Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing refers to panes of glass within a window frame or wall opening. The window glass can be damaged and require repairs.
If you have noticed condensation between your windows, or a visible draft, or if hinges or handles become difficult to open, this is a sign that your double glazing needs repair. 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 that is filled with inert gases such as Krypton or argon. This helps keep heat in your home and blocks cold drafts from getting in. Sometimes, windows will be damaged, and the entire window will need to be replaced. It is crucial to contact the company who sold you double glazing immediately in the event that you spot cracks or chips in the window.
It is possible to fix the glass pane that has broken with just a few steps, however it is not recommended unless you have experience in DIY. Put on gloves first and carefully remove the broken window pane. If the pane is cracked, use masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern over the cracked areas. This will stop the cracks from becoming worse as time passes, especially in the winter. It is also advisable to protect your work area with newspapers to stop any broken pieces from falling. 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. Then, apply a primer that dries quickly to cover the wood surface.
If you're able to buy a new 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 a slight movement of the new pane. Then, slide the replacement pane in place and then roll a thin rope of glazing compound into the channels with grooves. Tap the glass gently using the hammer every 6" or 8" to help it set in its place. Be careful not to break it.
It is worth using your double glazing warranty to avoid the expense of a full replacement window. In general, the warranty will cover the cost of the parts and labor. It is essential to verify the details of your guarantee as they will differ from one company to another, so make sure you know the coverage and when.
Foggy Glass
Condensation between the panes in your double glazing can cause foggy glass. This can be due to many things, such as variations in temperature, poorly installed frames, or the deteriorating seals.
The good news is that, in the majority of cases this issue can be resolved easily by an experienced double glazing installer. You should contact the company that installed your windows immediately if you notice any problems. Then follow up with a written response. It will be much easier to reach out to the company if you need to contact them later. It is also beneficial in the event that your warranty or guarantee covers the issue.
It is possible to solve the issue by replacing the seals on the gaskets. This will not require you to replace your entire window unit. It will make your home more efficient in terms of energy use. To do this the window glazier must remove any retaining clips or strips that keep the IGU in place and then cut through the old sealant using a saw.
They'll then design or order an IGU that is designed to fit the frame, and then they'll apply special sealants to ensure that it's air and watertight. Once Croydon window repairs finished installing the clips, they'll either reinstall them or strip them and apply more sealant.
If you are lucky, the misting will stop. It's essential that your frames are properly ventilated to stop the build-up of moisture in your ceilings or 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 simply because the frame has sagged over time and is not in line with the rest of your home. If this is the case, try wiping the frames with cold water in order to shrink them down slightly - however, it's unlikely to solve the problem completely. If you're unable to resolve the issue, you may require an expert to replace the frames.
Condensation
Condensation occurs when the insulation gas in double glazing windows fails to hold its place, leaving 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 can cause mildew and mould to grow around window frames, sealants and sills. It's not just ugly, but also dangerous for your health. A window specialist can often seal condensation to decrease the amount of moisture and stop the accumulation of moisture in your home.
Window sealing, or window gaskets are a crucial part of any double glazing window or door. These gaskets seal the enclosed space between your window glass to keep drafts, moisture, and heat from entering or leaving your home. These gaskets can perish or shrink in 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 repair this however it will require replacing the'sandwich' (thermo-pane and glass) of your double glazing window with an exact replacement. Unless you have the right tools for the job, it is recommended that you get a professional to seal your double-glazed windows.
Mist in your double-glazed windows is another common problem that is difficult to solve. This indicates that the seal on the vacuum in the factory has failed, and that there is no way to move dry air in or out of the window sandwich.
Professionals will reseal the window by using the same method they would employ to solve the issue of condensation or fog. This usually involves removing a sandwich and spraying the cleaning agent on it, and then sucking out the old sealing agent. It is important that you accurately measure the'sandwich' in length, width and thickness so that the replacement is a perfect fit and a new seal can be drawn between the glass.
This can be a challenging task that requires specialized tools that aren't usually available in DIY stores. It is recommended to leave this job to professionals as incorrect seals could cause mold and damp in your home. This can be costly and dangerous to your health.
Water Leaks
If you see water getting into your double glazing windows, it is important to respond quickly. The smallest leak can become a major issue in the event that it is not addressed promptly.
The window frame could be the culprit. Make sure that the sill pan which is the flat bottom of the frame, is pitched so that water runs away from your home and not into the frame. If the sill isn't properly pitched or if you see moisture in the wood you should contact a double glazing repair business for professional help.
A damaged window seal is a frequent reason for leaks. This can be due to age or damage, or even weather. This isn't as easy to fix and is usually best left to the experts.
A broken window seal can let air in through the windows which makes it less efficient in energy use. This can also allow cold air to enter your home during the winter months and hot air to escape in 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. While it is possible for people who have DIY skills to do this themselves, it is generally much more efficient to let a double-glazing specialist handle it for you. You will have peace of mind and a guarantee that the job has been done correctly.
Some double-glazing windows come with warranties of up to 20 years. It is recommended to check with the company that sold you windows to determine what warranty they offer and how long it lasts. You can avoid the expense of replacing double-glazed windows in the future. If your double glazed windows are covered by a warranty, it is crucial to report the problem when you discover any issues. This can be done online or by calling the company directly. The information you have in writing will also be useful if you ever require the use of your warranty.
