Double glazing is the use of two panes in the frame or openings in a wall. Sometimes, this window glass becomes faulty and may need repairs.
If you have noticed condensation between your windows, a visible draft, or if hinges and handles become difficult to open, it is an indication that your double glazing is in need of repair. This repair usually requires a reseal of the entire unit.
Broken Panes
Double glazed windows are made up of two glass panes that have an air gap between them that is filled with inert gases such as argon or krypton. This helps keep heat in your home and prevents cold drafts from entering. Sometimes windows get damaged, and if this happens the entire window may need replacement. If you spot cracks or chips in the window, it is essential to contact the company who sold you the double glazing immediately to inform them of the issue and inquire for a repair.
A few easy steps can be used to repair a broken window, however it is not recommended that you attempt the repairs yourself unless you are an experienced DIYer. First you'll have to put on gloves and remove the broken pane. If the pane is cracked, use masking tape in a crisscrossing design to the cracks. This will stop the cracks from becoming worse as time passes, especially in the winter. You should also cover your work surface in newspapers to stop any broken pieces from falling. After the broken pane has been removed then use a putty blade to scrape away any glazing putty and the glazed window seal. Remove the glazing points by using pliers. Then, use primer that is quick drying 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 allow for some movement of the new pane. Then, slide the new pane in place and then roll a thin rope of glazing compound into the grooved channels. Tap gently with an hammer at 6'' or 8'' intervals to help set the glass in its place, but be careful not to break the glass.
If you have a double glazing warranty, it's worth attempting to utilize this to avoid the expense of a full replacement window. In general the warranty will cover both the cost of the components and labor. It is important to verify the warranty details as they can differ from company to company.
Foggy Glass
Foggy glass is often caused by condensation that occurs between the panes of your double-glazing. It could be due to many things like variations in temperature, poorly installed frames, or the seals that have deteriorated over time.
In the majority of cases, double glazing installers can fix the issue quickly and efficiently. It is recommended to contact the company who installed your windows immediately if you find any issues. Contact them by writing a response. This will make it easier if you need to contact them again in the future. It can also be extremely helpful when the issue is covered under your warranty or guarantee.
The best way to fix the fogging is to replace the gasket seals - this is done without the need to replace the entire window unit, and it will also aid in keeping your home energy efficient. The window glazier will first remove the clips or retaining strips that are holding the IGU and then employ a saw to cut through the old sealant.
They'll then construct or purchase an IGU to fit the frame, and they'll use special sealants to ensure it's air and watertight. When they're done with the installation, they'll put in retaining clips or strip and apply additional sealant.
If you're lucky, the misting will stop. It's still important to make sure your frames are properly ventilated so that moisture doesn't build up in your walls and ceilings.
Double glazing owners also report that their doors and windows are difficult to open or close. This could be due to extreme weather conditions, or simply because the frame has become sagging over time and isn't in line with the rest of your home. If this is the problem, you can try wiping the frames with cold water to shrink them a bit. But this won't solve the problem completely. If you're unable to get the problem to go away, you may require replacement by an expert.
Condensation
Condensation happens when the insulating gasses in double glazing windows fail to hold their position, leaving moisture and air between the panes. This is more common in winter, when humidity levels tend to be higher. However, it can also happen at other times. A build-up of moisture can cause mould and mildew around sills, sealants and window frames which is not only unsightly but also harmful to your health. A window professional can often reseal condensation to reduce moisture and prevent the accumulation of moisture in your home.
Window sealing, or window gaskets, are a critical element of any double glazing window or door. These gaskets help to seal in the insulated air between your window glass and block drafts, heat, and moisture from entering your home. The gaskets can shrink or become brittle due to changes in temperature, weather conditions, and the aging process. You may notice condensation on double-glazed windows or doors.
It is possible to repair this however it will require replacing the sandwich (thermo-pane and glass) of your double-glazing window with an exact replacement. Unless you have the right tools to do the job, it is recommended that you hire a professional to re-seal your double-glazed windows.
Mist in your double-glazed windows is another common problem that can be a challenge to repair. This indicates that the seal on the vacuum in the factory has failed and that there is no way to move dry air into or out of the window sandwich.
A professional will reseal the windows by using the same procedure they would with the fog or condensation issue. This usually involves removing the thermo-pane sandwich, spraying it with a cleaning solution, then sucking out the old sealant. It is essential that you measure the sandwich in terms of width, length and thickness. This will ensure that the new one fits perfectly and that a new seal can be drawn.
This is a difficult job that requires tools that aren't often found in DIY stores. It is best to leave this task to professionals, because faulty seals could lead to mold and damp in your home. This could be costly and hazardous to your health.
Water Leaks
If you notice water getting into your double glazing windows, it is important to act fast. Even the smallest leak could become a major issue if not addressed quickly.
Often times the window frame itself could be the cause. Make sure that 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 the sill isn't pitched properly or if you see moisture in the wood, you should contact an expert repair service for double glazing for professional help.
Another common cause of water leaks is damaged window seals. This could be caused by the age of the seal damage, weather, or any other. This isn't an easy thing to fix, and is generally best left to the experts.
A window seal that is damaged can let air through the windows, which makes it less energy efficient. This can also allow cold air to enter your home in the winter, and hot air to escape in summer. This could result in high heating and cooling costs.
It is easy to fix it by applying a new layer of caulking. Although people with DIY skills are able to do this on their own, it is usually easier to have a double-glazing specialist take care of the task. This way, you'll get a guarantee and peace of mind that the job will be done right.
Some double-glazing windows come with warranties up to 20 years. You should check with the company who sold you your windows to find out what warranty they offer and how long it lasts. This will help you avoid the cost of having to replace your double-glazed windows at a later time. If you have an insurance policy on your double-glazed windows it is essential to report any issues as quickly as possible. You can do this online or by contact them directly. This information is useful in the event that you have to utilize the warranty.
