15 Terms That Everyone Involved In Double Glazing Windows Repairs Industry Should Know
Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing refers to panes of glass in a window frame or wall opening. Sometimes, this window glass becomes faulty and may need repairs.
If you've noticed condensation in between the windows, a noticeable draught or hinges or handles are becoming difficult to open These are all indications that your double glazing requires to be repaired. The repair typically involves a resealing of the entire unit.
Broken Panes
Double glazed windows are made up of two glass panes with an air gap in between that is filled with inert gases such as argon or krypton. This helps keep heat in your home and stops cold drafts from entering. Sometimes, windows will be damaged, and the whole window may require replacement. It is important that you contact the company who sold you the double glazing if you notice cracks or chips appearing in the window.
It is possible to repair damaged glass with just a few steps, but it is not recommended unless you have previous experience in DIY. First of all you'll need to put on some gloves and carefully remove the damaged pane. If it's cracked, press strips of masking tape across the areas that are cracked in a crisscross pattern. This will stop cracks from getting worse over time, particularly in the winter. It is also recommended to protect your work area with newspapers to stop any broken pieces from falling. Once the broken pane is removed using a putty knife, you can use it to scrape away any glazing putty and the glazed window seal. Remove the glazing points with pliers. Then, use primer that is quick drying to apply a coat of primer on the wooden surface.
Measure the length and the width of the channels that have grooves using the help of a tape. Subtract 1/8'' from both measurements to allow for some movement of the new pane. Then, you can roll a thin rope of glazing compound into the channels that have grooves and then slide the glass into the grooves. Tap gently with double glazing repairs Bracknell at 6 intervals of 8'' to help set the glass in its place but be careful not to break the glass.
It is worth using your double glazing warranty to save the cost of a complete replacement window. Generally the warranty will cover the cost of any component that you may need to replace or repair, as well as the cost of labour. It is important to check the details of your guarantee because it may differ from one company to the next so be sure to understand what is covered and until when.
Foggy Glass
Condensation between the panes in your double glazing could cause foggy glass. It can be caused by a variety of things, including variations in temperature, especially when the frames aren't set properly, or even the aging of the seals themselves.
However, the good news is that, in the majority of cases this issue can be resolved easily by an experienced double glazing installer. It is essential to contact the company who installed your windows immediately if you notice any issue, and write a note. This will make it easier if you have to contact them again in the future. It can also prove extremely useful when the issue is covered by your warranty or guarantee.
The most effective way to stop the fogging is by replacing the gasket seals - this can be done without having to replace the entire window unit and will also help keep your home energy efficient. The window glazier should first remove any retaining strips or clips which hold the IGU and then employ a saw to cut away the sealant that was previously used.
Then, they'll build or purchase a replacement IGU to fit the frame and apply special sealants to ensure it's airand water-tight. After they're done installing the clips or strips that hold it and apply more sealant to ensure it's secure.
If you're lucky, the misting will cease after this. But, it's crucial to make sure your frames are properly ventilated to ensure that moisture doesn't accumulate within your ceilings and walls.
Another frequent issue faced by owners of double glazing is that their doors or windows become difficult to close and open It could be the result of extreme weather conditions, or it could mean that the frame has dropped or sagged over time, and isn't in line with the rest of your house. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames with cold water in order to shrink them a little - however, it's unlikely to solve the problem completely. If you aren't able to solve the issue away, you might need to have them replaced by an expert.
Condensation
Condensation occurs when the insulating gas in double-glazed windows fails to hold its place, allowing air and moisture between the panes. It is more common during winter, when humidity levels are higher. However, it can also happen at other times. Moisture can cause mould and mildew to form around window frames, sealants, and sills. It's not just unattractive, but it's extremely harmful to your health. A window professional can often seal condensation to decrease moisture and prevent the accumulation of moisture in your home.
Window gaskets are an essential part of any double-glazed window or door. They help seal in the insulated air between your window glass and stop drafts, heat, and moisture from entering your home. The gaskets may perish or shrink over time due to temperature fluctuations, weather conditions, and aging, which means that condensation could be appearing on your double-glazed windows or doors.
It is possible to fix this, but it will likely require replacing the sandwich (thermo-pane and glass) of your double glazed window with an exact replacement. If you don't have the proper tools it is recommended that you have a professional re-seal your double-glazed windows.
Another issue that is common is the mist that occurs between double-glazed windows. This can be an issue that is difficult to fix. This is an indication that the factory vacuum seal has failed and there is no way to let air into or out of the sandwich.
Professionals will reseal your window by using the same method they would use to fix problems with condensation or fog. This usually involves removing the sandwich and spraying the cleaning agent on it, and then sucking out the old sealing agent. It is crucial to accurately measure the'sandwich' in length as well as width and thickness to ensure that the replacement will be a perfect fit and a new seal can be drawn between the glass.
This can be a challenging task that requires specialized tools that aren't typically found in DIY stores. It's best to leave it to the professionals as incorrect seals can result in mold and damp in your home which can be both expensive and dangerous to your health.
Water Leaks
It's important to take action when you begin to notice water leaks from your double-glazed windows. If you don't act swiftly even the tiniest leak could become a major issue.
The window frame could be the culprit. Verify that the sill pan (the flat bottom of the frame) is pitched to allow water to drain away from your home, and not into the frame itself. If you see that the sill pan is not pitched correctly or you can see water in the wood, you should consult a double-glazing repair service.
A damaged window seal is a common reason for leaks. This can be due to the age of the seal or damage, or even weather. This isn't as easy to fix, and is generally best left to the experts.
A window seal that is damaged can allow air to pass through the windows, making it less efficient in energy use. This can also allow cold air to enter your home during the winter, and hot air to escape in summer. This can lead you to costly cooling and heating costs.
It is easy to repair by applying a new layer of caulking. Although those with DIY skills can do this themselves however, it is more efficient to have a double glazing specialist take care of the job. You'll feel secure and have a guarantee that the job was done properly.
Some double glazing windows are covered by warranties that last up to 20 years. It is best to contact the company that supplied you with your windows to find out what warranty they offer and for how long. You can avoid the expense of replacing double-glazed windows in the future. If you have a warranty on your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to register any issues as soon as you can. You can do this on the internet or by contacting them directly. The information you have in writing will also be helpful if you ever require the use of your warranty.