Double Glazing Window Repairs
If you have your double-glazed window repairs completed will keep them working well and save you money on heating costs. A professional will make use of specific tools and know how to do the job right.
They can also provide advice on the most efficient energy-saving technologies available. Double-glazing windows can have a warranty of 10 or even 20 years. Others offer lifetime warranties.
Broken Panes
Cracks in double glazing aren't only unsightly; they're also an obstruction to cold or heat getting into or out of your home. The good news is, most damaged panes can be repaired without replacing the entire window. To prevent the crack from spreading, cover the area with packing or masking tape. The tape should be extended past the glass edges on both sides. It's also a good idea to cover the crack with plastic, such as a tarp or garbage bag, to keep insects, rain and the elements out.
Next, you'll need take the glass pane from its frame using an utility knife and gloves. It is better to remove the glass in one piece rather than breaking it into tiny shards. Be very careful because glass pieces that break could be thrown around and cause more damage. It is essential to recycle old glass properly.
After you've removed the old window, you'll have to measure the opening of the new pane. Be sure to take your measurements carefully and bear in mind that wood expands and shrinks over time. To make sure that the new pane will fit snugly, it's best to subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches from each side of the measurement. Then, have a piece double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions, and buy enough glazier's clips or glazier's points to be placed every 6 inches around the edge of the windowpane.
A professional will drill a set of holes into the window to expel any moisture, then apply a special liquid sealant to the gap. This creates an impermeable barrier that will keep your home dry and warm. The process could take between one or two days to several weeks. It is crucial that the sealant is dry before you can move to the next step.
While some double-paned windows can be repaired with this method it is generally recommended to replace the window when you experience condensation, draughts or other problems that cannot be resolved by drilling or taping. Moreover, since specialized tools are required to complete the repair properly, it's not an ideal idea to try the repair yourself unless you're an experienced DIYer.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that often occurs when there's an alteration in the temperature or humidity. It creates water droplets on cold surfaces. They can become trapped between double glazing in the event that the seal fails. The good news is that it's rarely a big deal, and there are some ways to test it before calling an expert window repair specialist.
Use a hairdryer at low heat and an appropriate distance to evaporate any moisture that's trapped between your windows. This is a temporary solution that does not stop condensation from recurring until the root of the issue is identified. The best solution is to ensure there's sufficient ventilation inside your home and you balance humidity levels. This will save you money and reduce the chance of damp and mould developing around your window.
Another option to deal with condensation is to use a defogger device. It's a tiny hole that is drilled into the inside of the double glazing and cleaning solution is spraying in, which eliminates any moisture from the air. This is a temporary measure and isn't guaranteed to eliminate condensation in the long term, but it might be a reasonable alternative until you are able to have your window fixed professionally.
Visible condensation is a key indication that the sealant between the windows of your double pane has failed. It is essential to contact your double-glazing provider immediately if you notice this and get any issues reported. It will be easier to claim your warranty in the event that it becomes necessary later on.
It's also worth oiling any mechanisms, hinges or handles on your double glazing to see if this helps. You can also use a dry cloth and remove any fog. However, this will not solve the problem - that there's no clean and dry space in between your windows. If you're unable to fix this and you're not able to fix it, then replacing your windows might be required.
Draughts
There's nothing more annoying than a cold breeze coming through your double glazing that can make your entire home feel chilly, even if the rest of the house is warm. The good news is that most draughts can be simple to fix and can save you a lot of money on your energy bills.
A draught typically originates from gaps around doors and windows. These are usually caused by poor fitting and loose plaster around the frames, rotting wood or even paintwork that is loose. Draught-proofing is a cost-effective way to reduce your energy costs. It prevents warm air from leaving your home in winter, and cold, cold air from entering your home in summer.
The best method to stop draughts is to install draught proofing strips. They are available in various materials such as brush, foam, or rubber strips and can be fitted around the bottom of the door or along the top or sides of the frame. There is also draught proofing for sash windows and casement windows. You can add brushes to sliding windows and rubber strips to casement windows.
You can also try using a draught-exclusion device in the space between your floorboards to prevent warm air from rising, causing the draw. This is only effective in the event that your floorboards aren't carpeted. You can also put an air vent cover to an open flame when it's not in use and seal the gaps under sinks, around extractor fans in chimneys, and in any other vents that aren't used in your house.
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem, which is easily fixable by establishing the seal. repairs to double glazing glazing firms will offer drilling the glass unit and put in plugs. However, this is a temporary solution. It is recommended to contact the company that installed and sold your double glazing and ask them to repair the glass unit. It may cost more however replacing the entire window will be cheaper.
Mist
The mist is caused by condensation between the panes of a double-glazed window. The sealant holding the glass together stops moisture from escaping, but it is often damaged or worn down by accidental impact or due to weathering and aging. This should be fixed as quickly as possible, as it could cause homeowners a range of problems, including damp and mould and even the cost of energy.
There is a quick and easy solution to the problem without having to replace the entire window. Making a few tiny holes in the window unit allows you to insert an desiccant bag that will take in any condensation. This will resolve the issue and leave your windows looking clear again.
If you don't wish to spend the time drilling holes into your double-glazed units, there are also companies out there offering to do this for you. This method is expensive and requires some experience and skills to be successful.
In some cases when the window is suffering from other significant damage like extensive rot or severe cracks, it may be required to replace it. This is especially true if you want to upgrade to Low E A-rated glass to increase insulation and cut down on heating expenses.
It is best to call the company that installed your double glazing. If the unit is covered by warranty, they might be able to repair it or provide a discount for a replacement. For general maintenance and upkeep of your double-glazed windows, it is worth regularly checking the mechanism as well as the hinges, handles and any areas where the windows or doors pass through the frame for signs of wear and tear. Keep your double glazing in good condition to reduce any moisture or condensation between the panes. If you are having difficulty to open or shut your windows, try lubricating the hinges and mechanisms using grease or oil.