Double Glazing Window Repairs

Double glazing windows have become increasingly popular in recent years as an improvement to homes because they are believed to add value to a property. However, replacements are often unnecessary and simple thermal upgrading options exist which cost less than replacements.

Double glazing that is misted up is typically caused by moisture within the glass panes and can be fixed easily. Learn more about how.

Condensation on glass

If you notice that your double glazing is becoming foggy or misty this is an indication that the seal between the glass panes failed. This is a serious problem since water vapor can get between the glass panes and cause condensation and mold. It is also a waste of energy since your windows are no longer effective in insulating your home.

Most of the time, condensation on double-glazed windows occurs because of the high humidity levels within your home. You can reduce the humidity in your home by dehumidifying it, but you'll still need to manage condensation if it develops between the window panes. If you see this kind of condensation on your windows, it is likely to be best to contact the company who sold you your windows and inform them about the issue.

It's good to know that double-glazed windows can be typically repairable without having to replace the entire frame. The gas that is used to insulate the frame can be replaced between the panes, saving you money on cooling and heating.

You can also get the glass panes replaced. However, this isn't something you should try to do yourself as it requires specialized tools and experience. In fact, attempting to repair a glass panel without the proper tools could be dangerous and potentially result in injury. It is best to leave these repairs to professionals who have the equipment and know-how. They can remove the old pane and replace it with a brand new one. This will restore the insulating gases between the panes, and increase the efficiency of your home. If you have trouble opening or Double Glazed window closing your double glazing, they will fix it for you.

Seals that aren't working properly

While not as serious as a damaged window pane, a faulty seal will nevertheless affect the insulation properties of your double glazing. This is because double-glazed windows are filled with gas or air (usually argon or Krypton) between the glass panes. this filling acts as an insulator to keep heat inside your home in winter, and outside in summer. If the window seal is damaged the insulation effect will decrease and your energy bills will rise because of it.

How can a window seal be repaired? A specialist in window repair will first determine whether your window can be repaired or if you require replacement. If replacement is necessary the old glass will be removed. The frame is cleaned and ready for the new glass. The new window glass will be installed into the frame and any adjustments that are required to ensure a tight fit will be made.

Generally speaking, a new double glazed window can be equipped with the most recent advancements in energy efficiency, such as gas filled argon units and thermal spacer bars, which means you can save money on your energy bills!

The difficulty of opening or closing a double glazed window or one that is sagging or fallen down can usually be fixed by professionals by oiling the mechanisms, hinges and handles. Wiping down the frames with cold water could also help to shrink the frame, making it easier to open and close. If the issue persists, you can call the company that sold the double glazing to report the problem. The majority of companies offer a warranty of 10 or 20 years. It is a good idea to look into your options.

Broken glass panes

Double-glazed windows are made with a glass pane that is held in place by wooden stops. Sometimes these stops can break or crack - usually from old age or after a severe impact like a hailstone or baseball. Contact a double glazing professional as soon as you can in the event that a window is damaged this way. They'll apply an adhesive to stop the glass from cracking more or breaking completely. They will replace any damaged components of the frame too.

To replace a damaged or broken window pane by yourself, you must remove the old pane and glazing points by prying them off using pliers. Wear gloves and safety goggles to avoid getting shards of glass in your eyes. You can also employ a wire brush to scrape off old paint and debris that has accumulated in the surrounding l-shaped grooves in the frame of the wood. Once you've done this you can sand the grooves to the level of wood and then seal them with an oil-based sealer.

If the window was fitted with wood molding and rubber gaskets, these will need to be removed prior to being able to install a new pane. Rubber gaskets are reusable, but wood molding that is deteriorated or is missing must be replaced. You can buy an alternative at your local hardware store or home improvement store.

After you have made the frame make sure you measure a new windowpane and cut it to the desired size (if not pre-cut). Roll the glazing putty into thin strips and then push them into the L-channel of the frame, just around the edges. Press the glass into place and add glaziers' points. Once the new glass is dry, you can re-attach the stops to the frame.

Draughts

Draughts are caused by cold air getting through the gaps around the windows and doors of your home. This is usually due to sealing material degradation or a gap in insulation. Draughts can be uncomfortable but also reduce efficiency in energy use and can increase heating costs. There are a lot of methods to combat these draughts, and most of them are cost-effective and quick.

Weather strips can be affixed to the bottom of a door to eliminate draughts. These polyester strips are available in different thicknesses and are self-adhesive. They are simple to use and provide more efficient solutions than the traditional door repair snakes. You can also add draught exclusions your door frames in order to increase the draught-proofing.

A window that doesn't open or close correctly is another common source of draughts. In this case the hinge on the window is likely to be loose or broken and needs to be replaced. This may be covered by your warranty. Check with the provider for more details.

Double-glazing problems can be fixed when the seal between the frame and glass is damaged or the glazing putty breaks. These are generally easy to fix but can be more difficult for older multi-paned windows because you'll need to remove and replace the old putty.

Energy efficiency

Double glazing offers a number advantages, including energy efficiency and sound insulation. It also acts as a barrier against pests and outside air which can aid in preventing break-ins and other security problems. The windows are designed to be simple to clean, which can reduce the amount of condensation.

The space between the two glass panes in windows that are double-glazed is often filled with air or argon, or krypton gas which adds an additional layer of protection for a property. This is what makes the windows so effective as an insulation, and helps to keep warmer air within the business or home.

Double glazed windows that are energy efficient are often equipped with Low E glass, with an invisible coating of metal oxide that allows light to pass through, while also preventing heat from entering the home and escape through the window. The two glass panes are kept apart by a spacer around the edges. When selecting an energy-efficient double-glazed window, it is important to choose spacers with little or no metal as it conducts heat.

It is not only an inconvenience not being able to take in the view from your double-glazed windows however, it could also increase the cost of heating. This is because damaged or un-sealed double glazed windows will no longer hold heat and therefore require heating to be switched on more frequently.

Repairing double-glazed windows will help reduce your heating bills and ensure they work effectively by preventing water leaks, condensation and draughts. This is a cost-effective option than replacing the windows. Double-glazed windows that are energy efficient can save you as much as PS460 in heating expenses throughout the year.