Double Glazing Window Repairs
You can cut down on heating costs by fixing your double-glazed windows. A professional will make use of specific tools and know how to do the job correctly.
double glazing window repair can also provide advice on the latest energy-saving technology. The majority of windows with double glazing come with a guarantee of 10 or 20 years, however some offer lifetime warranties.
Broken Panes
Cracks in double-glazed windows aren't just visually unattractive, they also create an obstruction to cold or hot air moving into and out of your home. The good news is that a majority of broken panes can be fixed without having to replace the whole window. The first step is to cover the damaged area with packing or masking tape, and then extend it over the edges of the glass on both sides to prevent the crack from spreading further. You can also cover the area with plastic, like garbage bags, tarps or tarp, to block bugs, rain and other animals.
Then, remove the old pane of glass from its frame using a utility blade and a pair gloves. It's better to remove the glass in one piece, rather than to break it into tiny pieces. Be very careful because glass pieces that have broken could fall and cause more damage. Finally, it's essential to recycle the old glass properly.
After the window has been removed, you'll need to measure the opening for the new window. Be sure to take your measurements carefully and remember that wood expands and shrinks over time. To ensure that the new pane will fit comfortably, it's best to subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inch from each side of the measurement. Then, you'll need a piece of double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions, and purchase enough glazier's clips or glazier's points to be installed every 6 inches around the perimeter of the windowpane.
A professional will drill a series of holes in the window to remove any moisture, then apply a special sealant to the gap. This creates an impervious barrier that will keep your home warm and dry. The process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, and it's crucial to let the sealant dry before moving on.
While some double-pane windows may be repaired with this method, it's generally recommended that you replace the window when you're experiencing condensation, draughts or any other issues that cannot be resolved by drilling or taping. It's also not a great idea for a novice DIYer to try the job themselves, as special tools are required to do the repair correctly.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern when the temperature or humidity of a space changes. It forms water droplets on cold surfaces. It could get trapped between double glazing if the seal fails to seal. The good news is that it's not usually an issue, and there are some ways to test it before calling in professional window repair specialists.
Another alternative is to use a hairdryer at a low heat (and at an appropriate distance) to evaporate any stagnant water that's trapped in between your windows. However, this is temporary solution and will not stop condensation from occurring in the future, unless you address the cause of the problem. The most permanent solution is to ensure you have adequate ventilation in your home and that you maintain a balance between humidity levels. This will help you save money on energy bills as well as reduce the risk of mould and damp forming around your windows.
Another option to deal with condensation is to employ a defogger. It's a tiny hole that's drilled into the inside of the double-glazed unit and a cleaning solution is then sprayed in, which removes any moisture from the air. This is a temporary solution and won't guarantee the elimination of condensation over the long run but it could be a reasonable alternative until you can have your window fixed professionally.
Visible condensation can be an indication that the sealant in between the double paned windows has failed. If you notice this, it's crucial to contact your double glazing company as soon as possible and get any issues addressed in writing. This will make it easier in the event that you have to utilize your warranty in the future.
You could also try lubricating hinges, mechanisms or handles on your double-glazing to see whether it aids. It is also possible to use a dry cloth to wipe away any haze that might be present, but remember that this will not solve the root issue which is the lack of a clean and dry space between your windows. If you're unable to solve this issue problem, then replacing your window might be required.
Draughts
There's nothing worse than a cold breeze coming through your double glazing - it can make your entire home feel cold, even though the rest of the house is warm. The good news is that most draughts can be simple to fix and can save you lots of money on your energy bills.
A draught usually comes from gaps around doors and windows. A poor fitting, loose plaster and rotting wood, or even loose paintwork can create drafts. Draught-proofing is a cheap method to lower your energy costs. It stops warm air from escaping your house in winter and cold air from entering your home in summer, meaning you don't need to keep heating your home at a high temperature.
The installation of draught-proofing strip is the best way to prevent drafts. These are available in various materials like brush, foam, or rubber strips. They can be positioned around the bottom of the door or on the sides or the top of the frame. You can also get draughtproofing for sash and casement windows. You can also add brushes to sliding sash windows and rubber strips to casement windows.
You could also try using a draught excluder in the gap under your floorboards to stop warm air from rising and causing the draught. But, this is only effective if your floorboards aren't carpeted. You can also add an air vent cover for an open fire, when it's not in use and seal the gaps between sinks, around extractor fan vents, in chimneys and in any other unused vents within your home.
Double glazing that has been misted is a regular problem. It can be easily fixed by creating a brand new seal. Many double glazing firms will offer drilling holes in the glass unit and put in plugs. However this is a temporary solution. It is better to contact the company that sold and installed your double glazing and ask them to repair the glass unit. It may cost more however replacing the entire window will be less costly.
Mist
The mist is caused by condensation between the panes of a double-glazed window. The sealant that binds the glass prevents moisture from exiting. However, it is possible for it to be damaged or worn away by an accidental impact or weathering. This should be fixed as soon as you can and could cause homeowners to experience a variety of issues, such as damp and mould, as well as high energy bills.
There is a simple and quick solution to the problem without replacing the entire window. Simply drilling a few holes into the window unit will permit you to insert desiccant bags that will absorb any condensation between the glass panes. This will eliminate the problem and keep your windows clear and clean.
If you don't want take on the task of drilling holes into your double-glazed units, there are also companies who will do this for you. This method is expensive and requires some knowledge and experience to be successful.
In some instances, it might be necessary for the window to be replaced when it has suffered serious damage like extensive rot, or severe cracks. This is particularly true if you want to upgrade to Low E A-rated glass in order to improve insulation and cut down on heating costs.
It is recommended to contact the company that installed your double glazing. They should be able repair the misting or give you an offer on a replacement unit, based on whether the unit is under warranty. For general maintenance and maintenance of your double glazed windows, it's worth regular inspection of the mechanism as well as the hinges, handles and any areas where the windows or doors enter the frame for signs of wear and wear and tear. Keep your double glazing in good condition to prevent condensation or moisture between the panes. If you have difficulty to shut or open your windows Try lubricating your hinges and mechanisms with oil or grease.