Repairing Double Glazed Windows

When double-glazed windows "blow", the gas that insulates them, argon, escapes, causing them reduce their energy efficiency. The good part is that blown double glazing is often repaired without having to replace your windows completely.

The most typical sign of a damaged window seal is moisture or condensation between double-glazed windows. A professional can easily fix this issue, thereby preventing you from needing to replace the window.

Take off the Sash

Double-glazed windows can add value and elegance to your home. They can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping the heat and cold out. Double-glazed windows can help you save money on heating bills during Minnesota's cold winters.

The main difference between single and double windows is that the gap between the panes of glass is filled with air or an inert gas, such as the gas argon. This makes a huge difference to the insulating properties of your windows since they block the transfer of heat through the glass. Selecting an inert gas with low thermal conductivity, such as argon or Krypton which can help increase your window's insulating properties even more.

Double-glazed windows are also more secure than single-paned windows. They are harder to break and can have modern security locking systems. They can also be fitted with toughened or laminated glass, making them even more secure. Double-glazed windows are more sturdy and less prone to sway in the wind or from vibrations from heavy traffic, making them a good choice for older homes.

In addition, double glazed windows can be made with low energy glass, which can reduce the UV rays entering your home. This will protect your carpets, paintings, and furnishings from fading. This is especially important when you have windows that are in direct sunlight for the majority of the time.

Retrofitting an old sash window with double glazing is also cheaper than buying new windows. The exterior linings, cladding and opening mechanisms of the existing windows are still in place, which means the job is much less invasive.

In addition, the installation of double-glazed windows is much faster than the process of removing and replacing a window in its entirety. That means that you can benefit from energy efficiency, increased security, and less glare as well as UV damage to your furniture at a lower cost.

Take the Glass off

As opposed to single pane windows double-glazed windows have two glass panes separated by a spacer and layer of air which provides insulation. This IGU, also known as an insulated glass unit (IGU) can be filled with gases such as argon or krypton for even better insulation. These units can become damaged over time and cease to function properly. It is essential to remove any broken glass as safe and quickly as possible.

It can be difficult to replace double-glazed windows on your own. You will need specialised tools and expertise. It is best to delegate this task to a professional who will employ the correct safety equipment and follow the right procedure to avoid injury.

This is particularly important as double glazed windows can be extremely fragile and can easily break or crack. Wear a respirator or mask and gloves to protect yourself when repairing the window. You should also make sure that the area around the frame is clean and free of debris. It is also recommended to place a thick piece of plastic over the place where the deglazing tool will cut to capture any broken pieces of glass and make them easier to remove.

It's important to check for signs of double-glazed windows that aren't working properly. A window that is draughty is one of the most frequent signs that your IGU is blowing and isn't providing proper insulation. It is also possible to notice if the windows are cloudy or there is condensation between them.

Double glazing is not just an option to reduce energy costs but also protect your furniture from light and heat. Furniture can fade or break if it is exposed to direct sunlight for an extended time. A double-glazed window keeps your furniture safe from the sun and reduces the amount of heat entering your home.

Apart from being a great option to reduce electric bills, effective double glazing can also enhance the value of your home. If you're looking to sell your home in the near future, having double glazing installed is a good investment that could help attract potential buyers.

Remove the gaskets

Double glazing is an excellent method to boost the energy efficiency of your home, but it is susceptible to wear and tear over time. Double-glazed windows that exhibit visible damage, have draughts or are susceptible to condensation should be repaired or replaced.

The gasket is a key element of the window assembly. It is a neoprene seal that cushions and protects the window from the elements. The deterioration of gaskets is the main reason for leaks and the infiltration of moisture into buildings. Fortunately, these seals can be replaced without replacing the whole window.

Gaskets are often repaired by pressing them down and pulling them out. This is simpler on uPVC frames than on timber or aluminium. If you are unable to remove seals manually then you can use a knife designed for builders to cut the seals apart until you are able to grasp it with your fingertips. Once the seal is removed, you can put in an alternative seal for an even tighter fit and maximum effectiveness.

After the seals are replaced the window beading has to be removed. This can be done using a putty knife or a lead knife. The blade of the knife between the frame and the bead in the middle of the longest bead. This will give you maximum leverage to cut off the frame from the bead.

Once all of the beading has been removed and the window glass is removed, you can remove the glass. The gap between the two panes must be around 12mm, and it's important to fill it with Argon gas for optimum thermal performance. A bigger gap can be used to reduce the sound levels however it will decrease the insulation performance of your windows.

It's a good idea spray the window cleaner on the frame after it has been cleaned. This will assist in helping the DGP stick better. This stops the tape from securing to the glass, and gives you the chance to put it in the right way. To avoid any damage, you should wipe the seals of the rubber using a soft rag and a warm soapy liquid.

Close the Window

If you notice that your double glazed windows are becoming cloudy or you notice that there is condensation between the panes, then it may be the time to seal them. This type of problem is a clear indicator that the seal on the inside has failed to keep the insulation gases in. This is not uncommon and the rubber that holds in the insulating gas can be damaged due to age or improper installation.

A skilled window specialist will reseal each individual gap by applying a new seal. The technician will use silicone caulk to seal the gaps. This will keep cold air out and the warm air in during winter. The caulk will also prevent bugs from entering your home, and will prevent moisture from entering your home as well.

It is important to know that resealing a double glazed window is not a DIY job but it is feasible to tackle it yourself. It is a tedious and time-consuming task that requires specialized tools to remove the caulk that was used, clean the area, and then apply a new caulk. To avoid injury and ensure that the work is done properly it is best to employ a professional do the work.

There are certain situations where a double-glazed window cannot be repaired and must be replaced. This could include broken or cracked glass, significant damage to the frame, or severe rot. Consult a double-glazing expert to determine the best option in these instances.

Oftentimes, the misting of the windows can be an indication that the treatment of the glass in the factory has failed. The factory will apply a low-emissivity layer on the window to reflect heat. It could also inject the argon to provide additional insulation. If these treatments upvc window repairs fail, water can be introduced into the gap between the glass panes and cause condensation. This problem can be fixed by a professional by drilling tiny holes in the glass panes, then pipe in a dehydrating solution to eliminate the moisture. The expert will then fill the gap with a brand new gas insulating the area, and seal it without let any gas escape.