Double Glazing Window Repair
Over time double glazing may create problems, such as being difficult to open windows or doors that is snagged. Fortunately the problems can be fixed without difficulty.
Many homeowners attempt to fix these problems themselves. However this should be left to experts. It's dangerous to fix these problems without the right tools and information.
Broken Panes
A damaged window is an annoying and inconvenient issue. It can let cold or hot air into your home, and leave a gap that lets in debris or moisture. It can also decrease the efficiency of your energy, since your AC and furnace will have to perform more to keep your home cool. Depending on the weather and whether you have single or double-pane windows, you might be able to temporarily repair the damage by using silicone sealant. However for a permanent fix, you will require professional help.
A window that is cracked can be fixed with heavy-duty tape. A tape strip placed over a crack can prevent it from getting worse. A crack that is large enough to penetrate the glass, or is too large to be covered with tape will need to be completely replaced.
The excitement of a pet when you open the door could cause broken glass. The frames of your window could shift over time and break the packaging material that holds the glass sheets in place.
Wear thick work gloves when you have a broken pane of glass. Place a cardboard box near the pane to catch any fragments. Take the sash off and work on an even surface, such as a table. Wear a mask to prevent breathing in the glass shattering.
Once the old glass is removed, clean any varnish or paint that is on the window's frame. You could also use a heat gun to soften any old glazing putty or metal glazing points that held the glass in the first place.
You can then take measurements of the opening to make the new pane. To allow for expansion and contraction you should always purchase the replacement glass slightly smaller than the opening. You can ask your local hardware store or your home center cut it according to these dimensions.
Place the glass into the frame. If there are any gaps, fill them in with silicone caulk that you can buy at a local home improvement store. Smooth the caulk using a putty knife. Add glazier's points to the frames and corners of the glass about every six inches, so that the pane is securely held in place.
Condensation
No matter if your double-glazed windows are new or old it's quite common for them to develop condensation. This is particularly true in winter when colder air is able to meet warmer glass. While it can cause some issues, it's generally a problem. This is because condensation on windows actually means that your double glazing is functioning properly.
It could be a sign that your seal is failing and moisture is leaking through the gap. You may notice a milky look on the window, or water beads appearing across its surface, and this will need to be addressed to stop mold, mildew, or other damage.
Fortunately condensation can be gotten rid of quite easily. A technician will drill a tiny number of holes in the window frame, which allow the trapped moisture to escape. This process is called defogging. It can be used to check here get rid of staining caused by moisture that has been trapped.
The defrogging process does not solve the underlying issue of a failing window seal. It might not even work if the condensation has disappeared due to the damaged air between the panes might remain. This could mean that you still not get as much insulation from your windows as you should.
It is essential to consult an expert as soon as you detect moisture in your windows to determine the next steps. They may be able to suggest a solution such as adding vents in the windows to let fresh air enter but without letting warm air escape.
The final thing you would like to happen is for your double glazing to fail, especially when it's costly to replace. With the right skills, knowledge and equipment, it's possible to fix your double glazing and keep it in top condition for years to come. If you need a double glazing repair call us now to find out how we can help. We provide a range of services ranging from replacing one or more panes of tempered glass, to installing energy efficient upgrades.
Leaks
Leaks can cause damage and are costly to fix. It's costly to repair, and it's often a sign that your property is suffering from other issues like mould or dry rot. This is why it's crucial to take care of leaks promptly.
If you feel an air draught emanating from your double-glazed windows, it's most likely that the seal inside the sealed unit has been damaged. It could also mean there is no longer any gas called argon in the glass panes which is used to create insulation. This can be fixed by a specialist technician who will reseal the window.
Double-glazed windows may become cloudy or misty because of dirt. This is usually a sign that the seal is degrading and the glass needs to be cleaned. This can be done by a specialist using high pressure water jets which will quickly clear the glass of any dirt or debris.
If however, condensation is beginning to form between the two glass panes in your double glazing then this is a sign that the seal has developed to leak and that there is no longer any argon in the panes of glass. This is a serious problem and could indicate that your double glazing is not adequately insulate your home effectively as it ought to. The glass unit can be replaced, but you'll need to do it sooner rather than later, as the performance of the double-glazed window has been impacted.
If you have double-glazed windows under warranty, you must contact the installer and report any issues with the units or the sealing of the glass. It is highly unlikely that the warranty will be able to address these issues. You will lose your warranty in the event that you attempt to repair the units yourself or alter them. This is why we recommend hiring a professional double glazing repair company.
Weather Damage
Double-glazed windows require a sturdy frame to keep the glass panes in place and ensure they stay in place, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Ice snow high winds and tumultuous storms can all cause damage to your windows. Call a professional to repair double glazing if you spot cracks, dents or holes.
If you notice that water is running down the sides of the window, it could be a sign that the seal on the inside has been damaged and is allowing water into your home. Additionally, your uPVC or aluminum window frame could be bending or warping. To fix this, you will need to replace the window seal and then re-insert it into the frame.
Window seals are used to ensure that double-glazed windows are airtight and keep heat from getting out of your home, as well as preventing condensation between the glass panes. Window seals are typically comprised of uPVC or aluminum and keep the glass in place. You can experience problems like the loss of energy and draughts if the window seals fail.
The failure of the gaseous insulation in double-glazed windows is the common cause of misting windows. The argon gases keep the glass in place and create an airtight sealing, but if it is damaged or worn out, the gases could escape. The argon gas could cause condensation between the glass panes if it escapes.
This problem can be fixed by replacing the window seal, then re-inserting the glass and then applying an anti-fogging agent to avoid condensation from occurring in the future. It is best to hire a professional to do the work for you.
While it is important to have double-glazed windows they aren't immune to damage and will need to be repaired from time to time. Fortunately, most windows can be repaired without the need for replacement. To accomplish this, it's a good idea to have some basic tools at hand. You'll need a an insulated glove, a tape, transparent film or nail polish, scotchtape and an aluminum sheet.