5 Glazing Repair Lessons From Professionals
Do-It-Yourself Double Glazing Repairs
Double glazing can keep a home warm but it is susceptible to problems over time. Issues like leaks glass, broken glass or foggy windows may result in a decrease in energy efficiency, costly repairs, and even health problems.
FENSA certified installers can help you repair and maintain your double-glazed windows to ensure that it meets energy efficiency standards for legal compliance and the resale value.
Broken Panes
A window that is damaged could be a major issue that blocks air, light and even pests from getting into your home. While you can certainly employ a professional to fix the broken pane however, you could also do the repair yourself at a fraction of the cost.
To do this, you'll have to take off the old pane. To protect yourself from glass dust and lead shards, put on protective glasses, gloves and a mask. Set up a level surface that is well ventilated. You should also place an area of drop cloth beneath the work area to catch any loose glass as it is removed. It is a good idea to keep an HEPA vacuum nearby to remove dust, debris, and hazardous waste when you work.
Make use of a utility knife to scrape the old glazing putty off after the old window was removed. Be careful not to damage the wood frame of the window. If the old putty has difficulty getting off it is possible to use a heat gun to soften it. Wear safety goggles and be cautious about getting hot glass or wood pieces in your eye when using a heating gun.
Then, you need to make the frame ready to receive the new pane. To account for wood expansion and contraction to measure the opening, subtract one sixteenth inch in both directions. Then, let your local hardware store cut you a piece of double-strength plastic that fits the opening precisely. Before installing the new glass dry-fit it to ensure a snug fit.
After you've installed the new glass and a little of latex caulk around the opening's perimeter for an airtight seal. Then, install the glazing points to secure the new pane in the proper position. In general, you will only require two points on each edge for standard sizes of window glass.
Once the new glazing compound is dry and dried, you can paint over it to match the frame. If you're worried about the risk of cracks, you can apply a heavy-duty strip of masking tape to prevent superficial cracks from getting worse.
Frames that are damaged
The first thing you have to do is inspect the frame. If there are cracks, corrosion, or rust or the frame is broken into two pieces, you'll need to bring it in for professional repair. Metal frames are not able to be glued and any attempts to weld or solder them will cause permanent damage.
If the frame is not damaged, you may apply a small amount of brush and some conservation detergent or water to clean the frame thoroughly. This will get rid of any grease, dirt, or dust that may have accumulated over time. Careful cleaning of antique frames with ornate carving or gesso will often reveal the original shine beneath the layers of dust.
If the frame is broken You will require needle-nose pliers with a flat surface wood putty, sandpaper as well as a small clamp. Begin by taking off the glass, photo and the back of the frame. Carefully pull the frame apart at the corners where there are nails or brads. If possible, open the joints, scrape off any glue that is old and apply fresh glue.
Loose Compound
The glazing compound that holds glass window panes in their wooden frames is an essential component of any building's energy efficiency. It seals wood, bonds glass to frame, and sheds water to prevent damage from water over time. Cracks or gaps in this compound can cause air infiltration, which lowers insulation and raises energy bills. Make sure you are keeping track of the repair work on your double-glazed windows to keep them running smoothly.
If you notice drafts around the edges of your window frames the weatherstripping seal could be worn out or loose. Replacing this seal reduces the energy costs and improves comfort. If you hear loud sounds outside, such as traffic or machinery, this could indicate that the tape on the glass is worn out.
Remove the old tape from the frame's edge and thoroughly clean the frame. Apply a new piece of tape to the frame's edge and press it down firmly. This tape is available at any hardware store and is an inexpensive method to boost the performance of double-glazed windows.
Standard super glues are excellent for wood, metal, and other common materials. However they're not suitable for glass surfaces. Choose a glass-based adhesive such as Loctite Extreme Glue Gel. This type of adhesive is designed to resist UV and moisture light which makes it a great alternative for repairing double-glazed windows.
You'll need to use a degreaser on the surface of your window frame and sash before you begin the process of repairing it. This will ensure that the new glue adheres to the frame in a proper way. Prepare the area to be glazed with an oil-based primer. Prime the entire area, including the back of sash, where it rests within the frame.
While you can fix many problems with double-glazed windows, if they're badly damaged or do not offer sufficient insulation, replacement might be the best option. Talk to a glazier who is experienced or handyman to help you make the right choice. repairmywindowsanddoors and repairs will ensure that your windows are looking good for many years.
Foggy Panes
Foggy windows happen when the window seal is damaged. This allows air to penetrate and slowly build up moisture between the glass panes. Foggy windows can cause a variety of issues, ranging from calcium deposits and condensation to black stains or fungus. It is not only unsightly but also leads to an increase in energy efficiency and higher heating or cooling costs. Fortunately, it is possible to fix the problem. Foggy windows are often caused by the simple accumulation of moisture which is why the first thing to do is remove as much moisture as possible. This can be accomplished by using a defogging solution or shaving cream. If these measures don't work you need to call in an expert.
Double pane windows are able work because of the space between them. This space is often filled with argon or krypton which are non-toxic gases that are more dense than air and could reduce heat transfer even more. If the gas has leaking out, your windows aren't insulated properly. Installing new windows and replacing them with IGUs will not only stop the fogging but restore your home's energy efficiency too.
Many homeowners believe that they must replace their whole window if it gets foggy, but this isn't always the case. Some glass shops will replace the insulation unit (IGU) only, and without replacing the entire frame or sash. This is a more affordable option and could be equally efficient in fixing your windows.
Although there are DIY solutions for window condensation, such as shaving cream or defogging spray but it is advised to seek out a professional to ensure the job is done safely and correctly. A window repair expert will drill holes in the glass and then inject a cleaning solution into the space between the panes. They will then scrub the soiled surface and dry the inside of the window, restoring its appearance and functionality. Contact a local window replacement or repair expert to learn more about the process or schedule a no-pressure in-home consultation today.