Why You Need Double Glazed Window Repairs Near Me
Double pane windows can help insulate your home and reduce energy costs. However, if they fail or their seals fail they can result in high energy bills.
If your windows have been damaged in any way, you must repair them as fast as you can. You might be able to get public assistance that can make your windows more affordable.
Broken Glass
Broken glass is a typical reason for window repairs. Whether from a bad storm, a stray baseball or some other mishap, a crack in your window glass could let outside air be able to enter your home, and also leave your windows open to possible damage. Cracked glass can also be less appealing than glass that is intact and lower the value of your house.
If you do have cracks, it's vital to address it as quickly as possible. Simple solutions can help stop the crack from advancing while you attempt to make a permanent fix. One option is to apply clear tape, ideally on both sides of the crack, which can close it off and stop air from entering. You can also try using clear nail polish that has similar adhesive properties and is suitable for a wide range of people.
Glass adhesive is a great temporary fix. You can purchase it from the internet or in many auto repair stores. This product was designed for vehicle windows but works equally well on double-paned windows offering a cost-effective solution that does not require a trip to the hardware store.
Depending on the kind of crack you've got, there are different types of epoxy that can be used to fill and seal the crack. Some of these glues are simple to use and give quick results but others can be more labor-intensive, but will yield the best results for your broken glass. Follow the instructions on your glue to learn how to use it correctly.
Once you've applied the proper glue, it's now time to put back in the broken window pane. You will need to remove the trim pieces that hold the glass in position as well as any glazing putty (small metal clips that have sharp points that push deep into the wood in order for the window to be held). After everything is removed and you're ready to apply your chosen epoxy that needs to cure before you reinstall the window sash.
Cracked Glass
From pebbles thrown by kids to the occasional heavy drink cracking glass in your home can happen in a variety of ways. But no matter the cause, cracked window glass is an issue. It's ugly, decreases the efficiency of your home, and can pose a security risk. So if you have glass that has cracked, you should definitely seek help from a professional.
There are a couple of ways to fix cracks in your glass, according to the kind of damage and degree of the damage. For cracks that are not too obvious, masking tape can be an inexpensive and quick solution. One strip of tape will suffice to stop superficial cracks such as stress cracks from becoming more severe. For more severe cracks that result from the impact, you may need to extend the tape both sides by a few inches.
Alternately epoxy repair kits can be found at a variety of hardware stores and are relatively easy to use. These kits usually include two epoxy tubes and putty blades and brush. You can also buy a razor blade to remove any epoxy that has grown above the crack. Keep in mind that these methods are only temporary fixes and you will likely have to replace your windows sooner rather than later.
The most durable way to repair cracks in your glass is to hire a professional to do a laminated glass repair. Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that is normally composed of three layers of toughened glass and a PVB interlayer. The glass is able to be colored and additional PVB can be added to different thicknesses of glass in order to make bullet-proof glass.
Crackle glass is a brand new trend in interior design, where the middle layer of toughened glass is shattered to give it a look that resembles cracked ice. It is often used to decorate shower doors, kitchen glassware and tabletops. However it can also be used on windows. It's not as durable as shattered glass and is generally more difficult to repair than standard glass. If you are considering this type of glass for your house, it is recommended to speak with a professional as the process can be complex and expensive.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows can cause a loss of energy efficiency and are a sign that moisture is trapped between the panes of glass. The cause of this is a weak seal around the window, which allows water-containing air to enter between two panes of insulated glass. This could eventually decrease the insulation properties of your windows. There are several ways to prevent fogging in double pane windows.
Most homeowners who have problems with their double pane windows believe that they need to replace the entire window, which can be expensive. However, there is often an alternative that can save you money and time, while still fixing your windows: repairing them using a procedure known as defogging.
Defogging, a relatively new innovation in window repair, employs the same principles as dehumidification to remove excess moisture between glass panes of an double pane window. It involves drilling small holes into the window and letting the water that is trapped evaporate throughout the daytime. Once the fog has cleared, the holes can be filled up and your windows will appear like new.
To prevent the window from getting obstructed to prevent fogging, the installer drills two holes at the top and the bottom of the frame. Depending on the design of your frame, you may require removing the removable retaining beading before drilling. The cleaning and rinse solution will be introduced into the plastic tube once the hole has been created. When the solution is removed from the lower hole it is washes away the interior of both panes of glass and dries them. The upper hole is used to inject anti-fog chemicals, which keep the windows looking new.
This is a cheap way to fix a window that is fogging however, it doesn't address the underlying problem that led to the fogging in the first place. It's important to keep in mind that if you compromise the seal of the window, water can be able to enter the frame and cause more damage.
Drafty Windows
A drafty window allows cold air in and warm air out, causing higher the cost of energy. A window expert with experience can help you identify the source of the problem and fix it. The issue is typically small gaps or cracks that can be easily closed with caulk. However, replacing old windows with decaying wood and single-paned glass can be more economical.
If you have a double-glazed window, a simple inspection may show that the sash isn't locked in place. Sashlocks aren't only a security measure, it also helps seal the cold and hot air. A window replacement specialist can install a new lock and adjust it to the proper height to avoid drafts.
Weather stripping that has worn out or broken can cause drafts too. You can apply weather stripping made of plastic to the sides of a window to stop drafts. It's easy to add and remove at the close of the season as well. Rope caulk can be used to fill the gaps that are present on older wooden windows. Rope caulk is able to be molded into the gaps and is easy to clean.
If the window frame is old and cracked it is possible to apply a thermal insulating film to the inside of the window. This film is easily removed at the end of the winter. It can be applied with an application roller.
upvc window repairs around windows can be filled by using caulk or weather stripping. You can also reseal the trim to keep out drafts, without the need to remove it. To do this, scrape away any dried paint on the interior trim with a utility knife, then slide a 3-inch flexible putty knife in the trim using nail and pull it slightly. Next, wedge in a pry bar and then pull the knife outward.
To use caulking, cut the tube's tip at an angles using scissors. Make sure to select caulk that can be painted or painter's caulk. Beginning at the top of the trim, run a thin bead of caulk between the trim and wall. After drying, smooth it and bevel it with your latex gloved finger.