Repairing Double Glazed Windows

Double glazing is an excellent investment for your home. Over time, it can develop problems like misting and condensation.

This could be due to a variety of reasons but is usually due to the seals no more being airtight, causing a loss in the gas that acts as an insulation between the glass panes. It can be helpful to know how to repair double glazing.

Broken Panes

A cat's claw, a loose lawnmower ball, or a stone that is thrown can cause a double-glazed window to break. In this case it is possible that cold or hot air can move more easily between the two panes of glass, making your home less well-insulated and increasing your energy bills. If both of the windows are shattered, it's time to call a professional to replace the windows.

If one of the panes has damaged but is not completely broken it may still possible to repair. First remove the old glass from the frame while wearing safety glasses and gloves. Remove the loose putty from the edges that are broken of the glass with the painter's tool, which you can warm with the aid of a heat gun. Put a piece of aluminum foil over the glass to prevent them from breaking when the putty is removed.

Once the frame is ready to accept the new pane, you need to lubricate the cutter on an inexpensive glass cutting tool available at most hardware stores -- using lightweight oil like WD-40. Cut along the edges of the glass, approximately one inch from the edge. Then, gently move the glass into the rabbets, or fitter the l-shaped grooves in the window frame, where it will sit. Then, use the tool's chiseled end to remove any remaining putty from the edge of the glass.

Once the new pane is in place, press the glazier's points into your frame every six inches around the seam where it meets the glass. Then apply another cord of glazier's compound to the glass-frame joint and smooth it out using the putty knife. If your windows are made from metal then you can paint the joints with a primer designed to prevent rust.

Cracks

Although rare the possibility of a cracking in your double glazing can occur, particularly in older windows. It's usually caused by pressure variations between two panes of glass, which can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations. It is essential to keep blinds closed in hot weather and to not open the blinds too much when the sun shines. This will prevent excessive heat from forming between the two panes.

The best way to prevent cracks in your double glazed window repair-glazed windows is to ensure the frames are secure, especially on the hinges, locking mechanisms and handles. A quality double-glazed window should also be simple to open and close, without sagging or sticking. Oiling the hinges and mechanisms could aid. You can also adjust the screws and locks to ensure they are secure enough.

Be aware that a damaged glass window can be dangerous. If you notice cracks in your double glazing and see shards of glass that are loose on the floor, you should call an emergency window repair glazier right away since it's better to replace the damaged pane of glass completely instead of fixing it.

If you notice condensation between the two panes, it is an indication that the seals aren't functioning properly and need to be replaced immediately. A reputable glazier will be able to drill into the sealed unit and inject or pump a drying agent, typically a desiccant into the window to get rid of any moisture. This is a simple and inexpensive solution. But be aware that this is only a temporary fix and that you will have to replace your windows in the future term.

Condensation

Condensation can be a problem with older double glazing. It occurs when air moisture is pushed into the space between the panes and is able to condense during the night. This is a natural phenomenon that does not indicate any problem with the glass or windows. However it can be a source of frustration to homeowners because it prevents the double glazing from performing in the way it should.

The solution is to install vents or trickle vents on the frame, allowing air to flow through, removing any condensation that may build up in your home. Adding this will also aid in keeping heat inside the house and reduce energy bills in the long run.

Often a professional can repair the problem without having to replace the entire window. They will make tiny holes in the window to let out any moisture that has been trapped, and fitter then apply an anti-fog coating.

It is a good idea to contact the company you bought your double glazing from as soon as you start experiencing issues. This is to ensure that they send out a technician to investigate the issue and resolve any issues before they become worse. It is also a good idea to ensure that all communications are in writing, such as an email or letter, because this makes it easier to dispute any claims in the future.

While it is possible to do some repairs yourself, it's usually quicker and more effective to hire a professional to perform the work. This is particularly applicable to any issues that require specialist tools. A professional can also provide the guarantee of their work, which you might not receive if you try to repair window the double glazing yourself.

Draughts

Double-glazed windows are becoming increasingly popular because they increase energy efficiency, decrease the amount of noise that can be heard inside the home, and protect furniture from UV light. They also help reduce condensation, which is a common cause of mould. If they aren't properly installed, air can easily leak through the gaps in between the glass panes and cause the air to draught.

In double-glazed windows two panes of glass are separated by a spacer bar. the gap is then filled with insulating gas. Spacer bars usually contain a desiccant which assists in drawing moisture away from the gap, thus preventing internal condensation. However, when the desiccant loses its ability to remove moisture from the spacer bar, it's likely for sash window Repairs condensation to form between the glass panes. This is a common problem with poorly-made double glazing however it can be fixed by drilling holes into the glass or spacer and after that, putting in a dehumidifier.

The space between the two panes in a double-glazed window serves as an insulation, preventing cold air from getting into your home. Filling the gap with an inert gas such as argon, can improve the insulating properties even more.

Double-glazed windows cost more money to install than single-glazed ones but are usually worth it as they can reduce your heating and cooling costs, shield your furniture from UV damage, and also increase the value of your home. If you're thinking of having double glazed windows installed at your residence, make sure to work with an experienced installer such as Thermawood. Their retrofit double glazing system lets you to benefit of a premium IGU without removing your existing frame and the cladding.

Replacement

Double glazing has numerous benefits for homeowners. It improves the efficiency of energy and also reduces noise. It also reduces the risk of draughts or the build-up of mould on the window panes. However, they're not indestructible and issues can occur. It's important to remember that you can get most double glazing faults repaired, rather than replaced, saving you the cost and hassle of putting in new windows installed.

One of the most frequent issues that people who own double glazing face is the need to fix a leaky window seal. If this is the case, it's important to contact an expert as quickly as you can to schedule a suitable time for a window fitter to come and carry out the necessary repairs.

A window that is difficult to open or shut can also be a problem. This could be due heat or because the mechanism has become stiffer over time. If this is the case, you can try cooling down the mechanism and lubricating handles and hinges. It may also be that the frame is sliding or has fallen and requires realignment.

The misting could also be easily fixed. This is because the rubber seals that keep the two glass panes together break down over time. This is typically caused by the frames moving in a slight manner as they age and settling the special packaging material that keeps them in place, which then leads to one or both panes of your double glazing shifting and breaking the all-important seal.

Misting can be corrected by drilling holes into the affected glass and then removing the moisture inside. This is only a temporary solution and must be repeated. Installing trickle vents in your frames will be the best long-term solution. They let fresh air to enter the room, while preventing warm air from escaping.