The Double Glazing Windows Repairs Case Study You'll Never Forget

Double Glazing Windows Repairs

Double glazing refers to the panes of glass that are placed inside frames for windows or walls opening. The window glass can be damaged at times and may require repairs.

If you've noticed condensation between your windows, a noticeable draft, or if handles and hinges become difficult to open, it is a sign that your double glazing needs repair. This repair will typically involve an entire reseal of the unit.

Broken Panes

Double-glazed windows comprise of two glass panes that have an air gap which is filled with inert gases like argon or krypton. This keeps heat in your home and stops cold drafts from getting in. Occasionally the windows can become damaged and when this happens the entire window may need replacement. If you notice a crack or chip in the window it is important to contact the company who supplied you with the double glazing as soon as possible to notify them of the problem and inquire for a repair.

A few steps can be taken to fix a damaged window pane, although it is not recommended you attempt the repairs yourself unless you're a skilled DIYer. Put on gloves first and then carefully remove the damaged window pane. If the pane is cracked, use masking tape in a crisscrossing pattern over the areas that are cracked. This will stop the cracks from becoming worse over time, particularly during the winter. It is also advisable to cover the work surface with newspapers to prevent any broken pieces from falling. After the broken pane is removed, scrape off any glazing putty or glazed window seal with the help of a putty knife. Then, remove the glazing points using pliers. Finally, paint the bare wood with a fast-drying primer.

If you are able to purchase a new replacement pane take measurements of the length and width of the channel with a tape measure. Subtract 1/8' from both measurements to allow for slight movement of the new pane. Then, slide the new pane into place and roll a thin rope of glazing compound in the channels with grooves. Tap the glass gently using the hammer every 6" or 8" to help it set in place. Be careful not to break it.

It is a good idea to take advantage of your double glazing warranty to avoid the cost of a total replacement window. Generally the warranty will cover the cost of any component that you may require replacement or repair, as well as the cost of labor. It is important to check the details of your guarantee as it will vary from one company to the next, so make sure you know the coverage and when.

Foggy Glass

Foggy glass is often caused by condensation in between the panes your double-glazing. It could be due to many things, such as variations in temperature, poorly installed frames, or the seals that have deteriorated over time.

However, the good news is that in most cases it can be fixed easily by an experienced double glazing installer. It is essential to contact the company who installed your windows as soon as you notice a problem, and always follow this up in writing. It will be easier to reach the company should you need to contact them later. This is also helpful when your warranty or guarantee covers the issue.


It is possible to solve the issue by replacing the seals on the gaskets. This will not necessitate replacing your entire window unit. It will help keep your home more energy efficient. To accomplish this the window glazier must remove any clips or strips that hold the IGU in place and then cut through the sealant with the aid of a saw.

They'll then build or order an IGU that is designed to fit in the frame, and then they'll apply special sealants to ensure that it's air - and watertight. After they're done with the installation, they'll put in retaining clips or strip them and apply more sealant.

If you're lucky, the misting may end after this. But, it's crucial to make sure your frames are properly ventilated so that moisture doesn't build up within your ceilings and walls.

Another frequent issue reported by double glazing owners is that their windows or doors become difficult to open and close - this can be the result of extreme weather conditions, or it could mean that the frame has dropped or sagged over time, and isn't sitting at a level with the rest of your house. If this is the problem you can try wiping down the frames with cold water to shrink them a bit. However, this will not resolve the issue completely. If you can't solve the issue away, you might require replacing them by a professional.

Condensation

Condensation happens 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 tend to be higher. However, window repair can also happen at other times. Moisture build up can cause mould and mildew around sills, sealants and window frames which are not only ugly but also harmful to your health. The good thing is that condensation can often be resealed by a professional window installer to help reduce moisture in your home and stop the build-up of moisture.

Window sealing, also known as window gaskets, are an essential component of any double-glazed window or door. These gaskets seal the enclosed space between your window glass to stop drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. Gaskets can degrade or shrink over time due to weather, temperature conditions, and aging, which means that you might notice condensation developing on double-glazed windows or doors.

This can be fixed however, it will require replacing the "sandwich" (thermo-pane & glass) in your double glazing window. It is recommended that unless you have the correct tools, you get an expert to re-seal your double-glazed windows.

Another common problem is mist that forms between double-glazed windows. This is an issue that is difficult to fix. This is an indication that the vacuum seal in the factory has failed, and there is no way to get air into or out of the sandwich.

A professional will reseal the windows with the same method as they would for fog or condensation issues. This typically involves removing the sandwich and spraying the cleaning agent on it, followed by sucking out the old sealing agent. It is crucial to precisely measure the sandwich's length width, thickness and length to ensure that the replacement is an exact fit and a new seal can be drawn between the glass.

This is a difficult job that requires tools that aren't commonly found in DIY shops. It is recommended to delegate this job to professionals as incorrect seals could cause mold and damp in your home. This could be costly and dangerous to your health.

Water Leaks

If you notice that water is getting into your double glazing windows, you must take action quickly. The smallest leak can turn into a big problem in the event that it is not addressed promptly.

The window frame can be the culprit. Check to make sure the sill pan (the flat bottom portion of the frame) is pitched to allow water to drain away from your home and not into the window frame itself. If you see that the sill pan has not been properly pitched or you see water in the wood you should consult a double-glazing repair company.

Another common cause of water leaks is a damaged window seal. This can be due to age or damage, or even weather. This isn't an easy fix and should be left to experts.

A window seal that is damaged can allow air to pass through the windows, making it less energy efficient. This lets cold air in your home in the winter and hot gas to escape in summer. This can result in high heating and cooling costs.

The simplest method to fix this is to apply a new layer of caulking. Although those who have DIY skills can do it themselves but it is generally better to have a double glazing specialist take care of the task. You will have peace of mind and a guarantee that the job was done properly.

Double-glazing windows can have warranties of up to 20 years. It is recommended to check with the manufacturer you bought windows from and determine what warranties they provide and for how long. This will save you the expense of having to replace your double glazed windows in the future. If you have a warranty on your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to register any issues as soon as you can. You can do this on the internet or by contact them directly. Having all of this information in writing will also help if you require the use of your warranty.

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Pub: 07 Feb 2024 09:18 UTC
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