When to Call in a Professional and When to Do it Yourself
Window repairs can be costly. But, it's important to understand when to engage a professional, and when you are able to do the job yourself.
Water and dirt leaking between the panes of windows is an indication of a seal failing. This can cause windows to become inefficient, leading to higher energy bills.
Adhesives sold in auto repair shops can be used to fix damaged or chipped glass as well as sash issues.
Cracked Glass
Glass can be damaged by the smallest of pebbles from your lawnmowers or a slammed door or window handle. It's good news that you can repair cracked glass that isn't broken into pieces, or a double paned window with holes in both panes by cleaning it thoroughly and then applying epoxy.
This is a long-term solution but it's also one of the most efficient. Epoxy, which is a thermosetting plastic, will give your windows the strongest seal possible and can even make a crack nearly disappear if done correctly. Start by thoroughly cleaning the windows, and then filling in the cracks using the epoxy, which could take multiple attempts to ensure you've covered the entire surface area.
The kind of epoxy you require will depend on the size and nature of the cracks. Choose a two-part mixture consisting of resin and hardener. These products usually come with a syringe, which lets you regulate the flow of the resin or the hardener. However wooden sticks can be used in the same way. Mix the epoxy for approximately 20 seconds to let it thicken before you apply it. You have only 5 to 10 minutes before it begins to harden.
For larger cracks, consider using glass adhesive instead of epoxy. Glass adhesive is available at auto repair stores. It's designed to fix windshields, but it can work equally well on windows at home. The product comes with clear instructions to guide you in the application procedure.
After the epoxy has dried, remove any excess using a razor and clean the window with a rag soaked in Acetone. This will take off any epoxy that was raised above the crack. Spray the repaired window with glass cleaner, and polish it using a clean rag, and your windows will be as clean as new.
Stress cracks can develop on any surface of glass and tend to spread over the entire window if it is not treated promptly. These types of cracks are usually caused by temperature variations between the outside and the inside of your home, however they can also result from slamming your windows shut repeatedly or applying excessive force when opening them.
Broken Seals
No matter if your window is double or triple pane, insulated or not it will be susceptible to failure of the seal in the course of time. The window seal keeps an air gap between two areas of different temperatures--in other words outside air and inside air, which will prevent the accumulation of moisture and condensation. When the seal fails the moisture can get spread across windows, which can cause them to get smudges or drips. Foggy windows can be unsightly and cause water damage, or rot.
The main indication of a damaged seal is that the windows are fogging up and not just in one spot. The moisture that escapes through the window panes could cover a much larger area than just the glass itself, so it is crucial to recognize and address this issue as soon as possible.
upvc window repair may cause various issues that extend well beyond the appearance and performance of your window, such as the possibility of a higher than usual energy bill when outside air finds its way into your home. This is particularly true for windows that were previously insulated with inert gasses like argon and Krypton, which are used to boost their insulating capabilities.
Although a damaged seal is not quite as urgent as a damaged window, it's an important problem to address. A damaged seal could lead to moisture in the walls of your home, decaying wood and even mold, so it is recommended to consult a window company close to you when you notice any signs of a faulty seal.
It is recommended that you hire a professional to replace the entire IGU. This is the most commonly used method to fix a broken seal, however it is only feasible when the frame isn't damaged. It is also possible to apply weatherstripping or caulk around the sash, but this is more difficult and less durable than replacing the whole window. Finally, some companies offer an option for just replacing the IGU without replacing the frame, however this can be a challenge and should be performed by a professional window installer.
Expansion/Contraction Between Sashes/Frames
The breaking of glass panes is a frequent issue for homeowners. The reason for this is the snare of a baseball or a severe storm this kind of damage must be repaired immediately. Repairing damaged windows can be expensive and time-consuming because a new layer of glass must be made to match the frame. It is important to determine if the window frame or sash has been damaged first before determining the best way to proceed.
For instance, older wood windows will typically feature the "stop," a thin strip of wood that stops the top sash from moving but allows the bottom sash to slide out. If the stop is worn or broken, it can cause drafts as air can pass through the sashes. This can be fixed by replacing the stop, but this is a situation in which it might make more sense to replace the entire window.
Another sign that windows are in need of a major repair is when it lets too much noise through. If your windows are letting in too much traffic or street noise, it could be time to replace them.
Many New Orleans houses have tall wooden sash windows. These allow breezes to circulate through the home in hot weather. Raising the bottom sash will draw humid and hot air out of the house. Lowering the top sash will ventilate the home, and draw cool air from the outside. If the windows are not working as they are supposed to they should, it may be due to the degeneration of the weight and pulley mechanisms hidden inside the frame or built-up paint.
In the majority of cases, removing the build-up of paint and repairing the parts can restore the functionality of a window. However, it is sometimes more sense to replace the window entirely to ensure its longevity. This is particularly true if there are major construction projects in the near future that involve windows. If repairs cost similar to that of a brand new window, a complete replacement may make sense.
Fog between panes
When a double-pane window is causing fog, it's usually because the seal between the glass panes has failed. The problem is especially common in humid areas where moisture in the wooden frame could cause the seal to degrade and allow air to enter. In this instance it is more beneficial to replace the window instead of repair it.
Foggy windows are a frustrating issue. It can be difficult to remove the water that has built up between the glass panes. This can affect the efficiency of your window and make it difficult to see outside. Fogging between panes can also be an indication of other issues that include rot and mold in the frame and surrounding materials.
Condensation is by far the most common cause of moisture between the glass. Condensation occurs when cool surfaces absorb water vapors from the air and then release it when the surface warms up. This is a common natural phenomenon which can occur on a variety of surfaces, including windows. If you're able to clean the condensation off your window, it's likely simply humidity that has cooled off and settled on the glass's cooler surface.
In some cases glass may become permanently fogged due to condensation or other issues which have weakened the seal between the panes. If this happens, you should contact the window manufacturer to determine if your windows are still covered by warranty. If they are, then replacing them could be less expensive than fixing them.
Some companies offer to repair or replace double-pane windows without having to remove the sash. This is usually done by drilling a hole in between the panes, then vacuuming out the moisture trapped inside, and then installing vents in the window to allow air circulation. This can remove some of the fogginess but it is often short-lived and doesn't replace the inert gas between the panes, or restore the insulation value of your window. The best method to stop persistent fogging is to replace the IGU. If you're not ready to invest in a replacement but you're still able to try defogging products that aid in removing the moisture from between the panes.