11 "Faux Pas" That Are Actually OK To Make With Your Double Glazing Windows Repairs

Double Glazing Windows Repairs

Double glazing is the term used to describe panes of glass in the frame of a window or wall opening. Sometimes, this window glass becomes faulty and may need repairs.

If you've noticed condensation between the windows or noticed a distinct draught or if the handles and hinges are becoming difficult to open or close, these are all indications that your double glazing needs to be repaired. This repair usually involves a reseal on the entire unit.

Broken Panes

Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes, with an air space between them, which is filled with inert gases like argon and krypton. This helps keep the heat inside your home, while also preventing cold drafts and moisture from getting in. Sometimes, windows will be damaged, and the whole window may need to be replaced. It is essential to contact the company that sold you the double glazing in the event that you spot cracks or chips appearing in the window.

It is possible to repair a broken pane of glass by following a few easy steps, but it's not recommended unless you have previous experience in DIY. Put on gloves first and carefully remove the damaged window pane. If it is cracked, apply strips of masking tape across the areas that are cracked in a crisscross pattern. This will prevent the cracks from worsening over time, especially in the winter. It is also advisable to protect your work area with newspapers to prevent any broken pieces from falling. After the broken pane has been removed, scrape away any glazing putty or window seal with the help of a putty knife. Then, remove the glazing points using pliers. Then, use an adhesive that quickly dries to apply a coat of primer on the wooden surface.

Take measurements of the length and width of the channels that have grooves using an instrument. Subtract 1/8" from both measurements to account for the slight movement of the replacement pane. Then, roll a short rope of glazing compound into the grooved channels and then slide the glass into place. Tap the glass gently with the hammer every 6" or 8" to help it set in its place. Be careful not to break it.

If you have a double-glazing warranty, it's worth trying to use this to avoid the expense of a full replacement window. In general the warranty will cover both the cost of the replacement parts and labor. You should verify the terms as they will vary from company to company.

Foggy Glass

Foggy glass is usually the result of condensation that occurs between the panes of your double-glazing. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including variations in temperature, especially when the frames aren't set properly, or even the aging of the seals themselves.

The good news is that in most cases it can be fixed easily by an experienced double glazing installer. It is recommended to contact the company that installed your windows right away if you notice any problems. Then follow up with a written reply. It will be easier to reach the company should you need to contact them later. This is also helpful in the event that your warranty or guarantee covers the problem.

The most effective way to stop the fogging is by replacing the gasket seals. This can be done without having to replace the entire window unit and it will also help to keep your home energy efficient. To accomplish this, the window glazier will take off any retaining clips or strips that hold the IGU in place and then cut through the old sealant using a saw.

They'll then design or order a new IGU that will fit the frame, and they'll apply special sealants to ensure it's air-tight and watertight. After they're done, they'll reinstall the retaining clips or strips and apply more sealant to ensure that it's secure.

If you're lucky, the misting will cease after this. It's essential that your frames are ventilated properly to prevent the build-up of moisture in your walls or ceilings.

Double glazing owners have also reported that their doors and windows are difficult to open and close. This may be due to extreme weather conditions, or simply because the frame has sagged over time and isn't aligned with the rest of your home. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames with cold water to shrink them down slightly - but it's unlikely that this will solve the issue completely. If you're unable to resolve the issue, you may require the help of an expert to replace them.

Condensation

Condensation occurs when the insulating gases in double-glazed windows fail to hold their place, leaving moisture and air between the panes. This is more prevalent in winter, when humidity levels are higher. However it can also occur at other times. A build-up of moisture can lead to mildew and mould around sills windows, sealants and window frames that are not only unattractive but also harmful to your health. A window expert can usually seal condensation to lessen moisture and prevent the build-up of moisture in your home.

Window sealing, or window gaskets, are an essential component of any double-glazed window or door. Gaskets are used to seal the enclosed space between your window glass to prevent drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. The gaskets may perish or shrink in time due to weather, temperature conditions and ageing, meaning that you may notice condensation appearing on your double-glazed windows or doors.

This can be repaired however, it will require replacement of the "sandwich" (thermo-pane & glass) inside your double-glazing window. It is recommended that, unless you have the right tools, you hire an expert to seal your double-glazed window.

Another issue that is common is the mist that forms between double-glazed windows. This can be difficult to resolve. This is a sign that the seal on the vacuum in the factory has failed, and that there's now no way to move dry air inside here or out of the window sandwich.

Professionals will reseal the window using the same procedure they would employ to solve problems with condensation or fog. This usually involves removing a sandwich and spraying the cleaning agent on it, followed by sucking out the old sealing agent. It is important that you precisely measure the sandwich's length width, thickness and length to ensure that the replacement is a perfect fit, and a new seal can be drawn between the glass.

This is a tough job that requires tools that aren't commonly found in DIY shops. It is best to leave this job to professionals, because faulty seals could lead to mold and damp in your home. This can be costly and dangerous to your health.

Water Leaks

If you see water getting into your double glazing windows it's important to take action quickly. The smallest leak can become a major issue if not addressed quickly.

The window frame can be the cause. Check that the sill pan which is the flat bottom of the window frame, is sloping so that water drains away from your house and not into the frame. If you notice that the sill pan has not been properly pitched or you see water in the wood you should consult a double-glazing repair service.

A damaged window seal is another common cause of leaks. This could be due to the aging process or damage, or even weather. This isn't as easy to fix, and is generally best left to the experts.

This can lead to lower efficiency of energy. This allows cold air to enter your home in winter, and hot gas to escape during summer. This could result in higher costs for cooling and heating.

The most straightforward solution is to apply a new layer of caulking. While it is possible for people with some DIY skills to complete this on their own it is normally much easier to let a double glazing expert handle it for you. You will feel secure and have a guarantee that the job has been done correctly.

Some double glazing windows come with warranties of up to 20 years. It is best to contact the company that supplied you with your windows to find out what warranty they offer and how long it lasts. This can save you the expense of having replace your double glazed windows in the future. If you have a warranty on your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to make sure to report any issues as soon as possible. This can be done online or by calling the company directly. The information you have in writing can be useful if you ever require the use of your warranty.