7 Practical Tips For Making The Most Of Your Repairing Double Glazed Windows
Repairing Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is a great investment for your home. In time, it may cause problems such as misting or condensation.
This could be caused by a variety of reasons but is usually down to the seals no more being airtight, causing loss of the gas that acts as an insulation between the glass panes. It is beneficial to understand how to fix double glazing.
Broken Panes
A loose ball from a lawnmower, a hurled stone or even a cat's claw can cause a double-glazed window pane to break. If this happens the cold or hot air can move more easily between the two panes of glass, making your home less well-insulated and increasing your energy costs. If both windows are cracked, it's time to call an expert to replace them.
However, if one of the panes is broken, but not completely shattered, it may still be able to be repaired. The first step is to remove the old pane from the frame wearing gloves and a pair of work glasses. Then, using a painter's tool and gradually warming it using a heat gun, remove the loose putty from the edges of the glass that has been broken. Put a piece of aluminum foil over the glass to stop them from fracturing as the putty is removed.
When the frame is ready for the new pane, you need to grease the cutter with a cheap glass cutting tool -- found in many hardware stores -- using lightweight oil like WD-40. Cut along the edges of the glass, about 1 inch from the edge. Then, gently shift the glass to fit into the rabbets, the grooves that are shaped like an l, in the window frame in which it is placed. Use the chiseled edge of the tool to get rid of any excess glue around the edges.
Once the new pane is in place, push the glazier's points into your frame every six inches around the seam where it meets the glass. Then, apply another cord of glazier's compound to the frame-glass joint, and smooth it with the putty knife. If repairing upvc windows are made of steel paint the joints using an anti-rust primer specifically designed specifically for the type of metal you have.
Cracks
Although it's not common double glazing cracks can occur suddenly - especially in older windows. It's usually caused by pressure variations between two panes of glass, which can be caused by extreme temperature fluctuations. It is crucial to keep blinds shut in hot weather and to be careful not to open them too often when the sun shines. This will stop excessive heat from building between the two panes.
To prevent cracks from occurring on your double-glazed windows make sure that the frames, especially the hinges, locking mechanisms and handles are secured. A quality double-glazed window should also be simple to open and close, with no sagging or sticking. Oiling the hinges and mechanisms could assist. You can also adjust the screws and locks so that they are tight enough.
It's important to keep in mind that a window that is cracked isn't just ugly and can also be risky. If you have cracks in your double glazing and see glass shards that are falling off on the floor, you should call an emergency glazier immediately as it's probably best to replace the broken glass completely instead of fixing it.
If you notice condensation between the two panes, it is an indication that your seals aren't functioning properly and need to be repaired immediately. A reputable glazier could drill into the sealed unit to inject or pump in drying agents (typically desiccant) to remove any moisture. This is a simple and cost-effective solution. Be aware that this is only a temporary solution and that you'll need to replace your windows in the near future.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue with older double glazing. Condensation occurs when moisture in the air is drawn into the gap between the glass panes, and then evaporates at night. This is a natural occurrence that does not signal any issues with the glass or windows. However it can be a source of frustration for homeowners since it stops the double glazing from operating in the way it should.
Install vents or trickle-vents on the frame to let air flow, removing any condensation in your home. This will also keep the temperature in your home and reduce energy bills over time.
Most times, a professional can fix the issue without having to replace the entire window. They will drill a tiny hole into the window to release any trapped moisture and then apply an antifog coating.
Contact the company where you purchased your double glazing as soon as issues arise. It is essential to contact the business you bought your double glazing from the moment you start experiencing problems. This will allow them to send a technician to inspect the situation and address any issues before they get worse. It is also a good idea to have all communication in writing, such as an email or letter, because this makes it easier for you to contest any claims that you may have in the future.
While it is possible to do some repairs yourself, it is generally quicker and more effective to engage a professional to do this. This is especially applicable to issues that require specialized equipment. A professional will also offer a guarantee on their work, which you may not receive if you attempt to fix the double glazing by yourself.
Draughts
Double glazed windows are becoming increasingly popular as they help to increase energy efficiency, decrease the amount of noise that is heard in the home and protect furniture from ultraviolet light. They also help reduce condensation, which is a common cause of mould. If they're not properly installed, it's easy for air to leak through the gaps between the glass panes and cause draughts.
In double-glazed windows, two panes of glass are separated by a spacer bar, and the gap is then filled with an insulating gas. The spacer bar is usually filled with desiccant, which helps draw moisture out of the gap and prevent interior condensation. Since the ability of the desiccant to draw moisture away from spacer bars diminishes and condensation may form between the glass panes. This is a common problem with double glazing that's poorly made. However, it can be easily fixed by drilling holes in the glass or spacer bar and inserting humidifiers.
The space between the two panes in a double-glazed window serves as an insulation, preventing cold air from entering your home. Filling the gap with an inert gas, such as argon, can increase the insulation properties even more.
Double-glazed windows are more costly than single-glazed windows for installation, but they're often well worth the cost as they can reduce cooling and heating bills, help to protect furniture from UV damage and can increase the value of your home. If you're considering having double glazed windows installed in your home, be sure to work with an experienced installer such as Thermawood. Their retrofit double-glazing system allows you to take advantage of an IGU that is high-quality without removing your existing frame and cladding.
Replacement
Double glazing has many benefits to homeowners, it increases energy efficiency, reduces condensation and noise. It also decreases the chance of draughts or the growth of mould on your window frames. But, they're not impervious to damage and issues can occur. You can repair most problems with double glazing rather than replace them, which will save you money and the inconvenience of having new windows installed.
Double glazing owners typically have to repair a leaky seal. If this is the case it is essential to contact a professional to arrange for an installer of windows to come out and make the repairs needed.
A window that is difficult to open or shut can be a source of trouble. This may be due to heat or because the mechanism has become stiffer as time passes. If this is the case, try cooling down the mechanism and lubricating the handles and hinges. It could also be the case that the frame is slightly sagging or has dropped and needs to be realigned.
Misting is also a problem that can be easily repaired. This happens because the rubber seals that hold the two glass panes in place wear out with time. This is usually caused by the frames moving slightly as they age and the particular packaging material that holds them in place. This results in one or both panes of your double glazing moving and breaking the seal.
Misting can be fixed by drilling holes in the affected glass and removing moisture from inside. This is a temporary fix and will need to be repeated. Installing trickle vents into your frames will be the best long-term solution. They let fresh air into the room, but they also block warm air from leaving.