Double Glazing Windows Repairs

Double glazing consists of two panes within frames or openings in the wall. The window glass can be damaged and may require repairs.

If you've noticed condensation between the windows or a noticeable draught, or hinges or handles are becoming difficult to open, these are all signs that your double glazing needs to be repaired. This repair typically involves a resealing of the entire unit.

Broken Panes

Double-glazed windows comprise of two glass panes that have an air gap that is filled with inert gases like Krypton or argon. This helps to keep heat inside your home and prevents cold drafts from entering. Occasionally the windows can become damaged and when this happens the entire window could require replacement. It is essential to contact the company that sold you the double glazing if you notice cracks or chips in the window.

A few easy steps can be followed to repair a broken window pane, but it is not recommended you attempt the repairs yourself unless you are an experienced DIYer. Put on some gloves first and carefully remove the damaged window pane. If the pane is cracked, apply masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern to the areas that are cracked. This will prevent the cracks from worsening over time, especially during the winter. It is also recommended to cover your work surface with newspaper in case any broken pieces fall off. Once the broken pane has been removed scrape away any glazing putty or glazed window seal using the help of a putty knife. Then, remove the glazing points using pliers. Then, apply an adhesive that quickly dries to apply a coat of primer on the wooden surface.

Find the length and width of the channels that have grooves using a tape. Subtract 1/8" from both measurements to allow for the slight movement of the replacement pane. Next, roll a narrow rope of glazing compound into the grooved channels and slide the replacement glass into place. Tap gently using the drum at 6 intervals of 8'' to aid in setting the glass in place Be careful not to break the glass.

It is a good idea to take advantage of your double glazing warranty to save the cost of a complete replacement window doctor. The warranty typically covers the cost of any part that you may need to replace and also labour. You should verify the terms as they will vary from one company to the next.

Foggy Glass

Condensation between the panes of your double glazing could cause foggy glass. This could be caused by various reasons, such as variations in temperature, poorly installed frames, or even the deteriorating seals.

However, the good news is that in most cases it can be fixed easily by a skilled double glazing installer. Contact the company that installed your windows immediately if you notice any problems. Follow up with a written response. This will make it easier in the event that you need to contact them again later on. It could also prove extremely useful in the event that the issue is covered under your warranty or guarantee.

It is possible to resolve the problem by replacing the gasket seals. This won't require you to replace the entire window unit, and will make your home more energy efficient. To do this the window glazier must remove any retaining clips or strips that are holding the IGU in place and cut through the old sealant using a saw.

Then they will build or buy an IGU replacement to fit the frame and use special sealants in order to ensure it's airand water-tight. Once they're finished they'll install the retaining clips or strips and apply more sealant to make sure it's secure.

If you're lucky, the misting may end after this. It's essential that your frames are ventilated properly to prevent moisture from accumulating in your walls or ceilings.

Another issue that is frequently reported by double glazing owners is that their doors or windows become difficult to open and close It could be due to extreme weather, or it could mean that the frame has sunk or sagged slightly over time, and isn't sitting flush with the rest of your house. If this is the problem then you could try wiping down the frames with cold water to shrink them a bit. However, this will not resolve the issue completely. If you're unable to solve the issue away, you may require replacing them by an expert.

Condensation

Condensation happens when the insulating gases in double-glazed windows fail to hold their place leaving air and moisture between the panes. This is a frequent issue during winter, when humidity levels are generally higher, but it can happen at other times of year too. Moisture build up can cause mildew and mould on sills sealants, window frames and even window sills which is not only unsightly but also dangerous to your health. The good part is that condensation can usually be resealed by a window expert to reduce the moisture level in your home and prevent the build-up of moisture.

Window gaskets are an essential part of any double-glazed window or door. Gaskets are used to seal the insulated space between your window glass to stop drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. The gaskets may perish or shrink over time due to fluctuations in temperature, weather conditions and aging, meaning that you may notice condensation developing on double glazing repair-glazed windows or doors.

It is possible to repair it however, it will require replacement of the "sandwich" (thermo-pane and glass) inside your double-glazing window. It is recommended that unless you have the proper tools, you hire an expert to seal your double-glazed window.

Mist in your double-glazed windows is another common problem that is difficult to solve. This indicates that the vacuum seal in the factory has failed and there is no way to let air in or out of the sandwich.

A professional will reseal the windows with the same method as they would for fog or condensation issues. This typically involves taking off the thermo-pane sandwich, spraying it with a cleaning solution, then sucking out the old sealant. It is vital to measure the sandwich in terms of width, length and thickening. This will ensure that the new one is perfectly sized and that a new seal can be drawn.

This is a difficult job and requires specialised tools that aren't usually found in DIY stores. It is recommended to leave this task to professionals, because faulty seals could lead to mold and damp in your home. This can be costly and harmful to your health.

Water Leaks

If you see water leaking around your double glazing windows it's important to take action quickly. If you don't take action quickly even the tiniest leak could be a huge issue.

Sometimes, the frame of the window could be the culprit. Make sure that the sill pan (the flat bottom of the window frame) is pitched to allow water to drain away from your home and not into the window frame itself. If you find that the sill pan is not pitched correctly or you can see water in the wood, you should contact a double-glazing repair company.

A damaged window seal is a common reason for leaks. This can be due to the aging process, damage, or weather. This isn't an easy fix and should be left to experts.

A broken window seal can let air in through the windows, making it less energy efficient. This lets cold air in your home in winter, and hot gas to escape in summer. This can lead to high heating and cooling costs.

The most straightforward method to fix this is to apply a new layer of caulking. While those who have DIY skills can do it themselves, it is usually easier to have a double glazing specialist take care of the job. This way you will get a guarantee and peace of mind that the job is done correctly.

Some double-glazing windows come with warranties of up to 20 years. It is an excellent idea to inquire with the company you purchased your windows from and determine what warranties they provide and for how long. This will save you the cost of having to replace your double-glazed windows in the future. If your double-glazed windows are covered by a warranty it is important to register the problem with them as soon as you notice any issues. This can be done via the internet or by contact with the company directly. This information is useful if you need to use the warranty.