Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing refers to panes of glass that are placed inside frames for windows or walls opening. Sometimes, the window glass gets damaged and may require repairs.
If you've noticed condensation between your windows, or a visible draft, or if handles and hinges become difficult to open, it is a sign that your double glazing needs repair. This repair usually involves a resealing of the entire unit.
Broken Panes
Double-glazed windows comprise of two glass panes, with an air gap that is filled with inert gases such as Krypton or argon. This helps keep the heat in your home and prevent cold drafts and moisture from escaping. Sometimes, windows may become damaged, and if this happens the entire window could require replacement. If you notice cracks or chips in the window, it is crucial to contact the company that sold you the double glazing as soon as you can inform them of the issue and inquire for a repair.
It is possible to fix a broken pane of glass by following a few easy steps, however it is not recommended unless you are experienced in DIY. First of all you'll require gloves and remove the damaged pane. If the pane is cracked, use masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern over the cracks. This will stop the cracks from becoming worse over time, particularly during the winter. It is also an excellent idea to cover your work surface with newspaper in case any broken pieces fall off. Once the broken pane has been removed, scrape away any existing glazing putty or window seal with the help of a putty knife. Then, remove the glazing points using pliers. Then, use a primer that dries quickly to cover the wood surface.
If you are able to buy a new replacement pane take measurements of the length and width of the grooved channel with a tape measure. Subtract 1/8" from both measurements to allow for the slight movement of the replacement pane. Then, slide the new pane into position and roll thin pieces of glazing compound into the grooved channels. Tap the glass gently with the hammer every 6" or 8" to help it set in its place. Be careful not to break it.
If you have a double glazing warranty it is often worth trying to use this to avoid the expense of a full replacement window. In general the warranty will cover the cost of the components and labour. It is important to check the specifics of your warranty as they will differ from one company to the next, so make sure you know the coverage and when.
Foggy Glass
Condensation in the panes of your double glazing could cause foggy glass. It can be caused by many things, including temperature fluctuations, when the frames aren't set properly, or even the aging of the seals themselves.
The good thing is that, in the majority of cases it can be fixed easily by a professional double glazing installer. It's important to contact the company who installed your windows immediately if you notice any issue, and follow this up in writing. It will be easier to reach out to the company if you need to contact them later. This is also helpful when your warranty or guarantee covers the problem.
It is possible to resolve the issue by replacing the seals on the gaskets. This won't need replacing your entire window unit. It will make your home energy efficient. To do this the window glazier must take off any retaining clips or strips that hold the IGU in place, and then cut through the sealant with the aid of a saw.
Then, they'll build or buy an IGU replacement that fits the frame and apply special sealants to ensure it's airand water-tight. When they're done they'll install the retaining clips or strips and then apply sealant to make sure it's secure.
If you're lucky, the misting will end after this. It's essential that your frames are properly ventilated to prevent moisture from building up in your walls or ceilings.
Another issue that is frequently faced by owners of double glazing is that their windows or doors become difficult to close and open - this can be the result of extreme weather conditions, or it could mean that the frame has dropped or sagged a bit over time, and isn't sitting in line with the rest of your home. If this is the problem then you could try wiping the frames with cold-water to shrink them a bit. However, this will not solve the issue completely. If you can't get the problem to go away, you may require replacement by professionals.
Condensation
Condensation happens when the insulating gas in double-glazed windows fails to hold its place, allowing moisture and air between the panes. It is more common during winter, when humidity levels are higher. However it can also occur at other times. Moisture can cause mould and mildew to form around window frames, sealants and sills. This isn't just ugly, but also dangerous for your health. A window expert can usually reseal condensation to reduce the amount of moisture and stop the accumulation of moisture within your home.
Window gaskets are an important element of any double-glazed windows or door. These gaskets seal the insulated space between your window glass to stop drafts, moisture, and heat from entering or leaving your home. These gaskets can perish or shrink over time due to temperature fluctuations, weather conditions, and aging, which means that you might notice condensation forming on your 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 glazed window with a precise replacement. It is recommended that, unless you have the correct tools, you get a professional to re-seal double-glazed windows.
Mist between your double glazed windows is another common problem that can be a challenge to solve. This indicates that the factory vacuum seal has failed and there is no way to get air in or out of the sandwich.
Professionals will reseal the window using the same procedure they would employ to solve a condensation problem or fog. This usually involves removing the sandwich and spraying the cleaning agent on it, and then sucking out the sealing agent. It is essential to precisely measure the sandwich's length, width and thickness so that the replacement is a perfect fit and a new vacuum seal can be drawn between the glass.
This can be a challenging job that requires special tools that aren't commonly available in DIY stores. It's normally best left to the professionals as incorrect seals can cause mold and dampness in your home which can be both costly and hazardous to your health.
Water Leaks
If you notice that water is leaking around your double glazing windows it's important to take action quickly. Even the smallest leak could become a huge issue if not addressed quickly.
Often times the window frame itself could be the culprit. Check that double glazing repair East Grinstead , the flat bottom of the window frame, is pitched in a way that water is able to drain away from your home and not into the frame. If the sill isn't properly pitched or you notice moisture in the wood you will need to contact a double glazing repair company to get professional assistance.
A damaged window seal is another frequent cause of leaks. This is usually caused by the weather, damage or age. This is not an easy fix and should be left to professionals.
This can result in lower energy efficiency. This also allows cold air to enter your home during the winter, and hot air to escape during summer. This can lead to high costs for cooling and heating.
The most simple method to fix this is to apply a new layer of caulking. Although those with DIY skills can do this themselves but it is generally better to have a double glazing expert handle it. In this way, you'll have a guarantee and assurance that the job is done properly.
Double-glazing windows can have warranties that last up to 20 years. It is best to contact the company who sold you windows to determine what warranty they offer and how long they last. 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 crucial to register any issues as soon as you can. This can be done online or by contacting the company directly. This information is useful if you need to use the warranty.