Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing is the usage of two panes within frames or openings in the wall. The window glass can become faulty at times and requires repairs.
If you've noticed condensation in between the windows or noticed a distinct draught or hinges and handles are becoming difficult to open, these are all signs that your double glazing needs to be fixed. The repair typically 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 gases like Krypton and argon. This helps to keep the heat inside your home, while also preventing cold drafts and moisture from getting in. Sometimes windows get damaged, and if this happens the entire window could require replacement. It is crucial to contact the company who supplied you with double glazing immediately in the event that you spot cracks or chips appearing in the window.
It is possible to repair damaged glass with a few simple steps, but it is not recommended unless you have previous experience in DIY. First you'll have to put on gloves and remove the damaged pane. If the pane is cracked, use masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern over the areas that are cracked. This will prevent the cracks from getting more severe as time passes, especially in the winter. You should also cover the work surface with newspapers to stop any broken pieces from falling. After the broken pane is removed then use a putty blade to scrape away any glazing putty or glazed window seal. Remove the glazing points using pliers. Then, apply a primer that dries quickly to apply a coat of primer on the wooden surface.
Find the length and width of the grooved channels using a tape. Subtract 1/8" from both measurements to account for the slight movement of the replacement pane. Then, roll a short rope of glazing compound into the grooved channels and then slide the glass into place. Tap gently with the hammer at 6 intervals of 8 inches to help set the glass in place, but be careful not to break the glass.
It is worth using your double glazing warranty to save the cost of a complete replacement window. In general the warranty will cover both the cost of the parts and labour. You should check the details because they may differ from company to company.
Foggy Glass
Foggy glass is often caused by condensation between the panes of your double glazing. It can be caused by many factors, such as temperature fluctuations, if the frames aren't installed correctly, and even ageing of the seals themselves.
In most cases, double glazing installers can fix this problem quickly and easily. It is essential to contact the company who installed your windows immediately if you notice a problem, and always follow this up in writing. It will be much easier to reach the company should you have to do so later. This is also helpful if your warranty or guarantee covers the problem.
It is possible to fix the issue by replacing the seals on the gaskets. This will not need replacing the entire window unit, and will make your home energy efficient. To accomplish this the window glazier must remove any clips or strips that hold the IGU in place, and then cut through the sealant using a saw.
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 - and watertight. When they're done, they'll reinstall the clips or strips that hold it and apply more sealant to make sure it's secure.
If you're lucky, the misting may stop after this. It is essential that your frames are ventilated properly to stop the build-up of moisture 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 open and close This could be due to extreme weather, or it could mean that the frame has dropped or sagged over time, and isn't sitting at a level with the rest of your house. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames with cold water to shrink them slightly. But this won't resolve the issue completely. If you still can't solve the issue, you may require the help of a professional to replace the frames.
Condensation
Condensation occurs when the insulation gas in double-glazed windows fails to hold its place, leaving air and moisture between the panes. This is more prevalent in winter, when humidity levels tend to be higher. However it can also occur at other times. Moisture build up can cause mould and mildew around sills windows, sealants and window frames which are not only ugly but also dangerous to your health. The good part is that condensation can frequently be sealed by a window expert to help reduce moisture in your home and prevent moisture from building up.
Window sealing, also known as window gaskets, are a critical component of any double-glazed door or window. These gaskets seal the insulated space between your window glass to keep drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. These gaskets can perish or shrink in time due to weather, temperature conditions and ageing, meaning that condensation could be developing on double-glazed windows or doors.
It is possible to repair it, but will require replacing the "sandwich" (thermo-pane and glass) inside your double-glazing window. If you don't have the proper tools to do the job it is recommended that you get a professional to seal your double-glazed windows.
Another frequent issue is mist that forms between double-glazed windows. This can be an issue that is difficult to fix. This indicates that the seal on the vacuum at the factory has failed, and there's no way to move dry air into or out of the window sandwich.
A professional will reseal your window by using the same procedure they would with fog or condensation issues. This typically involves removing the sandwich and then spraying the cleaning solution on it, followed by sucking out the old sealing agent. It is important that you precisely measure the sandwich's length width, thickness and length to ensure that the replacement is an exact fit and a new vacuum seal can be drawn between the glass.
This is a tough task that requires tools not often found in DIY stores. It is recommended to leave this job to professionals, since faulty seals can cause mold and damp in your home. This could be costly and hazardous to your health.
Water Leaks
It is crucial to act immediately if you begin to notice water leaks from your double-glazed windows. Even the smallest leak could become a huge issue in the event that it is not addressed promptly.
The window frame can be the culprit. Verify that the sill pan (the part that is flat at the bottom of the window frame) is designed to drain water away from your home and not into the frame itself. If you find that the sill pan has not been properly pitched or you see water inside the wood, you should consult a double-glazing repair service.
Another reason for water leaks is damaged window seals. This can be due to age, damage, or weather. This is not an easy fix and should be left to experts.
This could lead to a decrease in energy efficiency. This allows cold air into your home in the winter, and hot gas to escape in the summer. This can lead to high cost of cooling and heating.
It is a simple fix it by applying a new layer of caulking. Although window repairs with DIY skills can do this themselves but it is generally better to have a double-glazing specialist take care of the job. This way, you'll get the assurance and peace of mind knowing that the job is done properly.
Double-glazing windows are available with warranties of up to 20 years. You should check with the company that sold you your windows to find out the warranty they provide and for how long. You can save the cost of having to replace double-glazed windows later on. If you have a warranty on your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to register 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 useful if you ever require the use of your warranty.