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Four Common Signs That Double Glazed Window Repair Is Necessary Double glazing windows are a fantastic option to save energy. However, they can become damaged as time passes. Luckily, they're easy to repair. Foggy glass, condensation between the panes, and mist are all signs of an issue with the seal. A professional can often resolve this issue without needing to replace the entire window. Broken Panes A stray baseball, hurled rock or even the force of a powerful wind can break the double pane of a window. When this happens, it's difficult to determine if the whole window should be replaced or whether the insulation benefits of this kind of glass can be restored with an easy repair. Repairing a damaged glass pane of a double-glazed window isn't as complicated as it may seem. If you've got the right tools and know how to use it you can fix it yourself. Using the correct tools will ensure that you are not adding any additional damage to your existing windows. Additionally, emergency glaziers will be able to avoid any injuries due to handling sharp glass. The first step is to get rid of the old sealant from the broken glass. You can do this by hand so long as you've got gloves to protect yourself and a method to dispose of the waste to hand. You can use a multi-purpose knife or deglazing tool to get the job done. Once you've removed the sealant from the window, carefully remove the broken glass and store it in a safe location. The next step is to prepare the frame for the replacement pane. Make use of a utility knife scrape away any old caulking or paint on the rabbets (the grooves in the sash where the glass is placed). Then, you can use a paint stripper or sandpaper to expose the naked wood. Apply an exterior primer to the exposed area. After the rabbets have been prepared, you can apply putty on them to prepare them for reinstalling the new glass pane. The putty must be warm and malleable, so that it can be pressed into the rabbets. It is important to evenly press down on the entire surface, ensuring that there aren't any gaps. Once the putty is set, you can reinstall the wooden stops and silicone the edges to ensure your double pane windows are as tight as you can. Replace the weather stripping at the bottom of the frames in order to improve airflow and stop water from entering your home. This will also lower the cost of energy. Foggy Glass The majority of the time, windows that are foggy can be a sign that seals have broken down and draughts and moisture could enter the window. This is more common in wet and humid regions where wooden frames can be damaged if exposed to too much water and condensation. If this is the case, a replacement window might be required but it's generally cheaper to fix the problem with the current glass unit. To prevent breaking the glass to avoid breaking it, make small holes in the frame with a carbide-tipped tool. The moisture that is trapped can be removed using a dehumidifier, or a cleaning agent. When you're trying to do this, it's important not to pick a day when the sun is hot or extremely cold. This could cause the glass to break. Wear safety glasses and gloves as you will be working with sharp tools near the glass. After the fog has removed, you can then add the tube in one of the holes. Then make use of a spray-rinse solution to wash down the glass panes and scrub off any remaining debris. When the window is dry you can apply caulk to seal the hole and the glass edge. You might be able to repair the leaky seals yourself if you are a DIY expert. This could be a risky task, and you'll be required to keep track of the condition of any plugs that are placed into the gap. Even if the problem is resolved, it's likely to return within six months, as moisture will creep back into the gap. This can cause draughts, electrical hazards, and condensation in the home. It is best to employ a certified professional to complete the job. Condensation Between the Panes Condensation in double pane windows is not just a nuisance, it indicates that the seals between the glass are failing. This allows moisture to get in into the gaskets, which can cause damage to them and, if the condensation gets too severe, it can also cause rot or blockage to wood window frames. The most popular way to remedy this is to have the window replaced with a new unit that has proper gaskets and seals. It can be costly and is not always feasible. Especially if either or both of the panes is cracked or shattered. There are, however alternatives to replacing the entire glass unit to offer long-term double glazing repair solutions. The first step is to eliminate the condensation using a commercial defogging spray such as WD-40 Original for Windows. This spray can be applied to both sides of the glass and will typically absorb all moisture within minutes. This should be done at least once a day at the very minimum, however you can repeat the process if you need to. If the issue persists it could be necessary for you to make two small holes below the lower edge of the window. The sun will warm the outer glass and any condensation that forms in the window will flow towards the holes. As the air expands, it will then exit through the holes. This will normally clear the window of condensation, but because it has not addressed the root of the issue in the initial place it could be an ongoing issue. It is also possible to use methods that do not require holes, but it won't be as efficient and could break or shatter the glass. This is a long-term solution that involves the application of a special glue in the cracks. It may be effective however, it is not as effective as a replacement that has a complete seal. In both instances it is recommended to have the job completed by an expert to ensure the procedure is carried out correctly and to avoid the issues of condensation or leaks. Mist If there is a trace of mist on a window, it is usually an indication that the seal has failed. In some instances, this can be fixed, but most likely it will require replacement of the unit. This is a problem that can occur in both new and old double-glazed windows. It is usually caused by the large temperature difference between the indoors and outdoor. As the cold air meets the warm air, condensation may form inside the window. The condensation then dries on the surface of the window making fog or mist. Modern double glazing works by filling the gap between the glass panes with the gas argon. This gas acts as an air barrier between cold and warm air. The window is also sprayed an silica formulation that is that absorbs moisture between the glass panes. These chemicals will wear out over time and you could see moisture build up in the window. If the condensation is only occurring on the inside of the double-glazed windows, it may be possible for them to be repaired instead of being replaced. Repairing the problem will require the removal of your sealed unit from the frame. Separating the panes from the spacer bars, and cleaning them thoroughly. The final result will be an uncluttered window and free of condensation. This is a great option for those who wish to save money but don't want replace their windows. If you have broken glass, extensive rot, or frames that have lost their integrity then it is likely that replacement is needed. However, if you have an issue with your window seal, it could be possible to save your windows and make them more energy efficient. Find a local company that specializes in double-glazed window repairs to see what options you have to fix your current glazing.