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.

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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.

Dual Pane Window Glass Repair

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

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French and Patio Door Window Treatments

The majority of homes have some form of glass door leading to the backyard, outside patio area, deck, or balcony. These patio doors generally fall into three categories: French doors, sliding doors and single doors with panes of glass. For each type there are certain window treatments that work the best in terms of style and function. It can be very difficult to find the right door window treatment that matches the décor of your home and provides the appropriate operating features to meet the needs of your room. This article will offer some very helpful information on which door window treatments are available and which ones should be used depending on the type of glass, patio door.

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French doors, which consist of two glass doors opening in the middle, are very tricky to decorate. The problem with finding window treatments for French doors is the positioning of the handles, which makes them stick out. To overcome this problem of protruding decorative handles choose a window treatment that will hang flush against the door. Some possible window treatments that will fit snug against French doors are roller shades with standard roll option and one inch wood blinds. Both of these window coverings are not too deep and therefore will not interfere with the use of the handles. Another concern with decorating French doors is how often you will be adjusting the blinds or shades. If you will be opening the French door blinds or shades frequently you will want something that is easy to use and if you will be leaving them closed you can add brackets to hold the bottom closed.

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Sliding glass doors generally slide from one side of the door frame to the other. If your patio door slides side to side, you'll want a window treatment that mirrors this side to side operation. Since there is a wide variety of sliding glass door window treatments that operate this way, it's simple to cater to your existing home decor. For example, many fabrics choices for panel track blinds are also available as roller shades or roman shades. Also, keep in mind how you want the patio door blinds or shades to stack when they are open. They can stack on either side or both if the sliding glass door window treatment opens down the middle. If you want the stack of vanes or slats to be fully off the window when gathered, you will need to add extra width so they will leave an unobstructed view. This is very important for the aesthetic of your window.

Single doors with glass panels are also decorated with window treatments. The main factor with this kind of patio door is the size of the internal window. If it spans the entire door then you should use either a vertical door blind or shade. These panes of glass leave your home vulnerable to the outside weather. To insulate this glass you will need to use cellular shades otherwise known as honeycomb shades. For smaller windows you may only need a horizontal mini blind or a small faux wood blind.

Overall, blinds and shades are hard to pair with patio doors and hopefully this article provides useful information for those in the buying process. Always remember to keep in mind both style and function when choosing your door blinds.

French and Patio Door Window Treatments

Whether your patio doors are French doors, sliding doors, or single doors with glass panels, there are a variety of door window treatments including door blinds and door shades that will look and function beautifully.

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Exterior Window Hurricane Shutters - #1 Reason to Make Sure You Have Them

If you live in an area that is prone to hurricanes or any other type of severe weather, then having solid and durable exterior window shutters is a necessity. The benefits of having them installed on all your windows on the outside of your home outweighs the costs dramatically. We are going to take a look at some of the best reasons why these shutters can save your home as well as provide some extra curb appeal in the process.

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Protection!

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What would happen if there is a category 5 hurricane headed your way and you need to evacuate. Is your home protected? Would you board up your windows? This is a perfect scenario where outdoor hurricane shutters play a key role. You can get ones that are mounted on each side of the window that will swing open and shut. When you shut them all the way they can lock in place. This is great for several reasons. First, it will protect your windows and the inside of your home from heavy rain and high winds. Second, they will help protect your home in the case of an evacuation. If you have to leave your home for several days during a hurricane then you would sleep better at night knowing that your windows are sealed behind a solid, sturdy set of window shutters.

You can even still board up your windows if you really want to add a second barrier to the elements. Either way, these will help to make your home less prone to interior damage as well as keep it safer from potential intruders.

Curb Appeal

You can get many different designs of hurricane shutters that do not have to look like they are solely for protection. Many are manufactured and designed specifically to have a stylish look that will accentuate the rest of the beauty of the exterior of your home. There are lots of storm blinds that are like this, so do not worry about having to compromise aesthetics for functionality.

Where Can You Get Them?

There are lots of places where you can get hurricane shutters. Some of the most common locations include home improvement stores that have a wide variety for you to choose from. These include commercial stores such as the Home Depot and Lowes. They will also be able to offer installation services if you feel like you would rather not do it yourself. There are also lots of local companies all over that specialize in jobs like this. Do an internet search or look in the Yellow Pages and you will surely find one near that. Some even offer a free estimate.

In the end, having hurricane shutters is certainly a good idea. It is better to be safe than sorry, so be prepared for the worst case scenario and you will limit the chances of exposing your home to storm damage.

Exterior Window Hurricane Shutters - #1 Reason to Make Sure You Have Them

Charles Mullin writes about window shutters, home interior ideas and more at Exterior Window Hurricane Shutters

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Selecting Patio Door Window Treatments

Whether you are looking to cover French doors, sliding glass doors, or other types of doors that lead out to the patio, you will want to dress them in style with just the perfect patio door window treatments.

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The thing to think about when selecting the perfect window covering for these doors is that you want to let the light from the patio in, so you will perhaps choose a sheer style to do this. In the evening, however, you do not want others to see inside your home through the patio doors, so the covering should be more effective that way.

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There are several types of window coverings for your patio doors that will be effective either way. For instance, you can use blinds, whether vertical fabric blinds, or wooden mini blinds, or anything in between. This way you can pull up the blind when you want to let the sun shine in, and you can lower and close the blind for privacy. You will also find blackout curtains in case you wanted to keep the light out completely. This would be ideal if you had a door from your bedroom that goes out to the patio, and you wanted to sleep in, for instance.

You can also find full-length curtains in many fabrics that will offer a beautiful look, let in the light, and also give you privacy. If you are handy with a sewing machine, you can visit your local fabric store to see the endless selection of fabrics that will suffice in this way. And you may even match that fabric making other window treatments to offset your patio door treatment.

The choices continue with shutters, roman shades, pleated shades, faux wood blinds, panel track blinds, sheers, bamboo, and other draperies.

If you live in a place that has all four seasons, for the winter months you may want to invest in vertical cellular shades. These are also called honeycomb shades. Or you can buy heavier insulated curtains. Both of these choices will keep the cooler air out and save on your heating bills.

If you live in a place that is usually very sunny, solar shades may be the right choice for you, as they will screen out ultraviolet rays, as well as glare. They come in a variety of patterns for your own taste and compliment any room, whether your patio doors come out from the bedroom, the living room, or a deck.

When measuring, you will want to consider whether to start from the top of the door, or just beyond it. If you are looking to hide the gap between the ceiling and the door frame, there are many options you can choose, one of which is the ceiling mount vertical blind.

And if you have a sidelight alongside your patio door, do not forget a treatment to match this, as well. If you have trouble with the installation of these treatments, or you have just never done it before, your local home and building supply center will gladly install them, often for free. They can, of course also measure the door for you and assist you in choosing just the right patio door window treatments for your home.

Selecting Patio Door Window Treatments

Searching for patio door window treatments is easy and quick. You can shop online and save on window treatments for patio doors.

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