Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing refers to panes of glass within the frame of a window or wall opening. Sometimes, the window glass gets damaged and may require repairs.
If you've noticed condensation in between the windows or noticed a distinct draught or if the handles and hinges are becoming difficult to open or close, these are all indications that your double glazing requires to be fixed. This repair usually involves replacing the entire unit.
Broken Panes
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes, with an air space between them that is filled with inert gases like Krypton and argon. This helps to keep heat inside your home and stops cold drafts from entering. Sometimes the windows may be damaged and the entire window will need to be replaced. If you spot a crack or chip in the window, it is essential to contact the company who supplied you with the double glazing immediately to report the problem and ask for a repair.
A few simple steps can be used to fix a damaged window, however it is not recommended you attempt to repair the damage yourself unless you are an experienced DIYer. Put on gloves first and then carefully remove the damaged window pane. If the pane is cracked, apply masking tape in a crisscrossing design to the cracked areas. This will prevent cracks from getting worse over time, especially during the winter. You should also cover your work surface in newspapers to prevent any broken pieces from falling. Once the broken pane has been removed, scrape away any glazing putty or glazed window seal using a putty knife and remove the glazing points using pliers. Finally, coat the bare wood with an easy-drying primer.
If you are able to buy a new replacement pane, measure the length and width of the channel with a tape measure. Subtract 1/8" from both measurements to account for the slight movement of the replacement pane. Next, roll a narrow rope of glazing compound into the channels with grooves and then slide the glass into the grooves. Tap gently with the Hammer at 6'' or intervals of 8 inches to aid in setting the glass in place, but be careful not to break the glass.
If you have a double-glazing warranty, it's often worth trying to use this to avoid the cost of a complete replacement window. In general, the warranty will cover both the cost of the replacement parts and labour. It is important to verify the warranty details as they can differ from one company to the next.
Foggy Glass
Foggy glass is usually caused by condensation between the panes of your double-glazing. This can be due to a number of things like temperature fluctuations, incorrectly installed frames, or even the ageing seals.
In the majority of cases, double glazing installers can fix this issue quickly and easily. You should contact the company who installed your windows immediately if you spot any issues. Then follow up with a written response. It will be much easier to reach the company should you have to later. This is also helpful if your warranty or guarantee covers the problem.
It is possible to solve the issue by replacing seals on the gaskets. This will not need replacing the entire window unit, and will help keep your home more energy efficient. To accomplish this, the window glazier will take off any retaining clips or strips that are holding the IGU in place and then cut through the old sealant with the aid of a saw.
They'll then design or order a new IGU that will fit in the frame, and they'll apply special sealants to ensure it's air - and watertight. Once they're finished, they'll reinstall retaining clips or strip them and apply more sealant.
If you're lucky the misting will cease. However, it's important to make sure your frames are properly ventilated so that water doesn't get trapped in your walls and ceilings.
Double glazing owners have also reported that their windows and doors are difficult to open or close. This could be due to extreme weather conditions, or the frame has sagged over time and is not in line with the rest of your home. If this is the problem, you can try wiping down the frames using cold water to shrink them a bit. However, this will not resolve the issue completely. If you're still unable to solve the issue, you might require a professional to replace the frames.
Condensation
Condensation occurs when the insulation gas in double glazing windows fails to stay in place, leaving moisture and air between the panes. This is a common problem in winter, when humidity levels are usually higher, but it can occur at other times of year too. Moisture can cause mould and mildew to grow around window frames, sealants, and sills. This isn't just unsightly, but it's also dangerous for your health. A window expert can usually reseal condensation to reduce moisture and prevent moisture from building up in your home.
Window sealing, or window gaskets, are a critical part of any double glazing window or door. These gaskets seal in the air-tight space between the window glass to prevent drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. The gaskets may perish or shrink in time due to weather, temperature conditions, and aging, which means that you get more info may notice condensation appearing on your double-glazed windows or doors.
It is possible more info to repair it however, it will require replacement of the "sandwich" (thermo-pane & glass) website in your double-glazing window. It is recommended that unless you have the correct tools, you get an expert to re-seal your double-glazed window.
Mist between your double glazed windows is another common problem that can be a challenge to fix. This indicates that the seal on the vacuum at 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 by using the same procedure they would with the fog or condensation issue. This usually involves removing a sandwich and spraying the cleaning solution on it, followed by sucking out the sealing agent. It is essential to precisely measure the sandwich's length as well as width and thickness to ensure that the replacement is an exact fit and a new vacuum seal can be drawn between the glass.
This can be a challenging job and requires specialised tools that aren't commonly available in DIY stores. It's best left to professionals since faulty seals can result in damp and mold in your home which can be both costly and hazardous to your health.
Water Leaks
If you notice water leaking around your double glazing windows, it is important to act fast. A small leak can quickly turn into a big problem when not dealt with quickly.
The window frame could be the culprit. Verify that the sill, the flat bottom of the window frame, is pitched in a way that water runs away from your home and not into the frame. If you find that the sill pan has not been pitched correctly or you can see water in the wood, you should contact an expert in double-glazing repair.
Another reason for water leaks is damaged window seals. This can be due to the aging process damage, weather, or any other. It's not as simple to fix, and is generally best left to the professionals.
A broken window seal can let air through the windows which makes it less energy efficient. This allows cold air into your home in the winter and hot gas to escape in summer. This can lead to high heating and cooling costs.
It is a simple repair by applying a new layer of caulking. While it is possible for people who have DIY skills to do read more this on their own it is generally much more efficient to let a double-glazing specialist take care of it for you. This way, you'll get a guarantee and peace of mind knowing that the job will be done right.
Some double-glazing windows come with warranties that last up to 20 years. It is recommended to check with the company you purchased windows from and determine what they offer and how long. You can avoid the expense of having to replace double-glazed windows later on. If your double glazed windows are covered under a warranty, it is crucial to report the problem with them as soon as you notice website any issues. This can be done via the internet or by contact with the company directly. This information will be useful should you require the warranty.