Double Glazing Window Repair
Over time, double glazing can create problems, such as being difficult to open windows or doors that snags. Fortunately the problems can be fixed without difficulty.
Many homeowners will attempt to solve these issues on their own but this should be left to professionals. It's risky to fix these problems without the right tools and information.
Broken Panes
A damaged window is an annoying and inconvenient problem. It can let hot or cold air into your home, and leave a gap which allows moisture or debris to get in. This can affect your energy efficiency as your AC or furnace will need to work harder to keep your home warm. Depending on window repairs and whether you have single-pane or double-pane windows, you might be able to repair the damage by using silicone sealant. A permanent fix requires professional assistance.
Heavy-duty tape can be used to repair a cracked window. A piece of tape can be placed over the crack to prevent it from getting any worse. A crack that is large enough to penetrate the glass, or is too large to be covered by tape must be replaced completely.
Broken glass can be caused by numerous factors: a stray pebble from a lawnmower that lands on the window; drinking a drink that is set too heavily on a glass-topped coffee table or a pet's euphoric leap when you open the front door. It could also happen naturally as the frames of your windows move in a slight manner, breaking the special packaging material that keeps the glass sheets in place.
Wear a pair of thick gloves in the event of a broken pane of glass. Place a cardboard box close to the pane in order to catch any fragments. Remove the frame's sash and work on a flat surface such as tables. Wear a mask to avoid inhaling the glass shattering.
After removing the old glass, take off any paint and varnish from the window frame. You can use a heat gun to soften old glazing putty or the metal points that held the glass in position.
Then, you can measure the opening for a 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 to these measurements.
Place the glass into the frame. If there are any gaps, you can fill them with silicone caulk, which you can purchase at a home improvement store. Smooth the caulk using a putty blade. Add glazier's points to the corners and frames of the glass every six inches to ensure that the pane is securely held in place.
Condensation
Condensation is a possibility on double-glazed windows, no matter if they are old or brand new. This is particularly true in winter, when colder air meets warmer glass. It could be a problem but it is not usually an issue. Condensation on windows is a sign that your double glazing system is functioning correctly.
It could be a sign that the seal is failing and water is leaking through the crack between the window panes. There may be a milky appearance on the window, or water beads appearing across the surface. This is something that needs to be addressed to stop mould, mildew or further damage.
Luckily condensation can be eliminated very easily. A technician will drill a small number of holes into the window frame, which allows the moisture trapped to be released. This process is referred to as defogging. It also can help to remove any stains that are caused by the trapped moisture.
Defogging does not fix the underlying issue of a failing window seal. It might not even work when the condensation has gone away as the air that is leaking between the panes might still be there. This could mean that you will still not receive the same amount of heat insulation from your windows as you could.
If you've noticed water build-up in your windows it's a good idea to speak with an expert as quickly as you can to determine what the next steps need to be. They might be able to suggest a solution, such as adding vents in the windows to let fresh air be able to enter, but not letting warm air escape.
The last thing you would like is for your double-glazed unit to fail, especially when it's expensive to replace. With the right equipment, skills and experience, you can repair your double-glazed window to keep it in good shape for many years. If you need repairs to your double glazing, contact us today to find out how we can help. We provide a range of services, from replacing one or more panes of glass to installing energy-efficient upgrades.
Leaks
Leaks can cause damage and are costly to fix. It's expensive to repair and is often an indication of more serious issues with your property such as dry rot or mold. It is essential to repair the leak as soon as possible.
If you notice that your double-glazed windows are draughty it's likely that the seal has broken. This may also mean that there is no gas called argon in the glass panes which is used to create insulation. This can be fixed by an expert technician who will repair the window.
Sometimes dirt can cause a double-glazed window to become cloudy or hazy. This is usually a sign that sealing is failing and the glass should be cleaned. This can be done by a specialist using high-pressure water jets that will swiftly clean the glass of any dirt or other debris.
If condensation forms between the two panes of your double glazing, this is an indication that the seal is leaky and that there is not any argon between the glass. This is a serious problem and indicates that your double glazing is not adequately insulate your home properly as it should. This can be repaired by replacing the glass, but it will need to be done sooner rather than later, as the performance of your double-glazed window will have been affected.
If you have new double-glazed windows under warranty, you should contact the company that installed them and inform them of any issues with the units, or the sealing of the glass since it is unlikely to be covered under the warranty. If you attempt to play with the units or try to repair them yourself, this could invalidate your guarantee, so you should leave the repairs to professionals. This is the reason we suggest that you use a specialist double glazing repair business.
Weather Damage
Double-glazed windows require a sturdy frame to keep the glass panes together and hold them in place, particularly in extreme weather conditions. Ice snow, high winds and tumultuous storms can all cause damage to your windows. If you see cracks, dents or holes in your window, contact an expert to repair your double glazing.
If you notice water flowing out from the bottom of your window, this could be a sign there is a breach in the seal inside the window. This allows moisture to get into your home. Your uPVC window frame or aluminum window frames may also be warping or bending. It is necessary to replace your window seal and reinstall it into the frame in order to correct this.
Window seals ensure that double-glazed windows are airtight. stop heat escaping from your home and prevent condensation between the glass panes. Window seals, which help keep the glass in position, are made of uPVC or aluminum. There are issues like the loss of energy and draughts if the window seals fail.
Misting windows are a frequent problem and is the result of the insulating gas inside the double-glazed window failing. The argon gases hold the glass in place and create a airtight seal however if the glass is damaged or worn out, the gases can escape. The argon gas can cause condensation between glass panes in the event that it escapes.
The issue can be fixed by replacing the window seal, and then re-inserting glass. You can apply an anti-fogging treatment to stop future condensation. It is recommended to employ an expert to complete the job for you.
Double-glazed windows are essential however they can also be damaged and need to be repaired. Fortunately, many windows can be repaired without the need for replacement. It is best to have some basic tools in your arsenal. You'll need a an insulated glove, a tape or film that is transparent, scotchtape, nail polish, and a plastic sheet.