Double Glazing Window Repairs
If you have your double-glazed window repairs completed will ensure they are working properly and help you save money on heating costs. A professional will employ specific tools and know how to do the job correctly.
They'll also be able to give advice on the most current technologies for energy-saving. Many new double glazing windows have a warranty of 10 or 20 years, but some offer lifetime warranties.
Broken Panes
Cracks in double glazing aren't just visually unattractive, they also create an obstacle to cold or heat entering and leaving your home. The good news is that most damaged panes can be repaired without replacing the entire window. The first step is to cover the damaged area with masking tape, extending it past the edges of the glass on both sides to prevent the crack from spreading further. It's also recommended to cover the area with plastic such as a tarp or garbage bag, to keep the insects, rain and the elements out.
Then, remove the old pane of glass from its frame using the help of a utility knife and a pair of gloves. Try to get the glass out in one swift move instead of breaking it into smaller pieces. It's also crucial to be extremely cautious in case any pieces that break may fall and break more. Finally, it's essential to recycle the old glass in a proper manner.
Once the old window is removed, you'll need take measurements of the opening to make a new window. Be sure to take your measurements carefully and remember that wood expands or shrinks over time. It is generally recommended to subtract 1/16 - 1/8 inch from the measurement to ensure the new pane fits snugly. Then, you'll need a piece of double-strength glass cut to these exact dimensions, and purchase enough glazier's clips or glazier's points to be positioned every 6 inches around the perimeter of the windowpane.
A professional will drill holes in the window and fill in the gaps with the use of a liquid sealant. This will create an impermeable barrier that will keep your home dry and warm. The process can take from just a few hours to a few days, and it's essential to let the sealant dry before proceeding.
While some double-pane windows can be repaired using this method It is generally recommended that you replace the window in the event of condensation, draughts or any other issues that aren't solved by drilling or taping. Furthermore, since specialized tools are required to complete the repair correctly, it's not an ideal idea to try the repair yourself unless you're a skilled DIYer.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern when the humidity or temperature of a space changes. It causes water droplets to form on cold surfaces. They can get trapped between double-glazing if the seal fails. It's not usually a major issue, and you could do some things before calling in window repair experts.
Use a hairdryer at low temperature and at a safe distance to evaporate any moisture that's trapped between your windows. But, double glazing repairs is only an interim solution that will not stop condensation from occurring in the future, unless you address the root of the issue. The most permanent solution is to make sure that you have adequate ventilation inside your home and you maintain a balance between humidity levels. This will help you save money and reduce the risk of damp and mould growing around your window.
A defogger can be another method to fight condensation. This is a small hole that's drilled into the interior of the double glazing and a cleaning solution is then applied, which is able to remove any moisture from the air. This is only a temporary fix and won't guarantee the elimination of condensation in the long term but it could be an affordable alternative until you can have your window professionally repaired.
Condensation visible can be a sign that the sealant between the double paned windows have failed. If you notice this, it's crucial to contact your double glazing provider as soon as possible and get any issues addressed in writing. It will be easier to claim your warranty if it becomes necessary in the future.
It's also worth trying oiling any mechanisms, hinges or handles on your double glazing to see if it will help. You can also try a dry, clean 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 dry and clean space between your windows. If you're not able to solve this issue and you're not able to fix it, then replacing your windows might be required.
Draughts
There's nothing worse than a cold breeze coming through your double glazing and can make your whole home feel draughty, even when the rest of your home is warm. Draughts that are common can be easily repaired and can save you money on your energy bill.
A draught is usually caused by gaps around doors and windows. Poor fitting plaster, loose and rotting wood, or even loose paintwork can cause draughts. Draught proofing is one of the most cost-effective methods to reduce your energy bills. It keeps warm air from leaving your home in winter and cold, chilly air from entering your home during summer.
The best way to prevent the draughts from happening 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 sides or the top of the frame. Draught-proofing is also available for casement and sash windows. There are brushes that can be added to sliding sash windows, as well as casement windows with rubber strips, which can be glued or screwed in the place.
You can also try using a draught-exclusion device in the gap under your floorboards to stop warm air from rising and causing the draft. This only works in the event that your floorboards aren't carpeted. You can also put the cover for vents to an open fire when it's not in use and seal the gaps between sinks, around extractor fans, in chimneys and in any other vents that aren't being used in your house.
Misted double glazing is a typical problem, which is easily fixable by establishing the seal. Many double glazing companies provide the option to drill misted glass units and then insert plugs, however this is usually a temporary solution. It is better to contact the company that sold and installed your double glazing and request that they repair the glass unit. It might cost a bit more however it is less expensive than replacing the entire window.
Mist
The mist is caused by condensation between the panes of a double glazed window. The sealant that holds the glass together stops moisture from escaping. However, it is possible for it to be damaged or worn out by an accident or weathering. It is important to repair the damage as quickly as you can as it can cause homeowners a variety of issues, including mould and damp and high energy bills.
Fortunately, there is a simple and quick solution to this issue without replacing the entire window. Making a few small holes into the window allows you to put in an desiccant bag that will take in any condensation. This will solve the problem and keep your windows sparkling clean.
There are companies who will drill holes in your double-glazed units for you. This is costly and requires some experience and skill to be successful.
In certain cases when the window is being damaged by other factors such as massive cracks or extensive rot it might be required to replace it. This is especially true if you want to upgrade to Low E A-rated glass in order to improve insulation and reduce heating expenses.
It is advisable to get in touch with the company who installed your double glazing and ask for assistance. If the unit is covered by warranty, they might be able to repair it or give you the chance to get a discount on a replacement. It is essential to inspect your double-glazed windows regularly for signs of wear. This includes hinges, handles and the areas where the door or window is able to pass through the frame. Cleaning your double glazing will also help reduce any issues with condensation and moisture in between the panes. If you have trouble opening or closing your windows, you can lubricate the hinges and mechanisms with some grease or oil.