Over time double glazing may develop problems such as difficult to open windows or a door that snags. These issues are easily solved.
Many homeowners attempt to solve these issues on their own but this should be left to professionals. Doing this without the proper tools and experience could result in damage.
Broken Panes
A window that is damaged is a frustrating and annoying problem. It could let cold or hot air into your home and leave a gap that allows dirt or moisture to get into. It can also lower the efficiency of your energy, since your AC and furnace will have to work harder to keep your home cool. It is possible, depending on the weather conditions and whether your windows are double-paned or single-paned, to repair the damage for a short period of time by using a silicone sealant. However the final solution will require professional help.
Tape with a high-performance adhesive can be used to repair a cracked window. A piece of tape could be placed over the crack to stop it from becoming worse. A crack that is large enough to penetrate the glass or is too big to cover with tape, will require to be completely replaced.
The excitement of a pet when you open the door can cause broken glass. It could also happen naturally as the frames of your windows shift slightly over time and break the protective packaging material that holds the glass sheets in the right place.
When you have a broken glass pane, you should wear thick work gloves and put a cardboard box nearby to catch the shards. Remove the sash and work on an even surface, such as a table. Wear a mask to prevent inhaling the glass shattering.
Once the old glass has been removed, clean any paint or varnish from the window's frame. You can use a heating gun to soften old glazing putty or metal glazing points which held the glass in position.
You can then take measurements of the opening to make a new pane. To allow for expansion and contracting it is recommended to purchase an alternative glass that is slightly smaller than the opening. You can have your local hardware store or home center cut it according to these measurements.
Once you have your new glass, press it into the frame. If there are gaps, you can fill them with silicone caulk, which you can purchase at a home improvement store. Then, smooth the caulk with a putty knife. Attach glazier's tips to the corners of the glass and frame every six inches, so that they secure the pane in the frame.
Condensation
No matter if your double-glazed windows are new or old, it's fairly common for them to develop condensation. This is especially the case in winter, when colder air meets warm glass. Although it can create some issues, it's usually a major issue. This is because condensation on windows actually indicates that your double glazing is working correctly.
However, it could be a sign that the seal is not working, and moisture is seeping through the gap between the window panes. There may be a milky appearance on the window or water beads appearing across the surface. This will need to be addressed to prevent mould, mildew or further damage.
Fortunately condensation can be eliminated quickly. A technician will drill small holes into the window's frame to let the moisture trapped to escape. The process is referred to as defogging. It also can aid in the removal of any stains caused by trapped moisture.
The defrogging process does not solve the root issue of a damaged window seal. In fact, it might not even in the event that the condensation is gone, since the damaged air that was between the panes remains. This could mean you are not getting as much insulation as you could from your windows.
It is important to speak with an expert as soon you detect moisture in your windows to determine the next steps. They might suggest solutions such as adding vents to the windows that let fresh air to enter but not allowing warm air to escape.
It's the last thing you want for your double-glazing to break down. This is particularly true when it will be expensive to replace. Fortunately, with the right skills, knowledge and equipment, it is possible to repair your double glazing and keep it in great condition for the long term. Contact us today if you need double glazing repairs. We offer a wide range of services ranging from replacing one or several panes of tempered glass, to installing energy efficient upgrades.
Leaks
Leaks can cause damage and are expensive to repair. It's costly to repair, and it's usually an indication that your home is suffering from other issues like mould or dry rot. This is why it's important to take care of leaks as soon as possible.
If you notice that your double-glazed windows are draughty, it is likely that the seal has broken. similar web page may also mean that there is no longer any gas called argon in the glass panes that is used for insulation purposes. A professional technician can reseal your window to fix this issue.
Double glazed windows can become cloudy or misty due to dirt. This is usually a sign that seal is getting worn out and the glass should be cleaned. This can be done by a professional using high-pressure water jets that quickly clear the glass of any dirt or other debris.
If however, condensation is beginning to form between the two glass panes of your double glazing, this is an indication that the seal has sprung a leak and that there is no longer any argon between the two panes of glass. This is a serious problem and indicates that your double glazing is not insulate your home as effectively as it ought to. The glass unit is able to be replaced, but you will have to do it sooner rather than later due to the performance of your double-glazed window has been affected.
If you have new double-glazed windows under warranty, you must contact the company that installed them and inform them of any issues with the units or the sealing of the glass, as it is unlikely to be covered under the warranty. You will lose your warranty in the event that you attempt to repair the units yourself or alter them. We suggest that you employ a specialist in double glazing repair.
Weather Damage
In areas with extreme weather, double-glazed windows require a sturdy frame that can keep the glass panes. Ice snow, high winds and tumultuous storms can all result in damage to your windows. Contact a professional for repairs to double glazing if you notice cracks, dents or holes.
If you see water running down the sides of the window, it may be a sign that the inner seal has been damaged and is let in moisture into your home. The uPVC window frame or aluminum window frames could also be warping or bending. To correct this, you will need to replace the window seal and re-insert it into the frame.
Window seals ensure that double-glazed windows are airtight, stop heat escaping from your home and prevent condensation between the glass panes. The window seals, which help keep the glass in place, are made from uPVC or aluminum. If the window seals are damaged, you may encounter issues such as draughts, energy loss and misted windows.
The inability of the insulating gases in double-glazed windows is a common reason for windows to mist. The argon gas holds the glass in place and forms an airtight seal. However if the seal is damaged or worn out, it could allow the gases to escape. The argon gas may cause condensation between the glass panes when it escapes.
The problem can be solved by replacing the window seal, and then re-inserting glass. You can also apply an anti-fogging solution to avoid any further condensation. It is best to hire professionals to do the job for you.
While it is essential to have double-glazed windows they aren't immune to abrasions and will need to be repaired at times. The majority of windows can be repaired without needing to replace them. To accomplish this, it's a good idea to have a few basic tools in your arsenal. You will need protective gloves as well as a tape measure scotch tape or transparent film and nail polish, and a sheet of plastic that can be cut to size.
