Double Glazing Window Repairs
You can save money on heating costs by having your double-glazed windows repaired. A professional will employ specific tools and know how to complete the task correctly.
They'll also be able to advise on the latest energy saving technology. Some double-glazing windows have a warranty of 10, or even 20 years. Others offer lifetime warranties.
Broken Panes
Cracks in double-glazing aren't only unsightly, they also act as a barrier for cold and heat to get into or leave your home. The good news is that the majority of broken panes can be repaired without replacing the entire window. To stop the crack from spreading, tape the area with masking or packing tape. Extend the tape past the edges of the glass on both sides. It's also a good idea to cover the area with plastic, like a tarp, or a garbage bag, to keep the insects, rain and the elements out.
The next step is to remove the old glass pane from its frame using an utility knife and a pair of gloves. Make double glazing repairs to take the glass out in one go instead of breaking it into small pieces. Be very careful because glass pieces that break could be thrown around and cause more damage. It is essential to recycle old glass properly.
After you have removed the old window, you will need to measure the opening of the new window. Be sure to take your measurements with care and remember that wood expands and contracts with time. It is generally recommended to subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches each way from the measurement to ensure the new glass is fitted snugly. Get enough glaziers' points or clips for every 6 inches along the length of the pane.
A professional will drill a series of holes into the window to remove any moisture, and then apply a special sealant to the gap. This will create an impermeable layer that will keep your home warm and dry. The process can last anywhere from one or two days to several weeks. It is essential that the sealant is completely dry before you can move to the next step.
While some double-paned windows may be repaired with this method it is generally recommended to replace the window when you experience condensation, draughts, or other issues that cannot be solved by tapping or drilling. It's also not a good idea for beginners to attempt the job themselves, as specialized tools are needed for the correct repair.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern when the humidity or temperature of a room changes. It forms water droplets on cold surfaces. It can become trapped between double glazing if the seal fails to seal. The good thing is that it's rarely an issue, and there are some things you can try before calling an expert window repair specialist.
Use a hairdryer at low heat and a safe distance to eliminate any moisture that's trapped between your windows. This is a temporary solution that does not stop condensation from occurring until the root of the issue is identified. The best way to solve the problem permanent is to ensure that your home has adequate ventilation and that the humidity levels are at a reasonable level. This will help you save money on energy bills as well as decrease the risk of mould and damp forming around your windows.
A defogger is a different method to combat condensation. A small hole is drilled in the double glazing and then a cleaning solution sprayed into it. This removes moisture from the air. It's only a temporary solution and it cannot be guaranteed to completely eliminate the condensation over time. However, you could consider this to be an affordable alternative until you get your window fixed professionally.
Condensation visible is an important indication that the sealant between the double pane windows has failed. It is essential to contact your double-glazing provider when you notice this and have any issues documented. This will make it easier in the event that you have to use your warranty later on.
You can also try lubricating hinges, mechanisms, or handles on your double-glazing and see if that aids. You can also apply a dry cloth to clean off any dust. However, this will not solve the issue, which is that there is no clean and dry space in between your windows. If you're unable to fix this, then replacing your window may be necessary.
Draughts
There's nothing more unpleasant than a cold breeze coming through your double glazing that can make your entire home feel cold, even though the rest of your home is warm. Luckily, most draughts are simple to fix and can save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills.
A draught usually comes from gaps around doors and windows. Poorly fitted plaster, loose or rotting timber, even loose paintwork can create drafts. Draught-proofing is a cost-effective method of reducing your energy costs. It prevents warm air from entering your home in winter and cold, cold air from entering your home during summer.
The best way to prevent draughts is to fit draught blocking strips. These are available in various materials, including foam, brush or rubber strips that can be positioned around the bottom of the door or on the sides or top of the frame. You can also get draught proofing for sash and casement windows. There are brushes that can be fitted to sliding sash windows as well as rubber strips for casement windows that can be glued or screwed in place.
You can also try using a draught excluder in the gap under your floorboards in order to stop warm air from rising and causing the draft. This is only effective in the event that your floorboards aren't carpeted. You can also add an air vent cover for an open fire, if it isn't in use and seal the gaps around sinks, around extractor fan vents, in chimneys and in any other vents that aren't being used in your home.
Misted double glazing is a typical issue that can be fixed quite easily by establishing an entirely new seal. Many double glazing companies offer the option of drilling misted glass units and then insert a plug, but this is typically a temporary solution. It is recommended to contact the company who installed and sold your double glazing to request that they repair the glass unit. It could cost more, but replacing the whole window will be less costly.
Mist
Mist is the result of condensation between the panes of a double glazed window. The sealant that holds the glass together stops the moisture from escaping, however it is often damaged or worn out by accidental collisions or due to weathering and aging. It is crucial to repair this as soon as possible since it can lead to various issues for homeowners, from damp and mould to high energy bills.
There is a quick and easy solution to this issue without having to replace the entire window. Just drilling a few holes through the window unit will allow you to tuck in a desiccant bag that will take any condensation between the glass panes. This will resolve the problem and keep your windows clear and clean.
If you don't want take on the task of drilling holes in your double-glazed units, there are also companies out there offering to do it for you. However, this method will be costly and requires a degree of expertise and experience to be successful.
In certain cases windows that are damaged in other ways like extensive rot or severe cracks it might be required to replace it. This is particularly true when you want to upgrade to A-rated Low E glass to increase insulation and lower heating costs.
It is advisable to contact the company who installed your double-glazing and ask them for help. They should be able repair the misting or offer you discounts on a replacement unit depending on whether it's still under warranty. It is important to check your double-glazed windows frequently for signs of wear. This includes handles, hinges and areas where the door or window passes through the frame. Keep your double-glazed windows clean to prevent condensation or moisture that may be present between the panes. If you are having difficulty opening or closing your windows, lubricate the hinges and mechanisms using some oil or grease.