Repairing Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing can be an investment that will benefit your home. Over time, it can create problems such as misting and condensation.
It could be caused by a variety of causes, but usually due to the seals no longer being air-tight, 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 stray ball from a lawnmower, a hurled stone or even a cat's claw can cause a double-glazed window to shatter. This allows heat or cold to move more easily between two layers of glass, which can result in lower the insulation and resulting in higher energy bills. If both windows are shattered and you're in need of an expert to replace them.
However, if one the panes is broken, but not completely shattered, it may still be possible to repair it. First, remove the old glass from the frame wearing gloves and safety glasses. Then using a painter's tool and gradually warming it up with a heating gun, take out the putty that is loose around the edges of the broken glass. Place a piece of aluminum foil on the panes that are next to it to keep them from cracking after the putty has been removed.
When the frame is ready for the new pane of glass, lubricate the cutter on the cheap glass cutting tool found in many hardware stores -- using light oil such as WD-40. Cut along the edges of the glass, roughly 1 inch from the edge. Then, put the glass inside the rabbets (the grooves with an l) in the window frame. Then, use the tool's chiseled edge to scrape any putty that is left over from the edges of the glass.
Press glazier's tips into the frame in intervals of six inches around the joint where the glass meets the frame. Apply another cord of glaziers compound to the frame-glass joints and smooth using a putty blade. If your windows are made from metal it is possible to paint the joints with a primer specifically designed to stop rust.
Cracks
Even though it is rare double glazing cracks can occur suddenly, particularly in older windows. The reason is usually due to the difference in pressure between the two panes glass, caused by extreme temperature variations. It is crucial to keep blinds closed during hot weather and to not open them up too often when the sun shines. This will prevent excessive heat from building between the two panes.
To prevent cracks from forming on your double-glazed windows make sure that the frames, including the hinges, locking mechanisms, and handles, are well secured. A good double glazed window should also be simple to open and close, with no sticking or sagging. Oiling the hinges and mechanisms may aid. You can also adjust the screws and locks to ensure they are secure enough.
It's important to remember that a damaged window isn't just ugly but also dangerous. If you have cracks in your double glazing and you can see shards of glass that are loose on the floor, contact an emergency glazier as it's likely to be best to replace the broken glass entirely instead of fixing it.
If you see condensation between the two panes of glass, this is an indication that your seals aren't functioning properly and should be repaired immediately. A reputable glassmaker can drill into the sealed unit to inject or pump in a drying agent (typically desiccant) to remove any moisture. This is a quick and cheap solution. But be aware that this is only a temporary fix and that you will have to replace your windows in the future in the future.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem with older double glazing. It occurs when the moisture from the air is drawn into the gap between the panes and is able to condense during the night. This is a natural phenomenon that does not indicate any issues with the windows or glass. However it can be very frustrating for homeowners since it stops the double glazing from working in the way it should.
Install vents or trickle-vents on the frame to allow air to flow, eliminating any condensation that may be present in your home. This will also keep your home warm and lower energy costs over time.
Sometimes, a professional can fix the problem without having to replace the entire window. They'll drill a tiny hole into the window to let any moisture trapped and then apply an antifog coating.
Contact the company where you purchased your double glazing as soon as problems arise. This is so that they can send a technician out to investigate the issue and fix any issues before they get worse. It is recommended that all communications be written. This can be done via mail or letters.
While it is possible to complete some repairs yourself, it is normally much easier and less costly to hire a professional to do this. This is particularly the case for issues that require specialist equipment. A professional can also provide the guarantee of 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 improve energy efficiency, reduce the amount of noise that is heard inside the home, and protect furniture from ultraviolet light. They can also reduce condensation which is a typical cause of mould. If they aren't properly installed, air can easily escape through the gaps between the glass panes and cause the air to draught.
In double-glazed windows, two glass panes are separated by a spacer bar and the gap is then filled with an insulating gas. Spacer bars usually contain a desiccant that assists in drawing moisture out of the gap, thus preventing interior condensation. However, when the desiccant is no longer able to remove moisture from the spacer bar, it's likely for condensation to form between the panes of glass. This is a common issue with double glazing that's been poorly made. However it is easily resolved by drilling holes into the glass or spacer bar, and then inserting a humidifier.
The space between the two glass panes in a double-glazed window acts as an insulation by limiting the transfer of cold air from outside to your home. The insulation efficiency can be enhanced by using an inert low-conductivity gas like argon to fill the gap.
Double-glazed windows cost more money to install than single-glazed windows however, they are usually worth it as they can reduce your cooling and heating costs, protect your furnishings from UV damage, and also increase the value of the property. If you're considering installing double-glazed windows for your home, you should consult an experienced installer such as Thermawood. Their retrofit double glazing system allows you to enjoy the benefits of a premium IGU without removing your existing frame and cladding.
Replacement
Double glazing can bring many benefits for homeowners. It improves the efficiency of your energy use and reduces noise. It also decreases the possibility of draughts and mould building up on your window panes. They aren't indestructible and, in some cases, problems may occur. It's important to keep in mind that you can have most problems with double glazing repaired rather than replaced which will save you the expense and hassle of having new windows fitted.
Double glazing owners often have to repair a leaky seal. If this is the case, it's essential to contact an expert as quickly as possible to arrange an appropriate time for a window fitter to come and carry out the required repairs.
A window that is difficult to close or open could also be a problem. It could be due to heat or the mechanism is stiffening up over time. 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 dropping or sagging and requires re-alignment.
Misting is also a problem which can be easily fixed. The rubber seals that keep the two glass panes together wear down over time. The frames are prone to shifting slightly as time passes and the packaging material that holds them in place compacts. This causes panes to move, and break the seal.
Drilling into the glass is a way to eliminate moisture. upvc door repairs near me is a temporary fix and will need to be repeated. Installing trickle vents inside your frames is an ideal long-term solution. They allow fresh air into the room, but prevent warm air from escaping.