Double-glazed windows and doors keep heat out, draughts out in and noise out, minimising the noise from barking dogs or traffic on nearby roads. They also act as a deterrent for burglars as they are difficult to break.
Like any other home improvement product, they may be a problem. This article will address some of the most frequent issues and solutions.
Broken panes
Snow, a rogue pebble from your lawnmowers' hose or a drink placed too heavily on a glass-topped coffeetable can all shatter windows. This can expose your home to the elements and is an unsightly sight to behold. Double paned windows can be repaired by replacing the damaged glass and then restoring their frames. A reputable window company can make replacement glass panes, but the repair is relatively easy to make yourself if have experience with wood-frame windows and some basic tools.
The first step in repairing windows that have been damaged is to remove the old window and glazing points from the frame. This requires some attention as the old glass is often hard and brittle. Wear gloves and a face mask to shield yourself from flying bits of glass. Use a putty knife to pry up the old glazing compound and the glazing points from the frames' recesses.
Take measurements of the opening to the new glass after you have removed the old one. The pane should be a little smaller than the size of the rabbet grooves in order to allow the window to expand and contract in response to weather changes. Hardware stores can cut panes to exact measurements.
Once the new pane has been set, wrap a string of glaziers' putty around the frame's perimeter and into the glass-frame joint. If the putty appears too hard, you can soften it by dipping a knife in the linseed. Then smooth the compound to create a neat and even joint.
When the putty has dried paint it over with a quality exterior house paint and allow it to cure completely. If you don't have any exterior paint, you can also restore the finish of your putty by using wood varnish. Make sure to remove any varnish from the glass prior re-glazing it. This will stop the putty from sticking to the glass and leaving water staining that could cause permanent damage.
Misted panes
Double glazing is a fantastic method to keep your home looking clean and modern. However, if you have double glazing with misted or condensation in between panes it's not just unsightly, but can cause your home to feel cold and uncomfortable.
Double glazed windows are made by sealing two panes of glass together and filling the gap with air or gas (such as xenon or argon) to create an insulating barrier that keeps heat in and cold out. Sadly, this seal can fail over time due to many reasons. This includes age environmental factors, such as high temperatures and humidity levels and problems with the installation.
It is essential to address the issue as soon as it occurs. If left untreated, it can cause further damage and decrease the energy efficiency of your home.
Repairing double-glazed windows isn't difficult. You can use a desiccant to absorb moisture, and then reinstall the air seal, or you can drill into the window. Then clean the area by using rubbing alcohol. This technique requires certain level of DIY expertise and is not recommended for people who do not feel comfortable drilling into double pane windows.
A towel that has been soaked in vinegar can be placed between the window panes. This will help in absorbing the moisture and stop future condensation from forming. Once the towel is saturated, leave it in place for a few hours, then wash the window thoroughly with water to get rid of any excess vinegar.
If you're looking to repair double-glazed windows without drilling holes there are kits that allow you to clear the glass from the outside using dry pellets that disintegrate in time. These kits are typically affordable and are extremely efficient in getting rid of condensation and restoring double-glazed windows back to their original splendor. However, it's worth remembering that this solution only works for a short time and may need to be repeated often according to the amount of moisture present in the air between the windows.
Sagging panes
Over time, windows will start to sag when they aren't properly anchored or secured. A window that is sagging is not just unsightly, but also means the seals have failed, reducing the efficiency of the glass and frame. double glazing near me is the primary indicator of sealant failure and a indication that it's time to get the windows replaced. In double-paned windows, the space between each pane is filled with silica. The gel can absorb water vapor and prevent condensation. This is the primary reason why double-paned glass windows are more energy efficient than single paned windows.
Install L-brackets on the bottom of your frame to correct sagging windows. This will stop the sash from sliding below the lower hinge shoe. This can be done easily by a double-glazing repair company and is a reasonably inexpensive way to restore your sagging windows.
Broken seals
Modern double-glazed windows come with window seals which are essential for keeping your home energy efficient and draught free. However, they could be broken due to damage or wear and wear and tear, or extreme weather conditions. When the uPVC seal is damaged the cold air can be able to enter your home in the winter months, while hot air can escape in summer. This will increase your heating and cooling costs.
There could be a problem with the seals if there are drafts emanating from the frame of the window or if your glass appears fogging. The latter is a clear indication that the seals are damaged and the inert gas (usually argon or Krypton) which was vacuum sealed between the two panes has escaped and allowed moisture to enter the window. If moisture is not taken care of, it can cause dampness and mold which could be hazardous to your family's health as well as comfort.
Another indication of a damaged window seal is the appearance of condensation that cannot be wiped away from the inside or outside of your glass. Modern double-paned windows sealed with an inert gases can have this issue. It occurs when glass and air temperatures are not in harmony. If your windows are still protecting your home from the elements and allowing the space you want to live in it is likely that the seals have failed or blown, but rather they're simply old and need to be replaced.
Last but not least, ensure that the frame of the window and the surrounding area of the glass are free from any chips, cracks or discoloration. These indications of damage could mean that the frame has moved around the glass panes, which could cause the seals to break. It is recommended that your windows are professionally replaced every year, at a minimum, to ensure that they're functioning properly.
There are a myriad of methods for resealing your windows, but the best approach depends on the extent of the damage and the state of your windows. Always seek advice from an expert before attempting any DIY projects on your windows to ensure that you're using the correct materials and methods.
