Condensation between windows can damage the strength and durability of your double-pane windows. There are a variety of temporary solutions that you can consider as a building owner or homeowner with this problem.Take measurements of the height and width of the frame opening. To order a slightly undersized glass pane subtract 1/8 inch from each measurement. This will make the installation easier and allow for seasonal expansion and contracting.
Cracks
A pebble that is thrown from your lawnmower hitting the window, a favorite vase that is tipped over by your cat, or a sudden abrupt change in the weather can cause cracks to your windows. Generally speaking, these kinds of cracks can be repaired at home as long as you're willing to invest just a few minutes. However, if the crack is greater than one inch, a single-pane glass, or double-paned glass with holes in both panes, you should seek out a professional to fix the damage.
A window that's cracked but small or near the edge of the frame may be fixed by putting an inch of clear packing tape on either side of the crack. This will stop the crack from spreading and seal the gap to the exterior to keep out bugs, rain, wind and other debris. This solution is only temporary because glass cracks typically spread over time.
For more extensive cracks in glass, you can make use of a two-part epoxy to fill in the damage. You should first thoroughly clean the area and take out any broken glass. Mix the epoxy in an area that is well ventilated on a piece or paper plate. Typically, the mixture is made up of a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin however, you must adhere to the directions for the specific product you are using. When mixed, the epoxy gets thicker quickly and should be used immediately. Apply the adhesive to the crack and smooth it in place using your putty knife. Allow it to dry for five minutes.
Clear nail polish is another option to repair cracks at home. Similar to super glue the nail polish will fill in and glue the cracks together, stopping the spread of. Make sure to allow the nail polish to fully dry, as washing or cleaning the area could cause it to fall off. You can also use a caulking gun to fill any gaps between the frame and the glass. This is especially crucial for older windows as they age as the gaps eventually let water and other elements into the home.
Leaks
It could be from a sloppy baseball or an unplanned furniture move or a mishap at home, indoor accidents are among the main causes of cracked window glass. Additionally, outdoor events such as strong winds can blow the glass off its frame. Fortunately, cracks in window glass are easily repaired using caulking. This repair technique can be done with either silicone or polysulfide caulking, dependent on the kind of glass used and the materials used to construct the frame.
The ideal time to complete this repair to your window is when the conditions are dry and warm. This allows you to apply the caulking in a dry environment and allows it plenty of time to cure before it's exposed to rain. Before you begin the caulking process, it's important to survey the window from outside and inside to determine the source of the leak from. Verify that the weep holes in the frame are free of any debris or insect carcasses. This will prevent water from entering through.
If you see the appearance of a water trail, it is an indication that the window is leaky. Use a pry bar to remove the trim to get a closer look at the joint. If you notice rot, then this will need to be replaced with a wood filler prior to applying the caulking. Then, the surface is sanded and cleaned before applying the caulking. It should be allowed to dry over night.
Another kind of leak is a structural one, usually resulting from an unsound or damaged wall around the window. It's difficult to identify since it's not always directly below the window. If you do notice damp patches on the walls around the frame, it's likely that there's an opening somewhere in the wall that is let water in and pool above or below the window studs.
In this case it's recommended that an expert assess the situation and recommend the best course of action. If the problem is severe then it's a good idea to replace the window altogether, which will allow you to enjoy improved energy efficiency within your home.
Broken Panes
You should contact an expert if your windows glass breaks into shards because of the force of a storm or a baseball thrown at you from your children. While replacing a single pane of glass in a smaller window is relatively simple for most DIYers double-pane windows require special tools and should be left to professionals.
If a double-pane window is broken, it creates an energy inefficient gap. You should seek out an expert window repair service to replace the entire unit, not just the broken glass, to prevent cold air, water and critters from entering your home and causing a rise in your energy bills.
The first step in repairing double-paned windows is to remove the old glass from the frame. Wearing gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing, carefully break the glass into smaller pieces. After you have removed the glass, use a putty knife to scrape off the glazing compound as well as glazing points. This is a messy process, but is necessary to ensure that your new glass fits properly in the frame.
Make use of a scraper once the bare wood has been exposed to smooth it. If necessary, a chisel may be used to remove any molding made of wood that is too tight or stuck to the window frame. Finally, sand the wood with fine-grit sandpaper. Seal it with linseed oil or a clear window caulk to stop mold or rot.
Double-glazed windows require the help of a professional in order to avoid problems. A professional should design the double-glazed windowpanes, which differ in size from one pane, to make sure that they fit perfectly and that there are no gaps or joints that are uneven.
Homeowners typically decide to replace their windows when they see condensation or moisture in the window panes, cracks which is growing rapidly, higher energy bills in winter and summer or the need to comply with regulations for older windows. Window glass replacement is a reasonable alternative if you're looking to enhance the appearance of your home or switch to energy-efficient windows.
Replacement
Many homeowners opt to replace window glass when it is cracked or broken, or when they have single-pane windows that are old and dated. This can be expensive, but it could also improve energy efficiency and reduce noise levels within a home. It is recommended to contact an expert to install the new windows to be sure that the installation is completed properly. A professional will be familiar with the different types of glasses and choose the most suitable one for your home. They will also know how to install it properly which will save you money in the long run.
Tape the crack with packing tape or masking tape, stretching the tape to both sides of the break. This will stop the crack from spreading as you fix it. Then you can apply clear nail polish to the crack to help keep it in place and seal it from the elements. You can apply up to three layers and let each one completely dry between applications.
You can use a utility knife to cut off old glazing putty. You'll also need to remove any clips or nails used to hold the pane. After removing the old pane you'll need to clean the edges and frame of the glass. This is to ensure that no shards are left behind. Then, you can re-install the window pane. If there is a gap you can use some silicone caulk to fill it and allow the glass to adhere to the frame.
The same process can be used for windows that are larger, but it could be more difficult. You will need to use a ladder to reach windows on the second floor. You may also have to take out decorative elements such as muntins or mullions, which separate the glass panes for aesthetic reasons. It is recommended to employ a window repair or replacement professional to do this type of work, since they'll be able to handle these issues in a safe manner and quickly. They will also know how to dispose of waste in a safe manner, so it doesn't fall on animals or family members.
