhesive such as Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of glue has been formulated to resist UV light and moisture making it the best choice for repairing double-glazed windows.

It is necessary to apply a degreaser on the exterior of your window frame and sash prior to when you begin repairing it. This will ensure that the new adhesive sticks properly. Then prepare the area that will be glazed by applying an oil-based primer. Be sure to prime the entire surface including the back of the sash where it rests within the frame.

You can repair most double-glazed window problems however, if the windows are severely damaged, or if they no longer provide adequate insulation, replacing them could be the best option. Get a professional glazier or handyman to make the best decision. Regular inspection and maintenance of your windows will help them look their best and function smoothly for years to come.

Foggy Panes

Foggy windows happen when the window seal is damaged allowing air to pass between glass panes, and then slowly build up moisture. Foggy windows can cause many issues, ranging from calcium deposits and condensation to black staining or fungus. In addition to looking ugly and causing a decrease in efficiency in energy use and more expensive heating or cooling costs. It is, however, possible to resolve the issue. Foggy windows are usually caused by a simple water buildup, so the initial step is to get rid of as much moisture as is possible. This can be accomplished by applying a defogging spray or shaving cream. If none of these solutions work, it's time to get an expert.

The reason double pane windows function is due to the space between them. This space is often filled with argon or krypton, which are non-toxic gasses that are more dense than air, and can hinder heat transfer even more. If the gas has escaped this means that your windows aren't insulated as they ought to be. Installing new windows and replacing them with IGUs will not only fix the fogging but restore your home's energy efficiency too.

Some homeowners believe that they must replace the entire window when fogging occurs, however this isn't the case in all cases. In fact, some glass shops will offer to replace just the insulating glass unit (IGU) without replacing the entire sash or frame. This is a more affordable solution that can be just as effective at fixing your windows.

Although there are a few DIY remedies for window condensation, such as defogging spray or shaving cream but it is advised to seek out a professional to make sure the task is done safely and correctly. A window repair expert will first make holes in the glass, and then inject cleaning solution between the panes. The window repair specialist will clean the stained surface and dry the interior giving back the appearance and function of the window. To learn more about this process or to schedule a no-pressure consultation at home, call a local expert in window replacement and repair.