Why Repairing Double Glazed Windows Is Still Relevant In 2023

Repairing Double Glazed Windows

Double-glazed windows "blow" they let the gas that insulates them, argon, escapes, causing them to decrease their energy efficiency. The good part is that blown double glazing can often be repaired without the need to replace your windows completely.

Condensation or moisture in between your double glazed windows is the most common indication that the seals on your windows have failed. A professional can fix this, saving you from having to replace your window.

Take off the Sash

Double-glazed windows are a fantastic option to improve the appearance and value of your home. They can improve the energy efficiency of your home by keeping heat and cold out. In Minnesota's winters that are harsh, double-glazed windows can aid in reducing your heating costs.

The main difference between single and double windows is the gas that fills the space between panes of air or argon. This can make a significant difference in the insulation properties of your windows as they block the transfer of heat through the glass. Selecting an inert gas that has a low thermal conductivity, like argon or krypton will help improve the insulation properties of your windows further.

Another benefit of double-glazed windows is that they are more secure than single paned windows. They are more difficult to break and can have modern security locking systems. They can be equipped with toughened or laminated glass to make them more secure. Double-glazed windows are more durable, and less likely than single-glazed ones to shake or vibrate in the wind. They are a great option for older homes.

Double-glazed windows can also be made of low-energy glass which blocks UV rays that enter your home. This can help ensure that your carpets, paintings and furniture from becoming faded. This can be particularly beneficial for windows that are in direct sunlight for much of the day.

Retrofitting an old sash window with double glazing is cheaper than buying new windows. The interior linings, cladding, and opening mechanisms of your current windows remain intact, so the job is much less invasive.

As an added bonus the installation of double-glazed windows is much quicker than removing and replacing a window in its entirety. This means you can enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency, Repairing Double Glazed Windows improved security, and less glare and UV damage to your furnishings for a much lower price.

Take the Glass off

Double-glazed windows differ from single pane windows because they have two glass panes, separated by an air layer and a spacer. This provides insulation. This is known as an insulated unit (IGU) which is filled with gases like Krypton or argon, can provide even better insulation. These units may become damaged as time passes and stop functioning 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'll require specialized tools and knowledge. It is recommended to leave the job to a professional who will employ the correct safety equipment and follow the proper procedure to avoid injury.

This is particularly important since double-glazed windows are very fragile and easily break or crack. To protect yourself while repairing your window glass repairs, put on a pair of protective gloves and wear a mask or respirator. Make sure the area surrounding the window frame is free of debris and clean. Then, you need to put a thick piece of plastic over the frame that will be scored by the deglazing tool to catch pieces of glass that are broken and make it easier for you to take them away.

It's important to check for signs of double-glazed windows that aren't functioning properly. Draughty windows are one of the most obvious signs that your IGU has blown and no longer provides proper insulation. You can also see if your windows are cloudy or if there is condensation between them.

Double glazing is not just a way to save money on energy bills but also protects furniture from heat and light. Furniture can break and fade if exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. However, a double-glazed window will keep your furnishings out of direct sunlight and reduce the amount of heat that enters into your home.

Apart from being a great way to save on energy costs, efficient double glazing can also boost the value of your property. Installing double glazing is a great investment if you are planning to sell your house in the near future.

Remove the Gaskets

Double glazing is an excellent method of increasing the energy efficiency of your home, but it will wear out over time. Visible damage, draughts and condensation are all indications that it's time to repair timber windows or replace your double-glazed windows.

A key part of the window assembly is the gasket, a neoprene or butyl rubber seal that cushions the glazing and offers weather protection. Gasket degrading is the primary cause of leaks, and water entering buildings. Fortunately, the seals can be replaced without having to replace the entire window.

Gaskets can be repaired by making them tight and pulling them out. This is easier to do on uPVC frames than on aluminum or timber. If you're unable remove the seals manually it's best to use a knife to pry away the seal until you can grip it using your fingers. After the seal is removed, you can apply the new seal to ensure an even tighter fit and maximum effectiveness.

After the seals have been replaced the window beading will need to be removed. You can use a putty or lead knife to remove the window beading. Insert the blade between the frame and the bead at the middle of longest bead. This will give you the maximum leverage to remove the bead from the frame.

After removing the beading, you can take off the window glass. The gap between the two panes should be about 12mm and it is important to fill this space with Argon gas for optimum thermal performance. It is possible to increase the distance between your panes to reduce noise, however this can affect the insulation properties of your windows.

Once the frame has been cleaned it is a good idea to spray it with window cleaner prior to placing the DGP. This will stop the tape from sticking to the glass in a flash, giving you time to ensure it's placed correctly. To avoid damage, it's recommended to wipe the rubber seals down with a soft rag and a warm soapy liquid.

Re-seal the Window

If you notice that your double glazed windows are fogging up or there is water between the panes then it may be time to replace them. These kinds of issues are a clear sign that the seal in the interior is failing to keep the gas that is used to insulate. It is not unusual to find the rubber seal that holds in the insulating gases to break down as time passes or due to improper installation.

A window specialist who is experienced will seal each gap by applying a new seal. The technician will then fill in the gaps with silicone caulk. This will keep cold winter air out and the warm indoor air inside. This caulk can stop insects from getting into your home and also prevent moisture from entering.

It is important to note that resealing a double-glazed window is not a DIY project, although it is possible to do it yourself. It is a tedious and time-consuming task that requires specialized tools to get rid of the caulk that was used, clean the area, and apply a new caulk. It is a good idea to hire an experienced glazier to complete the work to avoid injuries and to ensure that it is done properly.

In some cases double-glazed windows cannot be repaired and must be replaced completely. This could be because of cracked or broken glasses, extensive damage to the frame or severe decay. Talk to a double-glazing professional to determine the best option in these situations.

The misting that occurs on the windows is a sign 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 may also pump in argon for extra insulation. If these treatments fail, water can be introduced into the gap between the glass panes and cause condensation. A professional can solve this issue by drilling tiny holes in the glass panes and piping in a dehydrating agent to remove the moisture. The expert will then fill the gap with a new gas insulating the area and seal it, without the gas from escaping.