Title: Cleaning Between Panes: A Guide for Old Windows
As old as the saying “an onion has many layers” old windows, too, may have several layers, in this case, panes! Old windows, often being the focal point of traditional architecture, are a true delight. However, in the age of modern renovation and conservation, it often becomes essential to replace the windows for better insulation and overall structural integrity. In this scenario, the panes in between the frame may need to be “exposed” for efficient cleaning and maintenance. It is quite possible that until a complete replacement is conducted, one may wonder is there a way to clean between the panes while the windows remain intact, preserving the historical integrity intact. Well, the question does need to be answered then.
Yes, there’s a way to clean your old windows, even while keeping them intact. These old panes can give the best of both worlds – their historic charm kept, along with the additional benefit of being clean to look at.
These windows are original to the house, built in 1985. I know they need to be replaced and that the water stains are from a bad seal. Is there any way to clean between the panes in the meantime?
no but a local glass company should be able to just replace the glass at a fraction of the cost of a new window unit.
No way to clean it, your seals have failed(very common problem) call local glass shop
There are (or used to be) companies that had a process to do that. It involved drilling two holes in the glass and flushing some sort of solution that removed the mineral build-up. Then they would reseal the edges of the glass and give you a ~3 year warranty on the work. At the end of the day it cost at least 60-75% of what you would pay to just replace the glass.
At their age, those seals are most likely rotten…literally broken down to just holding in the glass panes…
Call a window place and get an estimate for replacement…
For consideration…my hubs and I live in a 1998 home with SIX 72” x 35” sliding windows – half have broken seals.
Our next project will be window replacement BECAUSE the difference between the manufacturing of windows AND their insulation VALUE between 1997 -> 2024 is ENORMOUS !!
As a professional window cleaner. I can say without a shadow of a doubt: no
This is why multi-pane windows suck
Some window brands have a lifetime warranty on this issue, so check the brand and look online. We had it happen to some of our walkout basement windows (15 year old house) and Pella replaced them for free within a month. But, you have to hire someone to install them.