Double Glazing Window Repair
Over time, double glazing can create problems, such as being difficult to open windows or doors that snags. These issues can be easily fixed.
Many homeowners will try to fix these problems themselves. However it should be left up to the experts. It's risky to fix these issues without the proper tools and information.
Broken Panes
A damaged window can be a stressful and inconvenient issue. It could let hot or cold air in your home, and leave a gap which allows moisture or debris to enter. It can also lower your energy efficiency, as your AC and furnace have to work harder to keep your home cool. You may be able depending on the weather and whether your windows are double-paned or single-paned, to repair the damage temporarily by applying silicone sealant. However the final solution will require professional help.
The tape is strong enough to fix a damaged or cracked window. A strip of tape placed over the crack will stop it from worsening. A crack that extends through the glass or is too large to cover with tape, must be completely replaced.
Broken glass can result from numerous factors: a stray pebble from the lawnmower that strikes the window an unintentionally placed drink heavily on a glass-topped table; or a pet's excited jump when you open the door. It can also occur naturally as the frames of your windows shift in a slight manner and break the protective packaging material that keeps the glass sheets in the right place.
Wear thick work gloves when you have a broken pane of glass. Place a cardboard box near the pane to collect any shards. Then remove the sash from the frame and work on a flat surface such as a table. Wear a mask to ensure not to breathe in the glass fragments.
After removing the old glass, clean any varnish and paint from the window frame. You can also use a heat gun to soften any old glazing putty as well as metal glazing points that held the glass in the first place.
You can then take measurements of the opening to make the new pane. You should always get your replacement glass slightly smaller than the opening of the original to allow for expansion and contraction. Make sure that your local hardware or home center cut the glass according to these measurements.
Once you have your new glass, you can press it into the frame. If there are any gaps, fill them with silicone caulk which is available from a home improvement store. Smooth the caulk with a putty knife. Add glazier's points to the frames and corners of the glass every six inches so that the glass is held securely in place.
Condensation
No matter if your double-glazed windows are new or old it's common for them to develop condensation. This is particularly the case in winter when colder air is able to meet warmer glass. Although it can create some issues, it's typically a major issue. This is because condensation on windows actually indicates that your double-glazed is working correctly.
It can be an indication that your seal is not working and water is flowing through the gap. You may notice an appearance of milky water on the window or beads appearing across its surface. This is something that needs to be dealt with to prevent the growth of mold, mildew, or other damage.
Condensation can be easily eliminated. A technician will drill a small number of holes in the window frame, which allow the trapped moisture to escape. The process is known as defogging. It can also help to remove any stains that are caused by the trapped moisture.
Defrogging doesn't fix the underlying issue of a faulty window seal. In fact, it might not even if the condensation is gone, since the damaged air that was between the panes is still there. This could mean that you will still not receive as much heat insulation from your windows as you would like to.
If you've noticed that moisture is building up in your windows It's a good idea to speak with a professional as soon as possible to see what the next steps to take be. They might be able to suggest a solution for example, adding vents to the windows to let fresh air enter but without letting warm air escape.
It's the last thing you want for your double-glazing to go down. This is particularly true when it will be expensive to replace. With the right skills, equipment and knowledge, you are able to repair your double glazing and keep it in good condition for many years. If you require a double glazing repair call us now to discuss how we can help. We provide a range of services, from replacing one or more panes glass to installing energy-efficient upgrades.
Leaks
Leaks can cause damage and are expensive to repair. It's expensive to fix, and it's usually a sign that your property has other problems such as mould or dry rot. This is why it's crucial to take care of leaks promptly.
If you notice that your double-glazed windows have a draught, it is likely that the seal has failed. It could also mean that the argon gas used to encase the glass panes has gone out. This can be resolved by an expert technician who will reseal the window.
Sometimes, dirt may cause a double-glazed window to appear cloudy or hazy. This is usually an indication that the seal is degrading, and the glass should be cleaned. This can be accomplished by a professional using high-pressure water jets that quickly clean the glass of any dirt or debris.
If however, condensation is beginning to form between the two glass panes of your double glazing then this is an indication that the seal has opened a leak and that there is no argon between the panes of glass. This is a serious issue and could indicate that your double glazing is not insulate your home as well as it should. The glass unit can be replaced, but you'll have to do it earlier rather than later, as the performance of the double-glazed window has been impacted.
If you own double-glazed windows covered by warranty, you should call the installer and report any issues with the units or seal of the glass. It is highly unlikely that the warranty will cover these issues. If you attempt to alter the seals with the units or attempt to repair them yourself, it will void the warranty, and you should always leave these repairs to the professionals. We recommend hiring an expert in double glazing repair.
Weather Damage
In areas of extreme weather, double-glazed windows require a sturdy frame that can keep the glass panes in place. Ice, snow, high winds and tumultuous thunderstorms can all result in damage to your windows. If you notice cracks, dents or holes in your window, call an expert to repair your double glazing.
If you notice that water is leaking from the bottom of the window, it could be an indication that the inner seal has been damaged and is allows water into your home. Your uPVC window frame or aluminum window frames may also be warping or bending. You will need to replace the window seal and then reinstall it inside the frame to repair this.
double glazing repairs Stanmore ensure that double-glazed windows are airtight, prevent heat from escaping your home and prevent condensation between the glass panes. Window seals are typically constructed of uPVC aluminum, timber or aluminum and hold the glass in the right place. If the window seals break down, you can encounter issues such as draughts, energy loss and windows that have mist.
Misting windows are a common problem and is caused by the insulating gas inside the double-glazed window breaking. The argon gas holds the glass in place and forms an airtight seal, but in the event that the seal is damaged or worn out, it could allow the gases to escape. The argon gas could cause condensation between the glass panes when it escapes.
The issue can be resolved by replacing the window seal and re-inserting glass. You can apply an anti-fogging treatment to avoid future condensation. It is recommended to employ a professional to do the work for you.
Double-glazed windows are important but they can also be damaged and need to be repaired. The majority of windows can be repaired without needing to replace them. It is recommended to have a few basic tools on hand. You will need protective gloves and a tape measure, scotch tape or a transparent film, nail polish, and a plastic sheet which can be cut to size.