Dual Pane Window Glass Repair

For the past few weeks, I have been explaining how to repair a broken window pane in your home. But, what if you have dual pane windows? Is the process the same? Well, pretty much, except for a couple of variations. So, let's review the single pane repair process, and I will point out the differences regarding dual pane windows.

When we start talking about dual pane windows, one of the first things that comes to mind is vinyl window frames instead of aluminum. When dealing with dual pane windows, you can have either aluminum or vinyl frames, depending on the year the house was built. Dual pane glass got popular in the 1980's, but vinyl frames didn't really catch on until the 1990's. So, if your house is less than 10 years old, chances are you have vinyl framed windows. In either case, I will discuss the differences. Let's say you have a sliding aluminum frame window with dual pane glass. The procedure for removing the frame from the opening and the glass from the sash is the same as with the single pane windows.

The differences are, first, the glass goes into the frame about twice as far as the single pane window. The single pane window glass went 1/4" into the surrounding rubber. The dual pane usually goes 1/2" into the rubber. So, if both pieces of glass have been broken, you are going to have to order a new IGU (Insulated Glass Unit) from the local glass shop. They are going to want to know the width, height, overall thickness, and possibly the individual glass thickness. The best way to get the dimensions is to measure the width and height from rubber to rubber, write those numbers down. Then, remove the panel from the opening and place it on a table like we did with the single pane window. Remove the screws from opposite corners and pull of the frame. You will be able to see how far the glass goes into the surrounding rubber. If it's 1/2", then you want to add 1" to the width and height that you measured previously (1/2" times two sides= 1"). Then, measure the overall thickness of the unit by removing the rubber from the glass edge.

Typically, this dimension is 1/2", but not always. There is a metal spacer that divides the two panes of glass. Make a note of the color so you can request the same color in the new IGU. It's either going to be silver or bronze. If you want to get the same size spacer you need to give the glass shop the thickness of each piece of glass in the IGU. If the old unit has 1/8" glass on both sides, and the overall thickness of the unit is 1/2", then they will use a 1/4" spacer. If the glass is 3/32" on both sides, they will use a 5/16" spacer. If you don't care about matching the spacer thickness, you can request the thicker 1/8" glass, and they will automatically use a 1/4" spacer.

When you get the new IGU home, the installation is the same as the single pane window. Now, what if only one side of the IGU has been broken? Many times the outer pane will break, but the inside pane is fine. You can order a whole new IGU Like we just did, or, if you're the adventurous type, you can order only the single pane of glass that was broken and replace it. I'm going to explain how to do it, then i'm going to tell you the things that can go wrong. After you have the window pane on the table with the surrounding frame removed, you will see a black rubber type substance around the edge where the spacer is applied. This is a butyl sealant, and you have to separate the broken glass from this butyl. The best way to do it is to take a utility knife with a new blade and break through the butyl where it meets the broken glass. Then, take a new hacksaw blade, and push it into the area where you sparated the butyl from the glass. You don't want the hacksaw blade to be attached to a hacksaw. Using your hand, saw back and forth as you work your way around the edge of the glass. This should allow you to remove the glass.

Once that's done, lay rags on top of the good piece of glass to catch any debris, and scrape the surface of the spacer that will be contacting the new glass. Use a putty knife. Then, remove the rags and debris. When you are ready to put the new glass on, clean the inside of the good piece of glass that you didn't remove. Remember, once you install the new glass, any debris or finger marks on the inside will be permanently sealed. So, clean it real good and check it from all angles. Do the same to the side of the new glass that will be going to the inside of the IGU. Then, run a thin bead of clear silicone around the entire perimeter of the spacer. Set your new glass on the spacer and use finger pressure to adhere the glass to the silicone all the way around.Then, come in from the side, and run silicone around the side where the glass and spacer meet. Cover the window opening with something for 24 hours. You do not want to touch the IGU for 24 hours. The silicone needs to cure. After 24 hours, you can assemble the unit and install it back into the opening.

There are a couple of things that can go wrong. The first one is leaving marks on the inside portion of the glass. Once you seal the glass, you cannot clean what's between the panes. The other thing involves condensation between the panes. If you have even the slightest break in the silicone seal around the glass, chances are you will beging to see moisture form as soon as the nights get cold and the days get warm. You are going to have to decide if you are confident enough in your ability to do the job right, or if it's better to pay the extra money to have it done for you. Just because you pay someone to do it, doesn't mean you still won't encounter the same problems. The difference is, they have to guarantee their IGU for a minimum of 1 year. I have received many units over the years that had marks in between the glass. The beauty of it is the manufacturer can't dispute it, because there's no way anyone else could have done it except them.

OK, what if the window frames are vinyl instead of aluminum? Well, the main difference is the glass in a vinyl window no longer has the rubber gasket around the edge. You dont remove the opposite corner screws and separate the frame from the glass. What they do is put either silicone or a two sided tape on the lip of the frame where the glass rests. That's what holds the glass in the frame, then they apply a snap in stop on all four sides of the glass. So, you have to remove the stops first, then turn over the panel and break the seal holding the glass to the frame using a utility knife. Wear gloves during this procedure. If only one side of the IGU is broken, don't even think about repairing just the one side. You will never get that IGU out of the frame without breaking the other piece of glass in the process. But, on the positive side, you can remove the stops without taking the panel out if it's a slider. You can then measure the dimensions of the glass, and order the new IGU. That way you eliminate any need to temporarily cover up your window. The same is true for the stationary portion of a slider, or a picture window. Before you install the new IGU, be sure and clean the lip that had the tape or silicone, and apply either silicone or tape. Either will work.

You will discover that replacing an IGU in an aluminum frame window is a whole lot easier than a vinyl window. But, in either case, you can do it yourself and save a few bucks.

John Rocco has been installing replacement windows since 1978. To learn more, visit How To Install Windows

---

Color Help: Many Factors Affect Color Preference

Understanding color psychology helps home makers choose colors for home... Read More

Light Up Your Kitchen with the Right Lighting!

The proper lighting in a room can make or break... Read More

Remodeling Your Kitchen

Remodeling a kitchen is one of the best investments a... Read More

Window Shutters On A Budget

While there is great value in installing custom-made interior wood... Read More

Remodel Your Kitchen or Bathroom For The Best ROI!

Trying to decide which home improvement project to tackle next?... Read More

Pergo Flooring Is Perfect For The Home or Office

Pergo flooring was invented more than 75 years ago, and... Read More

Vacation Break for Electrical Machines

Are you overloaded? Have you become a part of the... Read More

Make your Sauna a Focal Point

A sauna has been used throughout history in every part... Read More

Paving The Way For Californias Asphalt Consumers

The California asphalt paving industry is ever-changing and in order... Read More

An Overview of Aluminium, Plastic and Timber Conservatories

Conservatories remain a popular accoutrement and attachment to homes throughout... Read More

Do-it-Yourself Roofing, Is It Advisable? Some Tips and Guidelines

Many do-it-yourselfers pride themselves in their handiwork, you can just... Read More

Hot Tubs Create a Backyard Oasis

What would you like in the backyard that is great... Read More

Creating Dynamic Window Coverings Without Breaking the Budget

When creating dynamic window coverings, it's important to choose carefully,... Read More

Tips For Breaking Away From White Wall Paint

Paint is one of the most affordable and easiest ways... Read More

Flooring: Installing Ceramic Tile

Ceramic Tile brings a texture, richness and color to a... Read More

Faux Fireplace, on the Cheap!

Does the coming winter chill remind you how much you... Read More

A Few Concrete Suggestions

Up until a few years ago, my professional experience was... Read More

Make Your House A Home

When thinking about polished floors, cushions in place, an exquisite... Read More

Mommy, Mommy, Theres a Caterpillar on my Bed

Chenille has been used for bedspreads since Catherine Evans revived... Read More

Your Candles Are Killing You and Your Furniture - Substitute It!

Even though most of the houses are well lighted with... Read More

Vintage Labels on Marble Tiles

It's refreshing to note that gone are the days that... Read More

Buy Area Rugs on the Web? What a Site!

After spending hundreds of dollars on your favorite Picasso print,... Read More

Replacing Your Sliding Glass Door Rollers

If the sliding glass doors in your home are more... Read More

Breaking Away from White Wall Paint

Paint is one of the most affordable and easiest ways... Read More

Using A Hardwood Floor Sander

Refinishing your hardwood floors yourself can be time consuming and... Read More

Beginning Interior Design

Beginning interior design is a challenging, exciting adventure that one... Read More

Laminate Flooring - Cleaning & Maintenance

One of the biggest advantages of laminate floors is that... Read More

Interior Design For New Homes

When decorating or making decorating decisions for new homes, it... Read More

How to Replace the Rollers on Your Patio Sliding Glass Glass Door

Hiring a professional to replace your rollers could cost you... Read More

Cork Flooring Is The Best Option Around For Durability And Aesthetic Value

It is inevitable, almost everyone no matter how long they... Read More

Mistakes?

MISTAKES.Don't worry about making mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes. Why should... Read More

The Right Shower Curtain For Your Bathroom!

A shower curtain can add the perfect touch to any... Read More

Bathroom Wall Cabinets ? Create Extra Space with a Touch of Style!

Is your bathroom looking cluttered? How about fitting new bathroom... Read More