7 Things You've Never Knew About Double Glazing Window Repair
Double Glazing Window RepairOver time double glazing may create problems, such as being difficult to open windows or doors that snags. These issues can be easily fixed.
Many homeowners attempt to fix these problems themselves. However this should be left to the experts. Trying to do this without the right tools and experience could cause damage.
Broken Panes
A broken window pane can be a gruelling and a hassle. It could let cold or hot air in your home, and leave a gap which allows debris or moisture to get in. It also reduces your energy efficiency, as your AC and furnace will have to perform more to keep your home cool. Depending on the weather conditions and whether you have double-pane or single-pane windows, you may be able to temporarily fix the damage using silicone sealant. However the final solution will require expert assistance.
A damaged window can be fixed with high-quality tape. A tape strip placed over a crack can stop it from getting worse. However cracks that extend all the way through the glass or that is too big to be covered with tape will require to be completely replaced.
Broken glass can result from various factors: a pebble from the lawnmowers that lands on the window; an unintentionally placed drink heavily on a table with a glass top or a pet's euphoric jump when you open the door. It can also happen naturally when the frames of your windows move slightly over time and break the protective packaging material that keeps the glass sheets in the right place.
When you have a broken glass pane, you should wear heavy gloves and place a cardboard box near to catch the fragments. Take the sash off and work on a level surface, such as the table. Wear a mask to prevent breathing in the glass shards.
After you have removed the old glass, clean any paint and varnish from the window frame. You can use a heating gun to soften old glazing putty or metal glazing points which helped to hold the glass in place.
Then, you can determine the opening size for the new pane. To allow for expansion and contracting it is recommended to purchase the replacement glass slightly smaller than the opening. You can have your local hardware store or your home center cut it according to these dimensions.
Once you have the glass, put it in the frame. Fill any gaps with silicone caulk. You can purchase it in a home improvement store. Smooth the caulk with a putty blade. Add glazier's points to corners of the glass and frame every six inches, to ensure that they hold the pane securely in the right place.
Condensation
Condensation can occur on double-glazed windows, no matter if they are brand new. This is particularly the case in winter, when colder air meets warmer glass. It can be a problem but it is not usually a big problem. Condensation on windows is a sign that your double glazing system is working properly.
It could be an indication that your seal is not working and moisture is entering the gap. If you notice a milky appearance on your window or water beads appear across the surface, it needs to be addressed in order to prevent mold, mildew, or any further damage.
Condensation is easily removed. A technician will drill tiny holes into the frame of the window to allow the moisture that has been trapped to escape. This process is known as defogging, and it can also be used to remove stains that are caused by moisture that has been trapped.
It is important to remember that defogging doesn't fix the root cause of a leaking seal. In fact, it might not do so even when the condensation has gone, as the compromised air that was in between the panes is still there. This could mean that you still not get the same amount of heat insulation from your windows as you should.
It is essential to consult an expert as soon you discover that your windows are damp to determine the next steps. They could suggest a solution such as adding vents to windows that let fresh air in but not allowing warm air to escape.
It is the last thing you need for your double-glazing system to break down. This is especially true when it can be expensive to replace. With the right skills, equipment and knowledge, you can repair your double glazing to keep it in good shape for many years. Contact us now if you require double repairs to your glazing. We provide a variety of services from replacing one or several panes of tempered glass to installing energy efficient upgrades.
Leaks
A leak can be a major issue as it indicates that you could have damp ingress that can cause damage. It can be costly to fix and is often an indication of other issues with your property such as dry rot or mould. This is why it's crucial to fix a leak as more info soon as you can.
If you notice that your double-glazed windows have a draught it's likely that the seal has failed. This could also mean that the argon gas that is used to seal the glass panes has gone out. A specialist technician can replace your window to solve this problem.
Double-glazed windows can turn cloudy or misty due dirt. This is typically a sign that the sealing is deteriorating and the glass must be cleaned. A professional can do this by using high-pressure water jets to swiftly clean the glass.
However, if condensation is forming between the two glass panes in your double glazing, it is an indication that the seal has opened an open and there is no argon between the two panes of glass. This is a serious problem and indicates that your double glazed window does not protect your home as properly as it should. The glass unit is able to be replaced, but you'll have to do it sooner rather than later, as the performance of your double-glazed window has been affected.
If you own new double-glazed windows under guarantee, you should contact the company who installed them and report any issues with the units or the sealing of the glass since it is not likely to be covered under the warranty. If you try to tamper with the units or attempt to repair them yourself, this could invalidate the warranty, and you should leave these repairs to the experts. This is why we recommend using a specialist double glazing repair service.
Weather Damage
In areas of extreme weather conditions, double-glazed windows require a strong frame that can hold the glass panes. Ice snow, high winds and violent thunderstorms can damage your windows. If you notice cracks holes or dents in your window, contact an expert for a double glazing repair.
If you see water running out of the bottom of your window, this could indicate that there is a leaky seal inside the window. This lets moisture get into your home. In addition, your uPVC or aluminum window frame may be warping or bending. You'll need to replace your window seal and reinstall it into the frame in order to fix this.
Window seals help to ensure that double-glazed windows are airtight and keep heat from escaping your home, and also stopping condensation between the glass panes. These window seals, which keep the glass in place, are made of uPVC or aluminum. If the window seals break down, you can experience problems such as energy loss, draughts and misted windows.
The inability of the insulating gases in double-glazed windows is a common reason for misting windows. The argon gas helps keep the glass in place and creates an airtight seal. However in the event that the seal is damaged or worn, it may allow gases to escape. The gases that escape can lead to condensation between the glass panes.
The issue can be fixed by replacing the window seal and then re-installing glass. You can also apply an anti-fogging solution to stop any further condensation. It is recommended to hire professionals to do the work for you.
While it is essential to have double-glazed windows, they are not impervious to damage and will require to be repaired from time to time. Fortunately, many windows can be restored without the necessity of replacement. To do this, it's recommended to have a few basic tools in your arsenal. You will need an insulated glove, a tape or film that is transparent, nail polish, scotchtape and a plastic sheet.