The Reasons Double Glazing Window Repairs Is More Difficult Than You Think
Double Glazing Window Repairs
You can cut down on heating bills by having your double-glazed windows fixed. Professionals will use the right tools and will know exactly how to do it.
They can also advise you on the latest energy-saving technology. A lot of new double-glazed windows are covered by a guarantee of 10 or 20 years, however certain windows offer lifetime guarantees.
Broken Panes
Cracks in double-glazing are not only unsightly, they also act as a barrier for cold and heat to get into or leave your home. The good news is, most broken panes are repairable without having to replace the entire window. The first step is to tape the cracked area with masking tape, stretching it past the glass's edges on both sides to stop the crack from expanding further. It's also recommended to cover the crack with plastic, like a tarp, or a garbage bag, to keep rain, bugs and animals out.
Next, you'll need remove the old glass pane from its frame using an utility knife and gloves. Make sure to take the glass out in one swift move instead of breaking it into smaller pieces. Be careful, because glass pieces that have broken could be thrown around and cause more damage. It is also crucial to recycle old glass in a proper manner.
After you've removed the old window, you will be required to take measurements of the opening of the new window. Be sure to take your measurements carefully and keep in mind that wood expands or shrinks over time. To make sure that the new pane will fit snugly it is best to subtract between 1/16 and 1/8 inches from each side of the measurement. Buy enough glaziers' pointing or clips for every 6 inches around the perimeter of the pane.
A professional will drill holes in the window, and then fill in the gaps with an adhesive liquid. This creates a waterproof barrier, which will keep your home warm and dry. The process can take between a few days to several weeks. It is essential that the sealant is completely dry prior to moving on.
While some double-paned windows can be repaired using this method, it is generally recommended to replace the window when you are experiencing condensation, draughts, or other issues that can't be solved with drilling or taping. It's also not a good idea for an amateur DIYer to attempt the job themselves, as specialized tools are needed to do the repair correctly.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern when the humidity or temperature of a space changes. It can cause droplets of water when into contact with cold surfaces and it can also get caught between the double glass should the seal fail. The good news is that it's usually not an issue, and there are a few things you can try before calling in professional window repair specialists.
One alternative is to use a hairdryer on low heat (and at a safe distance) to eliminate any stagnant water that's trapped between your windows. This is a temporary solution that won't stop condensation from recurring until the root of the issue is fixed. The best way to solve the issue permanent is to ensure that your home has adequate ventilation and that the humidity levels are in balance. This will help you save money on your energy bills and to reduce the chance of mould and damp forming around your windows.
Another method to combat condensation is to use a defogger device. This is a small hole that's made into the interior of the double glazing and the cleaning solution is spraying in, which eliminates any moisture from the air. This is a temporary measure and won't guarantee the elimination of condensation in the long-term, but it might be an economical option for you until you can have your window repaired professionally.
Visible condensation is a key indication that the sealant between the double pane windows has failed. If you notice condensation, it's crucial to contact your double glazing company as soon as possible and have any issues put in writing. It will be easier to claim your warranty in the event that it is needed in the future.
You can also try lubricating hinges, mechanisms or handles on your double-glazing and see if that helps. You can also use a dry cloth to clean off any haze. However it won't solve the issue, which is that there is no clean and dry space in between your windows. If you're not able to resolve this issue, it could be necessary to replace your window.
Draughts
Nothing is more annoying than a cold breeze coming through your double glazing. It can make your entire house 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 is usually caused by gaps around doors and windows. They can be caused by poor fitting, loose plaster around the frames, rotting wood or even loose paintwork. Draught proofing is one of the most cost-effective methods to reduce your energy costs. It prevents warm air from exiting your house in winter and cold air from entering during summer, so you don't have to keep heating your home as high.
The best way to prevent the draughts from happening is to install draught proofing strips. These strips are available in a variety of materials, such as rubber, foam or brush. They can be installed on the sides or bottom of a door. You can also get draughtproofing for sash and casement windows. There are brushes that can be incorporated to sliding sash windows as well as rubber strips for casement windows, which can be screwed or glued in the place.
You could also try using a draught excluder in the gap between your floorboards in order to stop warm air from rising and creating an air draw. But, double glazing repairers is only effective if your floorboards aren't carpeted. You can also put the cover for vents to an open flame even if it's not being used and seal the gaps between sinks, around extractor fans in chimneys, and in any other vents that aren't used in your house.
Double glazing that is misted is a regular problem. It can be repaired by creating a new seal. Many double glazing companies provide the option of drilling misted glass units and then insert plugs, however this is often a short-term solution. It is better to contact the company that installed and sold your double glazing and request that they repair the glass unit. It might cost a little more however it is cheaper than replacing the entire window.
Mist
Mist is caused by condensation between the panes of a double-glazed window. The sealant that holds the glass together stops the moisture from escaping, however it can be damaged or worn down by accidental impact or due to ageing and weathering. It is essential to get this repaired as soon as you can since it can lead to various issues for homeowners, ranging from mould and damp to excessive energy bills.
There is a simple and quick way to fix this problem without replacing the entire window. Just drilling a few holes in the window unit will permit you to insert desiccant bags, which will take any condensation between the glass panes. This will resolve the problem and keep your windows looking clear again.
There are companies that will drill holes in your double-glazed units on your behalf. But, this process can cost you money and requires a degree of expertise and experience to successfully complete.
In certain cases, if the window is being damaged by other factors such as extensive rot or severe cracks it might be necessary to replace it. This is especially relevant if you plan to upgrade to Low E A-rated glass to increase insulation and save on heating expenses.
It is best to contact the company who installed your double glazing. They should be able fix the misting issue or offer you discounts on a replacement unit based on whether it's still under warranty. It is crucial to examine your double-glazed windows regularly for signs of wear. This includes hinges, handles and the areas where the door or window passes through the frame. Keeping your double glazing clean will also help in reducing any issues related to condensation and moisture in between the panes. If you are having difficulty opening or closing your windows, you can lubricate the hinges and mechanisms with some oil or grease.