Double Glazing Windows Repairs

Double glazing refers to panes of glass in a window frame or double glazing repair wall opening. The window glass can become faulty at times and may require repairs.

Whether you've noticed condensation between the windows, a noticeable draught or hinges and handles are becoming difficult to open or close, these are all indications that your double-glazed unit needs to be fixed. The repair typically involves a resealing of the entire unit.

Broken Panes

Double glazed windows are made up of two glass panes that have an air gap in between which is filled with inert gases, such as argon or krypton. This keeps heat in your home and blocks cold drafts from entering. Sometimes, windows can be damaged and the whole window may require replacement. It is important that you contact the company who sold you the double glazing in the event that you spot cracks or chips in the window.

A few easy steps can be used to fix a broken window pane, although it is not recommended you attempt to repair the damage yourself unless you're a skilled DIYer. First of all, you will require gloves and remove the broken pane. If the pane is cracked, use masking tape in a crisscrossing design to the cracked areas. This will prevent the cracks from worsening over time, especially during the winter. You should also cover your work surface in newspapers to stop any broken pieces from falling. Once the damaged pane has been removed scrape away any glazing putty or window seal with the help of a putty knife. Then, remove the glazing points with pliers. Finally, coat the bare wood with a fast-drying primer.

Take measurements of the length and width of the channels that have grooves with the help of a tape. Subtract 1/8'' from both measurements to allow for a slight movement of the new pane. Then, slide the new pane in place and then roll thin pieces of glazing compound in the channels with grooves. Tap the glass gently with the hammer every 6" or 8" to help it set in place. Be careful not to break it.

It is a good idea to take advantage of your double glazing warranty to avoid the cost of a complete replacement window. In general the warranty will cover the cost of the components and labour. You should verify the terms as they will vary from one company to the next.

Foggy Glass

Condensation between the panes in your double glazing could cause foggy glass. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including temperature fluctuations, when the frames aren't set properly, or even the aging of the seals themselves.

In the majority of cases, double glazing installers are able to fix the issue quickly and efficiently. Contact the company who installed your windows right away if you find any issues. Follow up by writing a response. It will be easier to contact the company if you have to later. This is also helpful when your warranty or guarantee covers the problem.

The most effective method to eliminate the fogging is to replace the gasket seals - this can be done without having to replace the entire window unit, and it will also help to keep your home energy efficient. To do this, the window glazier will take off any clips or strips that hold the IGU in place, and then cut through the sealant using the aid of a saw.

Then they will build or purchase an IGU replacement that fits the frame and apply special sealants to ensure it's air- and water-tight. Once they're finished, they'll reinstall the clips or strips that hold it and apply more sealant to make sure it's secure.

If you are lucky the misting will end. It's important that your frames are ventilated properly to stop the build-up of moisture in your ceilings or walls.

Another frequent issue faced by owners of double glazing is that their windows or doors become difficult to open and close This could be due to extreme weather, or it could be that the frame has dropped or sagged slightly over time, and isn't flush with the rest of your home. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames with cold water to shrink them down slightly - however, it's unlikely to solve the issue completely. If you're unable to resolve the issue completely, you may require replacing them by a professional.

Condensation

Condensation occurs when the insulating gases in double-glazed windows fail to hold their position leaving air and moisture between the panes. This is a common issue in winter when humidity levels are typically higher, though it can happen at other times of year too. Moisture can cause mildew and mould to form around window frames, sealants, and sills. This is not only unsightly, but it's also harmful to your health. A window professional can often seal condensation to decrease the amount of moisture and stop the accumulation of moisture within your home.

Window gaskets are an important component of any double-glazed window or door. These gaskets seal the air-tight space between the window glass to prevent drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. Gaskets can degrade or shrink over time due to weather, temperature conditions and ageing, meaning that you might notice condensation appearing on your double-glazed windows or doors.

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

Another issue that is common is the mist between double-glazed windows. This is difficult to resolve. This indicates that the vacuum seal in the factory has failed, and there is no way to let air out or in the sandwich.

Professionals will reseal your window using the same procedure they would use to fix problems with condensation or fog. This usually involves removing the sandwich and spraying the cleaning agent on it, and then sucking out the old sealing agent. It is essential to accurately measure the'sandwich' in length as well as width and thickness to ensure that the replacement will be a perfect fit and a new vacuum seal can be drawn between the glass.

This is a difficult task that requires tools not typically found in DIY stores. It is best to leave this job to professionals as incorrect seals could result in damp and mold in your home. This can be costly and hazardous to your health.

Water Leaks

It's crucial to take action when you see water leaking from your double-glazed windows. A small leak can quickly become a major issue in the event that it is not addressed promptly.

The window frame 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 the sill isn't pitched properly or if you see moisture in the wood, you must contact a double glazing repair company for professional help.

A damaged window seal is another common reason for leaks. This could be due to weather, age, or damage. It's not as simple to fix and is usually best left to the experts.

A broken window seal can let air in through the windows, which makes it less energy efficient. This lets cold air in your home during winter and hot gas to escape in the summer. This could result in higher heating and cooling costs.

It is simple to fix by applying a fresh layer of caulking. Although people with DIY skills can do this themselves but it is generally better to have a double glazing expert handle the job. You'll have peace of mind and a guarantee that the job has been done correctly.

Some double glazing repair glazing windows have warranties of up to 20 years. It is recommended to check with the company you purchased your windows from and determine what warranties they provide and for how long. This will help you avoid the expense of having replace your double glazed windows at a later time. If you have an insurance policy on your double-glazed windows, it is essential to make sure to report any issues as soon as possible. You can do this online or by calling them directly. Having all of this information in writing will be helpful if you ever require your warranty.