Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing is the term used to describe panes of glass that are placed inside a window frame or wall opening. Sometimes, this window glazing becomes faulty and may need repairs.
If you've noticed condensation between the windows, a noticeable draught or hinges and handles are becoming difficult to open or close, these are all indications that your double glazing requires to be fixed. This repair typically involves a resealing of the entire unit.
Broken Panes
Double glazed windows are made up of two glass panes with an air gap which is filled with inert gases such as Krypton or argon. This keeps heat in your home and stops cold drafts from entering. Sometimes, windows will become damaged, and the whole window may require replacement. It is essential to contact the company who sold you double glazing immediately when you notice a chip or crack in the window.
It is possible to repair damaged glass by following a few easy steps, but it's not recommended unless you have previous experience in DIY. Put on gloves first and carefully remove the damaged window pane. If the pane is cracked, apply masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern to the cracks. This will prevent the cracks from worsening over time, especially in the winter. It is also a good idea to cover the work area with newspaper in the event that any broken pieces fall off. After the broken pane has been removed, use a putty blade to scrape away any glazing putty or glazed window seal. Remove the glazing points by using pliers. Finally, coat the bare wood with a fast-drying primer.
If you are able to buy a new replacement pane you can measure the length and width of the channel using a tape measure. Subtract 1/8" from both measurements to allow for the slight movement of the replacement pane. Then, you can roll a thin rope of glazing compound into the channels that have grooves and then slide the glass into place. Tap the glass gently using the hammer every 6" or 8" to help it set in place. Be careful not to break it.
If you have a double glazing warranty it is often worthwhile to try using this to avoid the expense of a full replacement window. In general, the warranty will cover both the cost of the components and labour. It is essential to verify the specifics of your warranty as they will differ from one company to another, so make sure you are aware of what is covered and when.
Foggy Glass
Condensation between the panes of your double glazing can cause foggy glass. This could be caused by a variety things, including temperature fluctuations, if the frames aren't installed correctly, and even ageing of the seals themselves.
However, the good news is that in most cases this issue can be resolved easily by an experienced double glazing installer. Contact the company that installed your windows immediately if you notice any problems. Then follow up by writing a response. It will be easier to reach out to the company if you have to later. It is also beneficial when your warranty or guarantee covers the issue.
It is possible to fix the issue by replacing seals on the gaskets. This will not need replacing the entire window unit, and will help keep your home more efficient in terms of energy use. To accomplish this, the window glazier will take off any retaining clips or strips that keep the IGU in place, and then cut through the sealant with the aid of a saw.
Then they will build or order an IGU replacement to fit the frame, and use specific sealants in order to ensure that it's airand water-tight. When they're done with the installation, they'll put in retaining clips or strip them and apply more sealant.
If you're lucky, the misting will stop. It is essential that your frames are ventilated properly to stop moisture from accumulating in your walls or ceilings.
Double glazing owners have also reported that their doors and windows are difficult to open and close. This can be due to extreme weather conditions, or because the frame has become sagging over time and isn't aligned with the rest of your home. If this is the case, try wiping the frames with cold water to shrink them down slightly - but it's unlikely to solve the issue completely. If you're still unable to solve the issue, you might require an expert to replace the frames.
Condensation
Condensation occurs when the insulating gas in double-glazed windows fails to hold its place, leaving air and moisture between the panes. This is a frequent issue in winter when humidity levels are generally higher, however it can occur at other times of year too. Moisture can cause mildew and mould to develop around window frames, sealants and sills. This isn't just ugly, but extremely harmful to your health. The good thing is that condensation can usually be sealed by a window professional to reduce the amount of moisture in your home and prevent the build-up of moisture.
Window gaskets are an essential element of any double-glazed windows or door. These gaskets help to seal in the air that is insulated between the window glass and stop drafts, heat, and moisture from entering or leaving your home. The gaskets may perish or shrink in time due to fluctuations in temperature, weather conditions and aging, meaning that condensation could be developing on double-glazed windows or doors.
It is possible to fix this however it will require replacing the sandwich (thermo-pane and glass) of your double-glazing window with a precise replacement. If you do not have the appropriate tools for the job it is recommended that you get a professional to seal your double-glazed windows.
Mist between your double glazed windows is a common issue that can be a challenge to repair. This indicates that the vacuum seal installed by the factory has failed and that there's now no way to get dry air in or out of the window sandwich.
A professional will reseal the window with the same method as they would for fog or condensation issues. This will normally involve removal of the thermo-pane sandwich and spraying it with a cleaning solution, then sucking out the old sealant. It is important that you accurately measure the'sandwich' in length width, thickness and length to ensure that the replacement is an exact fit, and a new seal can be drawn between the glass.
This is a tough job that requires tools not commonly found in DIY shops. It's best left to the professionals as incorrect seals can cause damp and mold in your home that can be both costly and hazardous to your health.
Water Leaks
It is crucial to act as soon as you see water leaking from your double-glazed windows. If window repairs near me don't act quickly even the tiniest leak could be a huge issue.
The window frame could be the cause. Make sure that the sill pan, the flat base of the window frame, is pitched so that water drains away from your house and not into the frame. If you find that the sill pan isn't properly pitched or you see water in the wood, you should contact a double-glazing repair company.
Another common cause of water leaks is a damaged window seal. This can be due to age, damage, or weather. This isn't an easy fix and should be left to the experts.
A damaged window seal could let air through the windows, making it less efficient in energy use. This allows cold air into your home in winter and hot gas to escape in the summer. This could result in higher cost of cooling and heating.
It is simple to fix by applying a fresh layer of caulking. Although people who have DIY skills can do it themselves but it is generally better to let a double glazing specialist take care of the job. You'll feel secure and have an assurance that the work is done correctly.
Double-glazing windows are available with warranties of up to 20 years. You should check with the company that supplied you with your windows to find out what warranties they offer and for how long. You can save the cost of replacing double-glazed windows in the near future. If your double-glazed windows are covered by a warranty, it is essential to report the problem when you discover any issues. You can do this online or by contact them directly. This information will be useful if you need to use the warranty.