Double Glazing Window Repair
Over time, double glazing can create problems, such as being difficult to open windows or doors that is snagged. Fortunately the problems can be solved with ease.
Many homeowners attempt to fix these issues themselves, however, this should be left to the experts. Doing this without the proper tools and knowledge can cause damage.
Broken Panes
A damaged or broken window can be a gruelling and annoying issue. It can let cold or hot air into your home and leave a gap that allows debris or moisture to enter. It also reduces the efficiency of your energy, since your AC and furnace have to work harder to keep your home cool. Depending on the weather conditions and whether you have single-pane or double-pane windows, you may be able to repair the damage by using silicone sealant. However, a permanent fix will require professional help.
A cracked window can be fixed using strong-duty tape. A piece of tape could be placed over the crack to stop it from becoming worse. A crack that extends through the glass, or is too large to be covered with tape will need to be replaced completely.
Broken glass can result from various factors: a pebble from the lawnmowers that hits the window; drinking a drink that is set too heavily on a table with a glass top; or a pet’s excited jump when you open the front door. The frames of your window can move over time and break the plastic that holds the glass sheets in position.
If you’ve got a broken glass pane, you should wear thick gloves and place a cardboard box near to collect the shards. Then remove the frame’s sash and work on a flat surface like tables. Wear a mask so as not to inhale the glass shards.
After you have removed the old glass, clean any varnish or paint from the window frame. You can use a heating gun to soften the old glazing putty or the metal points which held the glass in position.
You can then determine the opening size for the new pane. It is recommended to purchase replacement glass slightly smaller than the opening of the original to allow for expansion and contraction. Visit your local hardware store or home center cut the glass according to these measurements.
Press the new glass into the frame. If there are any gaps, you can fill them with silicone caulk that you can buy at a home improvement store. Then, smooth the caulk with a putty knife. Attach glazier’s tips to the edges of the glass frame about every six inches, to ensure that they secure the pane in the frame.
Condensation
Whether your double glazing windows are old or brand new it’s common for them to experience condensation. This is especially the case in winter when colder air collides with warm glass. It can be a problem but it is not usually an issue. This is because condensation on windows actually means that your double glazing is working correctly.
It can be an indication that your seal is not working and moisture is leaking through the gap. If you notice a milky look on your window or if water beads appear across its surface, this needs to be addressed to prevent mold, mildew, or further damage.
Condensation can be easily eliminated. A technician will drill small holes into the frame of the window to allow the moisture that has been trapped escape. This process is known as defogging. It may also be used to remove stains that are caused by moisture that has been trapped.
Defogging does not fix the root issue of a damaged window seal. In fact, it might not even in the event that the condensation is gone, since the damaged air that was between the panes remains. This could mean that you’re not getting as much insulation as you could from your windows.
It’s important to consult an expert as soon you discover that your windows are damp to determine the next steps. They might be able to recommend a solution, such as adding vents in the windows to let fresh air in, but not allowing warm air to escape.
The final thing you would like is for your double glazing to fail, especially when it’s costly to replace. Fortunately, with the right knowledge, skills and tools, it’s possible to repair your double glazing and keep it in good condition for the long term. If you require a double glazing repair call us now to find out what we can do to help. We provide a range of services, from replacing one or more panes glass to installing energy-efficient upgrades.
Leaks
A leak can be a major issue as it indicates that you may have damp ingress that can cause damage. It can be costly to repair, and it’s usually an indication that your home is suffering from other issues like mould or dry rot. This is why it’s essential to address a leak as soon as possible.
If you notice that the windows of your double-glazed windows are noisy, it is likely that the seal has failed. This may also mean that there is no longer any gas argon between the glass panes that is used to insulate the windows. A specialist technician can reseal your window to solve this problem.
Sometimes dirt can cause double-glazed windows to be cloudy or hazy. This is usually an indication that the seal is deteriorating and the glass must be cleaned. A specialist can accomplish this by using high-pressure water jets to quickly clean the glass.
If condensation develops between the two panes of your double glazing, it’s an indication that the seal is leaking and there isn’t any argon left between the glass. This is a serious problem and could mean that your double glazing isn’t effectively insulating your home, as it should. It can be fixed by replacing the glass unit, however it must be done sooner rather than later as the performance of your double-glazed window will be affected.
If you have new double-glazed windows that are under warranty, you must contact the company that installed them and report any issues with the units or the sealing of the glass, as it is unlikely to be covered by the warranty. You’ll lose your warranty if you attempt to repair the units yourself or double glazing repair tamper them. This is the reason we suggest using a specialist double glazing repair service.
Weather Damage
Double-glazed windows need a strong frame to hold the glass panes together and ensure they stay in place, especially in areas of extreme weather. Ice, snow high winds, and storms that are tumultuous can cause damage to your windows. If you notice cracks, dents or holes in your window, contact a professional for a double glazing repair.
If you notice that water is running down the sides of the window, it may be an indication that the seal on the inside is cracked and allows moisture into your home. The uPVC window frame or aluminum window frames might also be bent or warped. To fix this, you’ll need to replace the window seal and then re-insert it into the frame.
Window seals ensure that double-glazed windows are airtight. keep heat from entering your home and stop condensation between the glass panes. Window seals, which keep the glass in place, are made of upvc window repairs or aluminum. If the window seals fail, you could be faced with issues like energy loss, draughts and windows that are misty.
Misting windows are a common issue that is the result of the insulating gas inside the double-glazed window deteriorating. The argon gasses keep the glass in place and create a airtight seal however if the glass is damaged or worn out, the gases could escape. The escaped argon gases can lead to condensation between the glass panes.
This issue can be resolved by replacing the window seal, inserting the glass, and then applying an anti-fogging agent to avoid condensation in the future. It is recommended to hire professionals to do the work for you.
While it is essential to have double-glazed windows they aren’t immune to damage and will need to be repaired at times. The majority of windows can be repaired without needing to replace them. It is best to have a few basic tools available. You will need protective gloves, a tape measure, scotch tape, or a transparent film and nail polish and a plastic sheet that is cut to size.