Insulated windows with telltale condensation can be repaired without completely replacing windows.
Insulated windows are a great way to save energy, but when the seals fail and the panes become foggy with condensation, as they all eventually do, your energy savings can go right out the window in repair or replacement costs. You can order replacement insulated panes for your windows from most home centers and make the repairs yourself. There are three major types: gasket seal, adhesive tape seal and caulk seal. Each window type will have a different method of removing the panes for replacement. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
Removing Window Sashes
1. Remove double and single hung sashes by removing the side stop trim. Pry the vertical trim pieces on the window jamb from the frame, being careful not to split them. Lift the sash from the window and disconnect the ropes or springs at the two top corners. These will be fastened either with a clip or a knot in the rope slipped into a channel.
2. Remove casement windows by opening the window fully and disengaging the release clips at the top and bottom. If you cannot work the release, simply remove the screws from the extension arms and lift the window down.
3. Remove sliding panes by lifting up on the frame. The bottom edge of the sash will rise high enough to swing out of the frame, then simply pull down gently to remove the sash. To replace sashes, simply reverse the order of removal.
Gasket Seal Windows
4. Remove the frame screws from two opposing corners of the sash. These are located along the side, driven into the horizontal frame member. Leave the remaining corners intact to make reassembly easier.
5. Tap the pieces apart with a rubber mallet until the sash frame separates at the joints into two Ls. Be careful not to drop the glass, or tear the gasket, as these are nearly impossible to find replacements for.
6. Remove the gasket from the edges of the old glass and dispose of the glass. Be sure the gasket is dry and install it around the edges of the new glass. Run a small bead of silicone around the edge of the new glass to aid in sealing.
7. Slide the new glass and gasket into one half of the disassembled sash. Slip the remaining half back onto the glass and tap it firmly to seat the joints. Reinstall the corner screws.
Tape and Caulk Seal Windows
8. Locate the seam in the joint between the sash and the stop trim on the inside of the window. Pry this stop from the sash with a stiff putty knife or small pry bar. Save it for reinstallation. Pull nails through the back of the wood trim to preserve the face with locking pliers. Do this on all four edges of the glass.
9. Lift the old glass from the frame. You may need to cut along the edge of it to release the seal. Scrape the remaining tape or caulk from the frame to leave a clean surface.
10. Apply new sealing tape, available from glass suppliers, to tape sealed windows around the frame on all four edges. Be sure the tape meets at the corners. Run a bead of pure silicone caulk around the frame for a caulk sealed window. Make sure your bead is continuous.
11. Insert the new glass, pressing firmly to establish the seal. Snap or nail the stop trim, depending on the window, back into place on the inside of the window frame. Glue any split pieces with wood glue. Use finish nails to fasten the wooden trim, three on each edge.
Tags: edges glass, from frame, stop trim, around frame, four edges
