Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing refers to the panes of glass that are placed inside a window frame or wall opening. Sometimes, this window glazing is damaged and requires repairs.
If you've noticed condensation between the windows or noticed a distinct draught or if the handles and hinges are becoming difficult to open These are all indications that your double glazing requires to be repaired. This repair will typically involve an entire reseal of the unit.
Broken Panes
Double-glazed windows comprise of two glass panes with an air gap in between that is filled with inert gases, such as argon or krypton. This helps keep heat in your home and prevents cold drafts from entering. Sometimes, windows can be damaged and the whole window may need to be replaced. If you spot cracks or chips on the window, it is essential to contact the company that sold you the double glazing as soon as you can notify them of the problem and inquire about repairs.
It is possible to fix damaged glass with just a few steps, but it is not recommended unless you are experienced in DIY. First of all you'll need to put on some gloves and carefully remove the broken pane. If the pane is cracked, apply masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern to the cracked areas. This will stop the cracks from getting worse over time, particularly during the winter. You should also cover the work surface with newspapers to stop any broken pieces from falling. Once the broken pane has been removed, scrape away any existing glazing putty or glazed window seal using a putty knife and remove the glazing points using pliers. Finally, paint the bare wood with a fast-drying primer.
Find the length and width of the channels with grooves using the help of a tape. Subtract 1/8' from both measurements to allow for some movement of the new pane. Then, roll a short rope of glazing compound into the grooved channels and slide the replacement glass into place. Tap the glass gently with a hammer every 6" or 8" to aid in setting it in place. Be careful not to break it.
It is worth using your double glazing warranty to prevent the cost of a complete replacement window. In general the warranty will cover both the cost of the components and labour. It is essential to verify the details of your guarantee because it may differ from one company to another, so make sure you understand what is covered and when.
Foggy Glass
Condensation in the panes of your double glazing could cause foggy glass. window repair could be caused by a variety things, including variations in temperature, especially when the frames aren't set correctly, and even ageing of the seals themselves.
In most instances, double glazing installers can fix this problem quickly and easily. It's important to contact the company who installed your windows as soon as you notice a problem, and always make sure to document the issue in writing. This will make it easier in the event that you have to contact them again later on. It could also prove very helpful when the issue is covered by your warranty or guarantee.
The most effective way to stop the fogging is to replace the gasket seals - this can be done without having to replace the entire window unit and will aid in keeping your home energy efficient. To do this the window glazier needs to remove any clips or strips that are holding the IGU in place, and then cut through the old sealant with a saw.
They'll then design or order a new IGU that will fit inside the frame, and they'll use special sealants to make sure it's air and watertight. After they're done, they'll reinstall the clips or strips that hold it and then apply sealant to make sure it's secure.
If you're lucky, the misting may end after this. But, it's crucial to ensure that your frames are ventilated properly so that water doesn't get trapped within your ceilings and walls.
Another frequent issue faced by owners of double glazing is that their doors or windows become difficult to open and close This could be due to extreme weather, or it could be because the frame has sunk or sagged a bit over time, and isn't at a level with the rest of your house. If this is the problem you can try wiping down the frames with cold-water to shrink them slightly. However, this will not resolve the issue completely. If you're unable to solve the issue completely, you may need to have them replaced by an expert.
Condensation
Condensation occurs when the insulating gas in double glazing windows fails to stay in place, allowing moisture and air between the panes. This is more common in winter when humidity levels tend to be higher. However it can also occur at other times. Moisture build up can lead to mildew and mould around sills sealants, window frames and even window sills which is not only unsightly but also dangerous to your health. The good news is that condensation can frequently be resealed by a window professional to reduce the amount of moisture in your home and prevent the build-up of moisture.
Window sealing, or window gaskets, are a critical element of any double glazing door or window. These gaskets seal the enclosed space between your window glass to stop drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. Gaskets can degrade or shrink in time due to weather, temperature conditions and aging, meaning that you may notice condensation forming on your double-glazed windows or doors.
This can be repaired however, it will require replacement of the "sandwich" (thermo-pane and glass) in your double glazing window. It is recommended that unless you have the proper tools, you hire an expert to re-seal your double-glazed window.
Another frequent issue is mist that occurs between double-glazed windows. This is an issue that is difficult to fix. This is a sign that the seal on the vacuum by the factory has failed and that there is no way to get dry air into or out of the window sandwich.
A professional will reseal the window with the same method as they would with fog or condensation issues. This usually involves removing a sandwich and spraying the cleaning solution on it, and then sucking the old sealing agent. It is vital to take measurements of the sandwich in terms of width, length and thickening. This will ensure that the new one fits perfectly and that a new seal can be drawn.
This can be a challenging job and requires specialised tools that aren't typically available in DIY stores. It's normally best left to professionals because faulty seals can result in damp and mold within your home, which could be expensive and dangerous to your health.
Water Leaks
If you notice that water is leaking around your double glazing windows it's important to act fast. The smallest leak can turn into a big problem when not dealt with quickly.
Sometimes, the window frame itself could be the culprit. Check that the sill pan, the flat base of the window frame, is pitched so that water is able to drain away from your home and not into the frame. If you find that the sill pan isn't properly pitched or you see water inside the wood, you should consult an expert in double-glazing repair.
A damaged window seal is another frequent reason for leaks. This can be caused by weather, age, or damage. It's not as simple to fix and is typically best left to the experts.
This can result in a decrease in efficiency of energy. This allows cold air to enter your home in winter, and hot gas to escape during summer. This can lead to high costs for cooling and heating.
The simplest way to fix this is to apply a new layer of caulking. While it is possible for those with a few DIY abilities to do this on their own it is normally much easier to let a double-glazing expert handle it for you. This way you will get a guarantee and peace of mind that the job is done properly.
Double-glazing windows can have warranties up to 20 years. It is a good idea to check with the company you bought windows from to determine what warranties they provide and for how long. You can avoid the expense of having to replace double-glazed windows in the future. If you have an insurance policy on your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to report any issues as quickly as you can. This can be done online or by contact with the company directly. This information will be useful in the event that you have to utilize the warranty.