Repairing Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is an excellent investment for your home, as it saves energy and money on household bills. However, if the windows and doors are difficult to open or have sagged they can reduce their thermal efficiency.
The gap between the glass panes of a double-glazed window is filled with an inert gas such as the argon gas, krypton gas or xenon. This is the part that most people complain about.
Broken Panes
Double glazing is designed to withstand the elements and hold the glass in place regardless of whether it's from a baseball, or a strong wind. But a cracked or broken window can expose your home to weather elements and can cause higher energy bills when air escapes or enters the house.
While you can fix some cracks yourself, it's often a lot more efficient to let professionals take charge of it. They can provide replacement glass quickly and, with a bit of experience, can complete the task much quicker than you think. In addition, they usually provide some form of guarantee for their work which isn't available when you attempt to repair it yourself.
The first step is to take off the old glass. Wearing thick gloves and eye protection is a good idea for this step. After you've removed the glass, you can start removing what remains of the hardened glazing compound and the glazing points using a putty knife.
After you've removed your old glazing, you will need to measure the opening of the new one. Make sure it's a bit smaller than the old one so that the seal is snug. Use boiled linseed, or a clear coat of exterior paint on wooden windows to aid the new glass stick to the frame.
The majority of companies offer a warranty on their products, typically of 10 or 20 years, so make sure to inquire with them what yours covers and until when. You should also put your complaints in writing instead of calling the company. This will provide proof that the company did not perform its duties or fails to resolve your issue.
If your double-glazed window is getting smoky it is possible to buy a specialist kit that drills holes in the frame in order to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is only a short-term fix and can result in condensation or drafts in your home. Although you can purchase DIY kits, it's generally cheaper and easier to hire experts.
Seals that leak
Double glazing is extremely durable but over time it may develop issues particularly if there are many leaks. They can be caused by issues with seals, condensation or drafts. Double-glazed windows can typically be repaired to resolve the issue, preventing you from having to replace them completely and saving thousands of pounds.
It can be a hassle to face a double glazing leak. If you notice any water or dampness around the frame of your window it is essential to notify your installer as quickly as you can. This gives them the chance to repair the seals before they begin to fall apart and cause more damage.
Many people believe it's impossible to repair leaks in double glazing, but this is not necessarily true. In fact, most double glazed windows can be fixed, providing the sealing hasn't broken down, allowing condensation to flow between the panes. This also stops the heat from your home from escaping, which will lower your energy bills.
Another common complaint with double glazing is that it may become difficult to open and close. In most instances, this can be resolved by lubricating the hinges, mechanisms, or handles. Similarly, it is important to check your warranty to see whether this is covered by the company that installed your double-glazed. If you need to replace your windows it is always worth comparing quotes from various firms to determine the best price and quality of work.
Double glazing that is misted is a common problem. It can occur with any type of glass unit. It is because the seal on the glass unit can wear out over time and permit condensation to develop between the two panes. Many companies offer to blow air through the hole drilled into the misted glass to clear it of the condensation. This is a simple, cheap solution but is not recommended as it only addresses the symptoms, not the root cause.
Condensation
Double glazing is known to cause condensation. In many instances, it can be a positive sign as it means your windows are working effectively and keeping your home warm and energy efficient. But, that does not mean that you shouldn't take steps to prevent it from happening again in the future.
To ensure that your double glazing functioning just as it should, you need to make sure that you have adequate ventilation around your property. You can get condensation on your mirrors and windows if you do not have adequate ventilation. It can be caused by a number of things, including excess humidity and lack of air circulation, particularly in areas like bathrooms and kitchens where there is plenty of moisture.
It's also worth remembering that if your double-glazing is under warranty and you're having issues with condensation, it's best to speak with the installers and inform them about the issue. In the majority of instances, it is covered under the warranty and they will be able to fix it for you at no additional cost.
Another method to deal with condensation issues is to buy a dehumidifier and put it in the location that has the biggest problem. This will help to absorb excess moisture, and prevent it from damaging double glazing or creating other issues in your home.
If you've experienced problems with condensation in your double glazing for a long time, it is possible that the vacuum seal drawn at the factory failed. This will require a replacement of the thermopane, and it is best to let an expert handle this task as any attempts at tampering with the window units can invalidate the warranty.
Damage
Double glazing is intended for insulation. It will keep your home warm while reducing your energy costs. However, there are instances of damage that can affect the performance of your windows. The most frequent issue is drafts. These can be caused by damaged hinges, handles, or locks and cause you to lose heat. double glazing repair near me can be easily resolved by simply replacing the damaged parts.
Another common issue is condensation between the glass panes. This can be a problem since it blocks out the view and may hinder light penetration. Fortunately, this can also be corrected by replacing the affected panes. This is usually accomplished by removing the old unit and replacing it with a brand new one. However, the unit might require sanding down and cleaned to ensure that the seal is airtight prior to being replaced.
Double-glazed windows that fog up are a much more serious issue. This means the gap between the glass panes has grown. This could be caused by various factors, including strong storms or winds. It could also be due a faulty window seal, or the degeneration of the unit.
If your double-glazed windows are leaking, it's important to act immediately as the integrity of the window could be damaged. This can lead to increased energy costs and draughts in your home. It is also vital to determine whether your double-glazing is still under warranty, as the manufacturer may be able to provide the replacement.
Another common issue with double glazing that can be fixed is when the windows or doors are difficult to open. This could be due to many things, including the weather and can be corrected by wiping down the mechanism or by using oil.
Double glazing can be an excellent feature in many homes. However, it could also be damaged and need costly repairs. It's important that you contact a glazier immediately when you spot any damage to your windows. By taking the proper steps now, you can ensure that your double glazed windows will perform in the way they should for the years to come.