Condensation can damage the seal of your double-pane window and structural integrity. If you are a building or homeowner with a problem such as this, there are many alternatives to look at before committing to a more permanent solution.
Measure the height and the width of the opening in the frame. Subtract 1/8-inch from each measurement in order to purchase glass panes that are slightly undersized, which will make it easier to install and allow the room for seasonal expansion and contraction.
Cracks
Cracks in windows could be caused by a pebble that was thrown from your lawnmower, a vase knocked over by a pet or an abrupt change in weather. Cracks in windows can usually be repaired at home if you're willing to put in a little effort. However, if the crack is greater than one inch, a single-pane glass, or double-paned glass with a hole through both panes, it's best to call in an expert to fix the damage.
A window that is cracked and only small or located at the edge of the frame may be fixed by putting a strip of clear packing tape on each side of the crack. This will prevent the crack from spreading and seal the gap to the exterior and keep out the bugs, rain, wind and other debris. This fix is temporary since glass cracks tend to expand over time.
For more severe cracks in the glass, you can use two-part epoxy to fill the cracks. First, thoroughly clean the affected area and then remove the broken glass pieces. Mix the epoxy in a place that is well ventilated on a piece or paper plate. The mixture is typically made up of a 50/50 mixture of hardener and resin, however, you must follow the instructions on the product you're using. When mixed, the epoxy becomes very thick and must be used immediately. Apply the adhesive and smooth it in the desired location using your putty knife. Allow to dry for 5 minutes.
Another home remedy for fixing cracks is to use clear nail polish. The nail polish works similarly to super glue. It fills and seal the cracks stopping them from spreading. Be sure to allow the nail polish to fully dry, as washing or cleaning the area can cause it to peel off. You can also use a caulking gun to fill in any gaps between the frame and the glass. This is particularly important for older windows that are getting older, as these gaps can eventually let water and other elements to get into the home.
Leaks
Indoor accidents, such as a misplaced baseball or a furniture move that was not properly planned are the most common causes of cracked glass. Likewise, outdoor incidents like strong winds can rip the pane out of its frame. Caulking is a method to repair cracks in glass. This repair method can be done using either silicone or polysulfide, depending on the type and materials used to construct the frame.
This window glass repair should be carried out when the weather is warm and dry. This allows you to apply the caulking in a dry condition and allows it plenty of time to cure before it's exposed to rain. Before you begin the caulking process, you need to examine the window from inside and outside to find the source of the leak from. It is also important to ensure that weep holes are clear of obstructions such as insect carcasses and other debris as this can help prevent water from leaking through the frame's bottom.
If you spot an indication of water that the window has a leak, use a pry bar to remove any existing trim to get a clear view of the joint between the frame and sash. If you see signs of rot then this will need to be replaced by a wood filler before applying the caulking. After cleaning and sanding the surface, caulking can be applied. It should dry overnight.
Another type of leak is a structural one that is usually caused by an unsound or damaged wall around the window. It's difficult to identify because it's not always directly below the window. If you notice damp patches on the walls in the vicinity of the frame, then it's likely that there's an opening in the wall that is letting water enter and accumulate above or below the window studs.
In this instance it is recommended to have an expert look into the situation and suggest a proper method of action. If the issue is extensive, then it's probably an ideal idea to replace the window entirely and enable you to enjoy better energy efficiency in your home.
Broken Panes
You should contact an expert if your window glass is broken into shards as a result of a bad storm or a baseball that was thrown at you by your children. While replacing one pane of glass in a small window is fairly 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 inefficient gap. To stop the cold air, water, and other critters from making their way into your home and causing your bill for utility, seek out a window repair expert to replace the entire unit, not just the broken piece of glass.
The first step to repair your double-pane windows is to remove the old glass from the frame. Wearing eye protection, gloves and other protective clothing, you can break the glass into manageable pieces. After removing the glass, use the putty blade to scrape off the glazing compound and glazing tips. This is a messy process, but is necessary to ensure that the new glass is positioned correctly within the frame.
Once the bare wood is exposed then use a scraper to smooth it. If needed a chisel could be used to cut away any areas of wood molding that are too tight or glued to the frame of the window. To prevent mold and rot you can seal the wood with linseed or clear window caulk.
While you can put one windowpane inside a wooden frame with some practice, double-glazed windows require the expertise of a professional to avoid complications. A professional will design and construct the double-glazed windowpanes, which are a different size from a single pane, to ensure that they fit correctly and that there aren't gaps or joints that are uneven.
Homeowners can decide to replace their window glass when they see condensation or moisture in the window panes. They may also consider doing so when their energy bills are more expensive in summer or winter, or if there are restrictions regarding the use of old windows. Replacement of windows can be an affordable solution for those who are considering changing the look of your home or upgrading to more energy efficient windows.
Replacement
Most homeowners replace their windows if it is cracked or broken, or if the single-paned windows are dated and outdated. This can be costly, but can also boost energy efficiency and reduce noise levels within the home. It is recommended to contact an expert to install the new windows to ensure that the installation is completed properly. A professional will know the various types of glasses and pick the most appropriate one for your home. They also know the proper method of installing it, which will save money in the end.
Tape the crack with packing tape or masking tape, stretching the tape to both sides of the crack. This will stop the crack from advancing as you work on fixing it. Then you can apply clear nail polish to the crack to hold it in place and seal it from the elements. You can apply up to three layers of nail polish and let it completely dry between each application.
You can use an utility knife to remove old glazing putty. You'll also need to cut off any clips or nails used to secure the pane. Once you have removed the old pane, clean the edges of the frame and glass to make sure that there are no fragments left behind. After that, you can install the window pane. Apply silicone caulk if there is a gap to help the glass adhere to the frame.
It is possible to follow the same procedure for a larger, however more difficult window. You will need to use a ladder to reach windows on the second floor. It is also possible to remove decorative elements like muntins or mullions that divide the glass panes due to aesthetic reasons. It is best to work with a window repair or replacement expert for this kind of work, since they will be able to deal with these issues safely and efficiently. They will also know how to dispose of waste safely, so that it doesn't fall onto animals or family members.
