Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing is the term used to describe panes of glass in the frame of a window or wall opening. Sometimes, this window glass gets damaged and may require repairs.
If you've noticed condensation between your windows, a noticeable draft, or hinges or handles become difficult to open, this could be an indication that your double glazing requires repair. This repair usually involves a resealing of the entire unit.
Broken Panes
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes, with an air space between them, which is filled with inert gasses like argon and krypton. This keeps the heat in your home, while also preventing cold drafts and moisture from entering. Sometimes windows get damaged and when this happens the entire window might require replacement. It is important that you contact the company who sold you the double glazing when you notice cracks or chips appearing in the window.
It is possible to fix a broken pane of glass with just a few steps, but it is not recommended unless you have previous experience in DIY. Put on some gloves first and then carefully remove the damaged window pane. If it's cracked press strips of masking tape across the areas that are cracked in a crisscrossing pattern. This will prevent the cracks from worsening over time, especially during the winter. It is also an excellent idea to cover the surface with newspaper in case any broken pieces fall off. Once the damaged pane has been removed scrape away any glazing putty or glazed window seal with a putty knife and remove the glazing points with pliers. Finally, paint the bare wood with an easy-drying primer.
Find the length and width of the grooved channels with the help of a tape. Subtract 1/8'' from both measurements to allow for a slight movement of the new pane. Then, slide the replacement pane into position and roll thin pieces of glazing compound into the channels with grooves. Tap gently using a hammer at 6 8'' intervals to help set the glass in its place, but be careful not to break the glass.
It is a good idea to take advantage of your double glazing warranty to prevent the cost of a complete replacement window. In general the warranty will cover the cost of the parts and labour. It is crucial to review the details of your guarantee as it will vary from one company to the next so be sure to understand what is covered and when.
Foggy Glass
Foggy glass is often caused by condensation between the panes of your double glazing. It could be due to many things including temperatures, improperly installed frames, or even the deteriorating seals.
In the majority of instances, double glazing installers are able to fix this problem quickly and easily. It's important to contact the company that installed your windows when you discover any issue, and follow this up in writing. This will make it easier if you need to contact them later on - and can prove extremely useful if the problem is covered under your warranty or guarantee.
The most effective way to stop the fogging is by replacing the gasket seals. This is done without the need to replace the entire window unit and will aid in keeping your home energy efficient. The window glazier will remove any clips or retaining strips that hold the IGU and then make use of the saw to cut through the old sealant.
They'll then build or order an IGU that is designed to fit inside the frame, and they'll use special sealants to make sure it's air-tight and watertight. When they're done, they'll reinstall the clips or strips that hold it and apply more sealant to ensure that it's secure.
If you are lucky, the misting will stop. It's essential that your frames are properly ventilated to stop moisture from accumulating within your ceilings or walls.
Double glazing owners also report that their doors and windows are difficult to open and close. This can be due to extreme weather conditions or because the frame has sagged over time and is not flush with the rest your home. If this is the case then you could try wiping down the frames with cold water to shrink them slightly. However, this won't solve the problem completely. If you're unable to get the problem to go away, you might require replacing them by professionals.
Condensation
Condensation occurs when the insulating gasses in double glazing windows do not hold their place leaving air and moisture between the panes. This is more prevalent in winter when humidity levels are higher. However, it can also happen at other times. The accumulation of moisture can lead to mildew and mould around sills, sealants and window frames which is not only unsightly but also dangerous to your health. A window professional can often reseal condensation to reduce humidity and prevent the accumulation of moisture in your home.
Window gaskets are an essential component of any double-glazed window or door. They help seal in the insulated air between your window glass and stop drafts, heat, and moisture from entering or leaving your home. These gaskets may shrink or become brittle because of temperature fluctuations, weather conditions, and the aging process. You may see condensation on your double-glazed windows or doors.
It is possible to fix this however it would require replacing the'sandwich' (thermo-pane and glass) of your double-glazing window with an exact replacement. If you don't have the proper tools it is recommended that you hire a professional to re-seal your double-glazed windows.
Another common problem is mist that occurs between double-glazed windows. This can be an issue that is difficult to fix. This is a sign that the vacuum seal in the factory has failed and there is no way to get air out or in the sandwich.
A professional will reseal the window using the same process as they would for a condensation or fog problem. This will normally involve removing the thermo-pane sandwich, spraying it with a cleaning solution and then sucking the sealant out of the old. It is crucial to measure the'sandwich,' both in terms of length, width and thickness. This will ensure that the new one is perfectly sized and that a new seal can be drawn.
This can be a tricky job and requires specialised tools that aren't typically found in DIY stores. It's normally best left to professionals because faulty seals can lead to mold and damp in your home that can be both costly and hazardous to your health.
Water Leaks
It is crucial to act when you begin to notice water leaks from your double-glazed windows. If you don't act quickly even the tiniest leak could be a huge issue.
Sometimes, the window frame itself could be to blame. Verify that the sill which is the flat base of the window frame, is pitched in a way that water drains away from your house and not into the frame. If the sill pan isn't pitched correctly or if you see moisture in the wood, you must contact a double glazing repair business for professional help.
A damaged window seal is another common cause of leaks. This can be due to age damage, weather, or any other. It's not as simple to fix and is typically best left to the experts.
A window seal that is damaged can allow air to pass through the windows, which makes it less efficient in energy use. This allows cold air into your home in winter and hot gas to escape in summer. window repair can result in high heating and cooling costs.
The simplest method to fix this is to apply a fresh layer of caulking. Although those who have DIY skills can do this themselves however, it is more efficient to have a double glazing expert handle it. This way you will get the assurance and peace of mind that the job will be done right.
Some double glazing windows have warranties that last up to 20 years. It is best to contact the company who sold you your windows to find out the warranty they provide and how long it lasts. You can save the cost of having to replace double-glazed windows later on. If you have an insurance policy on your double-glazed windows, it is essential to make sure to report any issues as soon as possible. This can be done online or by calling the company directly. All of this information in writing will also be helpful if you ever require the use of your warranty.