Twenty Myths About Double Glazing Windows Repairs: Busted
Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing consists of two panes within a frame or opening in a wall. The window glass can be damaged and may require repairs.
If you have noticed condensation between your windows, or a noticeable draft, or if handles and hinges become difficult to open, this could be a sign that your double glazing requires repair. This repair usually requires a reseal 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 such as argon and krypton. This helps keep heat in your home and prevents cold drafts from getting in. Occasionally the windows can become damaged and when this happens, the entire window could require replacement. It is important that you contact the company that sold you double glazing immediately when you notice a chip or crack in the window.
It is possible to repair a broken pane of glass with just a few steps, however it is not recommended unless you have previous experience in DIY. First of all, you will have to put on gloves and carefully remove the broken pane. If the pane is cracked, installers apply masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern to the areas that are cracked. This will prevent the cracks from becoming worse over time, especially in the winter. It is also advisable to cover your work surface in newspapers to prevent any broken pieces from falling. After the broken pane has been removed using a putty knife, you can use it to scrape off any glazing putty and the glazed window seal. Remove the glazing points using pliers. Then, apply a primer that dries quickly to cover the wood surface.
If you're able to purchase a 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 slight movement of the new pane. Then, slide the new pane into place and roll a thin rope of glazing compound inside the grooved channels. Tap the glass gently using the hammer every 6" or 8" to help it set in place. Be careful not to break it.
It is worth using your double glazing warranty to save the cost of a complete replacement window. Generally the warranty will cover the cost of any part that you require replacing, as well as labor. It is important to verify the warranty details as they can differ from company to company.
Foggy Glass
Condensation between the panes in your double glazing can cause foggy glass. This can be caused by a variety of things, including fluctuations in temperature, in the event that the frames aren't fitted correctly, and even ageing of the seals themselves.
In the majority of cases, double glazing installers can fix this problem quickly and easily. Contact the company that installed your windows as soon as you find any issues. Then follow up with a written response. This will make it easier in the event that you have to contact them again later on - and can be extremely helpful when the issue is covered under your warranty or guarantee.
It is possible to solve the issue by replacing the seals on the gaskets. This won't require you to replace the entire window unit, and will help keep your home efficient in terms of energy use. To accomplish this the window glazier must take off any clips or strips that hold 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 then they'll apply special sealants to ensure it's air - and watertight. Once they're finished they'll install the clips or strips that hold it and then apply sealant to ensure it's secure.
If you're lucky the misting will cease. However, it's important to ensure your frames are ventilated properly so that moisture doesn't accumulate within your ceilings and walls.
Double glazing owners also report that their doors and windows are difficult to open or close. This can be due to extreme weather conditions or the frame has sagged over time and isn't in line with the rest of your home. If this is the case, try wiping the frames with cold water to shrink them a little - but it's unlikely that this will resolve the issue completely. If you're unable to resolve the issue, you may need to hire a professional to replace the frames.
Condensation
Condensation happens when the insulating 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 typically higher, but it can happen at other times of year too. Moisture can cause mildew and mould to develop around window frames, sealants and sills. This isn't just unattractive, but it's extremely harmful to your health. A window professional can often reseal condensation to reduce the amount of moisture and stop the build-up of moisture in your home.
Window sealing, also known as window gaskets, are a critical element of any double glazing window or door. They help seal in the air that is insulated between your window glass and prevent drafts, heat, and moisture from entering or leaving your home. These gaskets can perish or shrink in time due to temperature fluctuations, weather conditions and aging, meaning that you might notice condensation developing on double glazed window repairs near me-glazed windows or doors.
It is possible to repair it however, it will require replacing the "sandwich" (thermo-pane and glass) in your double glazing window. If you don't have the proper tools it is recommended you hire a professional to re-seal your double-glazed windows.
Another issue that is common is the mist that forms between double-glazed windows. This is difficult to resolve. This indicates that the vacuum seal applied in the factory has failed and that there is no way to let dry air inside or out of the window sandwich.
A professional will reseal your window with the same method as they would with the fog or condensation issue. This typically involves removing the sandwich and spraying the cleaning agent on it, and then sucking out the sealing agent. It is important that you accurately measure the'sandwich' in length, width and thickness so that the replacement is an exact fit and a new seal can be drawn between the glass.
This is a difficult job that requires special tools that aren't typically available in DIY stores. It is recommended to leave this job to professionals since faulty seals can result in damp and mold in your home. This can be costly and dangerous to your health.
Water Leaks
It is crucial to act when you notice water leaking from your double-glazed windows. If you don't take action quickly even the tiniest leak could become a major issue.
The window frame could be the cause. Make sure that the sill pan (the part that is flat at the bottom of the window frame) is pitched to drain water away from your home, and not into the window frame itself. If you see that the sill pan has not been properly pitched or you see water inside the wood, you should call an expert in double-glazing repair.
A damaged window seal is another frequent cause of leaks. This could be due to age, damage or weather. This isn't an easy fix and should be left to the experts.
This can result in an increase in efficiency of energy. This can also allow cold air to enter your home in the winter months and hot air 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. Although people with DIY skills are able to do this on their own, it is usually easier to have a double glazing specialist handle it. This way, you'll get the assurance and peace of mind that the job is done properly.
Double-glazing windows are available with warranties that last up to 20 years. It is an excellent idea to inquire with the manufacturer you bought 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 essential to report the problem with them immediately you spot any issues. This can be done online or by contact with the company directly. This information will be useful should you require the warranty.
