Double Glazing Window Repairs
You can save money on heating bills by fixing your double-glazed windows. Professionals use the best tools and will know exactly how to accomplish it.
They can also give you advice on the latest technology for energy efficiency. Many new double glazing windows come with a guarantee of 10 or 20 years, but some give lifetime guarantees.
Broken Panes
Cracks in double glazing aren't only unsightly; they're also a barrier to cold or heat getting into or out of your home. The good news is, most damaged panes can be repaired without replacing the entire window. To stop the crack from spreading, tape the area with packing or masking tape. The tape should be extended past the edges of the glass on both sides. It's also recommended to cover the area with plastic, like a tarp or garbage bag, to keep the rain, bugs and animals out.
Then, you can remove the glass from its frame using the help of a utility knife and a pair gloves. Make sure to take the glass out in one go, rather than breaking it into small pieces. Be cautious as shattered glass pieces can fall and cause further damage. It's important to recycle old glass properly.
Once the old window has been removed, you'll need determine the opening for a new pane. Be sure to measure carefully and remember that wood expands and expands or contracts over time. It is usually recommended to subtract 1/16 to 1/8 inches from the measurement to ensure the new pane fits snugly. Then, you'll need a piece of double-strength glass cut to these precise dimensions, and purchase enough glazier's points or clips to be placed every 6 inches around the perimeter of the windowpane.
A professional will drill holes in the window and then close the gaps using the use of a liquid sealant. This creates a waterproof barrier, which will keep your home warm and dry. The process takes anywhere from one to three days, and it's important to allow the sealant to completely dry before proceeding.
Although some double-pane windows can be repaired with this method however, it's generally recommended you replace the window when you're experiencing condensation, draughts or other issues that aren't solved by drilling or taping. Moreover, since specialized tools are required for the repair correctly, it's not a good idea to attempt the job yourself unless you're a seasoned DIYer.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem when the humidity or temperature of a room changes. It can result in water droplets when it comes into contact with cold surfaces, and may get trapped between the double glass should the seal fail. The good thing is that it's usually not an issue, and there are a few ways to test it before calling for professional window repair experts.
One alternative is to use a hairdryer with an extremely low temperature (and at a safe distance) to remove any stagnant moisture that's trapped in between your windows. But, this is only temporary solution and will not stop condensation from occurring in the future, unless you address the cause of the issue. A permanent solution is to ensure that you have enough ventilation in your home and that you balance humidity levels. This will help you save money on your energy bills and decrease the risk of mould and damp developing around your windows.
Another option to deal with condensation is to employ a defogger. A small hole is drilled into the double-glazed window, and then a cleaner solution sprayed into it. This eliminates moisture from the air. This is only an interim solution and is not guaranteed to eliminate the condensation over time. However, you might find that this is an affordable alternative until you get your window repaired professionally.
Visible condensation could be a sign that the sealant in between the double paned windows have failed. If you notice this it's essential to call your double glazing company as soon as possible and have any problems put in writing. This will help if you have to use your warranty later on.
It's also worth lubricating any hinges, mechanisms or handles on your double glazing to see if it can help. You can also apply a dry cloth to clean off any fog. However, repair double glazing windows will not solve the issue - that there's no clean and dry space in between your windows. If you're unable resolve this issue and you're not able to fix it, then replacing your windows might be required.
Draughts
Nothing is worse than a cold breeze coming through your double-glazed. It can make your entire home feel draughty even if the rest of your home is warm. It's good to know that most draughts are simple to fix and can save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills.
A draught typically originates from gaps around windows and doors. These can be caused by poor fitting, loose plaster around the frames, decaying wood or even paintwork that is loose. Draught proofing is one of the cheapest ways to cut down on your energy costs. It stops warm air from leaving your home in winter, and cold air from entering in summer, meaning you don't need to keep heating your home to a high temperature.
The installation of draught-proofing strip is the best way to prevent drafts. These strips are available in different materials, such as brush, foam, or rubber. They can be placed around the bottom or sides of doors. You can also get draught proofing for sash and casement windows. You can add brushes to sliding sash windows and rubber strips to casement windows.
You can also put a draught-excluder in the gap between your floorboards. This will stop warm air from rising and causing a draft. This is only effective if your floorboards are not carpeted. You can also put the cover for vents for an open fire, even if it's not being used and seal the gaps under sinks, around extractor fan vents in chimneys, and in any other vents that aren't being used in your house.
Misted double glazing is a common problem that is easily fixable by creating a new seal. Many double glazing companies will offer to drill the glass unit and then insert a plug. But this is just a temporary solution. Contact the company that installed and sold your double-glazed to ask them to repair the glass unit. It might cost more but replacing the entire window will be cheaper.
Mist
Condensation between the panes of double-glazed windows can cause mist. The sealant that holds the glass together keeps moisture from getting out. However, it is possible for it to be damaged or worn out due to an accidental impact or weathering. This should be repaired as soon as you can and could cause homeowners to experience a variety of problems, including damp and mould and even high energy bills.
There is an easy and quick solution to fix the problem without having to replace the entire window. Simply drilling a few holes into the window will allow you to put in a desiccant bag, which will absorb any condensation between the glass panes. This will solve the issue and leave your windows clear and clean.
If you don't want go to the trouble of drilling holes into your double-glazed units, there are companies out there offering to do this for you. However, this option will cost a lot and requires a degree of practical skill and knowledge to be successful.
In some instances, it might be necessary for the window to be replaced if it has suffered other significant damage such as massive rot, or even severe cracks. This is especially the case when you want to upgrade to a-rated Low E glass for improved insulation and savings on your heating costs.
It is best to call the company that installed your double glazing. They should be able fix the misting issue or offer you an offer on a replacement unit depending on whether it's still under warranty. For more general maintenance and maintenance of your double glazed windows, it's worth periodically checking the mechanisms and hinges, handles, and places where the windows or doors enter the frame for signs of wear and tear. Cleaning your double glazing will also help to minimise any issues related to condensation and moisture in between the panes. If you're having trouble opening or closing your windows, lubricate the hinges and mechanisms with some oil or grease.