The Reason Why Repairing Double Glazed Windows Is More Risky Than You Think
Repairing Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing can be an excellent investment for your home. In time, it may create problems such as misting and condensation.
This could be due to a number of causes, but usually due to the seals no enough air tight, which can lead to a loss in the gas that acts as an insulation between the glass panes. It is beneficial to know how to repair double glazing.
Broken Panes
A accidental ball from the lawnmower or a stone that has been thrown around even a claw from a cat can cause a double-glazed window pane to shatter. If this happens, heat or cold air can travel more easily between the two panes glass which makes your home less insulated and increasing your energy costs. If both windows are shattered, it's time to call an expert to replace them.
If one of the panes is damaged but not completely broken, it could be be repairable. First remove the old glass from the frame while wearing gloves and safety glasses. Then using a painter's tool and gradually warming it with a heating gun, take out the loose putty from the edges of the broken glass. Place a piece of aluminum foil over the glass to prevent them from breaking after the putty has been removed.
When the frame is ready to accept a replacement pane lubricate a cheap glass-cutting tool (available in the majority of hardware stores) with WD-40 or a similar lightweight oil. Cut the glass around the perimeter, about 1 inch from the edge. Then, place the glass inside the rabbets (the l-shaped grooves) in the window frame. Use the chiseled edges of the tool to take away any excess putty around the edges.
After the new pane is installed, press the glazier's facets into the frame every six inches around the edge where it joins the glass. Then apply another cord of glazier's compound over the frame-glass joint, and smooth it with the putty knife. If your windows are made of metal then you can paint the joints with an adhesive specifically designed to stop rust.
Cracks
Even though it is rare double glazing cracks can happen suddenly, especially in older windows. It is usually caused by pressure variations between two panes of glass, which are caused by extreme temperature fluctuations. This is why it's essential to keep your blinds shut during hot weather and not open them too far when the sun is shining. this helps to prevent excess heat from accumulating between the two panes of glass.
The best way to avoid cracks in your double glazed windows is to make sure that the frames are secure, especially on the hinges, locking mechanisms, and handles. Double-glazed windows must be simple to open and close and should not sag or stick. Wiping the hinges and mechanisms with a little oil can assist, as could making adjustments to the screws and locks to ensure they're secured enough.
It's important to keep in mind that a damaged window is not just unsightly, but can be very risky. If you see shards on the floor and a crack in the double glazing, it is best to call an emergency glazier. It is more beneficial to replace the damaged glass rather than attempting to repair it.
If you see condensation between the two panes, it is a sign that your seals aren't working properly and should be repaired immediately. A reliable glazier can drill into the sealed unit and inject or pump a drying agent, typically a desiccant into the window to rid it of any moisture. This is a fast cost-effective and affordable solution to this issue. Be aware that this is an interim solution and you'll have to replace the windows in the near future.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue with older double glazing. It happens when air moisture is pulled into the gap between the panes and then condenses during the night. This is a normal occurrence and not a sign of any fault with the windows or glass, however it can be a source of frustration for homeowners because it hinders the double glazing performing properly as it ought to.
The solution is to add vents or trickle vents to the frame and allow air to flow through, thus removing any condensation build up within your home. The addition of this feature will also help keep heat in the house and help reduce energy bills in the long run.
A professional can often solve the issue without replacing the entire window. They'll make tiny holes in the window to expel any trapped moisture, and then apply an anti-fog coating.
It is a good idea to contact the company you bought your double glazing from when you begin experiencing issues. This is so that they can send out a technician to investigate the issue and fix any issues before they become worse. It is also a good idea to have all communication in writing, like an email or letter, because this makes it easier to dispute any claims in the future.
It is possible to repair certain things yourself, but it is generally quicker and more efficient to employ a professional. This is particularly applicable to any issues that require the use of specialist tools. Professionals will also provide the guarantee of their work, which you may not receive if you attempt to fix the double glazing yourself.
Draughts
Double-glazed windows are becoming more popular due to their the efficiency of energy, lower noise levels within the home, and protect furnishings from UV rays. They can also reduce condensation which is a typical cause for mould. If they are not properly installed, air could easily get through the gaps between the glass panes, leading to drafts.
In double-glazed windows, the space between two panes of glass is filled with an insulating gas. Spacer bars usually contain a desiccant, which assists in drawing moisture away from the gap, which prevents interior condensation. However, as the desiccant ceases to function to remove moisture from the spacer bar, it's likely for condensation to form between the glass panes. This is a typical issue with double glazing that's badly made. However it can be easily fixed by drilling holes into the glass or spacer bar and inserting an humidifier.
The space between the two panes of glass in a double-glazed window acts as an insulator by limiting the transfer of cold air from outside to inside your home. The insulating performance can be improved even further by using an inert low-conductivity gas like argon to fill in the gap.
Double-glazed windows are more costly than single-glazed windows to install however they're generally worth the cost as they can reduce cooling and heating costs, protect furnishings from UV damage and can improve the value of your property. If you are considering installing double-glazed windows for your home, you should consult an experienced installer such as Thermawood. Their retrofit double glazing system lets you to benefit of a high-quality IGU without removing your existing frame and cladding.
Replacement
Double glazing offers many benefits to homeowners, it increases energy efficiency, reduces condensation and noise. It also decreases the possibility of draughts and the growth of mould on the window panes. However, they aren't indestructible and issues can occur. It's important to keep in mind that you can get most double glazing faults repaired instead of replacing them, saving you the cost and hassle of putting in new windows installed.
Double glazing owners typically have to repair a leaky seal. If this is the situation, it is important to contact a professional to schedule an installer of windows to come out and complete the repairs required.
A window that isn't easy to close or open could be a source of trouble. It could be due to heat or because the mechanism is becoming stiffer over time. Try cooling the mechanism down and lubricating hinges or handles in the event that this is the cause. It could also be the case that the frame is sliding or has fallen and requires re-alignment.
Misting is also windows repairs near me that can be fixed easily. It happens because the rubber seals that keep the two glass panes together break down as time passes. This is usually caused by the frames moving slightly as they age and compacting the particular packaging material that holds them in place, which then leads to one or both panes of your double glazing shifting and breaking the seal.
Drilling into the glass can be used to remove moisture. This is a short-term solution though and will likely need repeating. A better long-term fix is to install trickle vents inside your frames. This will allow fresh air to enter but will not let any warm air escape.