15 Terms Everybody Involved In Repair Double Glazing Industry Should Know
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
If your double glazing is draughty, difficult to open, or has dropped or sagged, it could require repair. Hinges mechanisms, handles, and seals can all be repaired or replaced by a qualified tradesman.
It is possible to do some repairs yourself, but it's usually more time consuming than hiring a professional to do it for you. It is also less dangerous.
1. Broken Panes
Double pane windows make use of the space between the two panes in order to create an airtight seal. This helps keep the heat inside and cold outside. However, this seal may be compromised by a physical force or exposure to extreme temperatures. This is why it's so crucial to repair cracks in double pane windows when they begin to occur. A small crack can get worse over time, eventually leading to a broken double pane window.
If you've got a damaged pane, it's recommended to contact a professional. They'll be able to locate a replacement that fits your frame. Then, they'll put in the new pane and make sure it's secure. It's also important to remove any old putty and glazing points prior to installing the new window.
This can be a difficult job, so it's best to wear gloves and eye protection. Make use of a paint scraper that is a pull type or an old chisel to break out the old putty. To ensure that the putty doesn't crack you can place a hot gun on it to slowly soften it. Once the putty has been removed, you will have to clean the grooves and sand them. You can then apply silicone caulk to ensure durability.
It's best to order a new pane of window glass from your local hardware or home improvement store. Before you do that, take measurements of the width and height of your frame to determine what size window is right for your home. Subtract 1/8 inch on all sides to get the exact measurements for a replacement. You could end having windows that don't fit correctly and expose your home to elements.
2. Condensation
Condensation is a common issue that a majority of double glazing owners will encounter at some point during their windows' lifespan. It usually occurs due to a lack air circulation or humidity problems that cause cold surfaces such as windows to attract moisture. This is a particular issue in bathrooms, as excessive steam will travel through the window, and then get cooled to form condensation on the glass's surface.
This moisture can cause heat loss from your home, which will increase your energy costs. If this condensation is left untreated, it could cause mould and damp in your home.
The most effective way to prevent condensation is to open your windows each morning (unless it's extremely cold!) and make sure you keep the vents for trickle vents open when you leave. You can also use dehumidifiers at home to suck up excess water and prevent it forming on surfaces such as your double glazing.
In more serious cases, you may need to replace your double-glazed windows completely when the seal between the two panes has been damaged. This is a costly fix, but it will make your building or home more energy efficient and warmer. Verify that your double glazing is still covered by warranty. If it is, the installers will replace the window units for free. Avoid DIY solutions for condensation as this may invalidate the warranty.
3. Leaks
Water droplets or mist between the panes of your double glazing is a sign that something is wrong with the seals of your window. It doesn't mean you need to replace the window. It can be fixed by replacing the caulking.
The most common cause of this problem is due to the varying temperatures that cause the frames of double-glazed windows and doors to expand and shrink. This can lead to gaps appearing in the frame, which could eventually allow water to enter the home.
Another reason could be that the insulating gases within the window are dislodged with time. This could create drafts and let moisture into the home. If your double-glazed windows have difficulty to close and open, wiping them down with cold water can temporarily fix the issue until warmer weather returns.
The majority of double-glazed doors and windows are covered under a warranty from the company that installed them. If you're having issues with your double glazing that fall within this guarantee, be sure to contact them as soon as you can. Ideally, this should be done by telephone or in person, and followed by a letter stating what the issues are and when you first noticed them. This will prevent any confusion later on if there is a dispute regarding what was or wasn't covered under your guarantee. It will also ensure that your complaint is taken seriously by the company that carried out the work. If you are unable to get a satisfactory response from the company you bought the double glazing from, it might be worth seeking the services of another tradesman who is endorsed by Checkatrade and is rated by their customers.
4. Damaged Hardware
A double-glazed window consists of two glass panes that are separated by spacer bars, and a gap filled with an gas that acts as an insulation. It sits in a frame made of uPVC, aluminium or wood. As time passes the hardware may be loose, and a door or window that won't open can be annoying.
If a double glazing window breaks, the cost of replacing it can be costly. Window repair companies charge between $50 and $80 an hour to take out and replace the old window. The exact price will depend on the size, shape and thickness of the window, and also the quality and design of the surrounding frame and sash. The cost of repair will also depend on whether the window is double-hung or single-hung. Windows that are larger or require roof access will cost more to repair because repair technicians require additional equipment and safety precautions.
When a double glazing window is repaired the installer will clean the surface of the new pane prior to sealing it. They will then apply a bead of silicone around the edges to ensure that the seal is watertight. This is crucial for windows located on the ground of a building, where condensation may build up in the bottom frame.
Another way to ensure your windows look good is to paint them regularly with a high-quality paint. This keeps them looking new and shiny for a longer period of time and protect them from UV rays. Double-glazed windows also make your home quieter and will increase its value in the marketplace by making it more efficient in energy use and comfortable for buyers to reside in.
5. Glass damaged
A double glazed window is intended to create a barrier to heat for your home and keep cold air out and warm in. This reduces the amount of sun that enters a space and also helps protect your furniture from sun damage. But sometimes, glass can get broken. A pebble might bounce off a lawnmower or a strimmer and breaks a pane. Perhaps a child throws a ball against it, or an accident occurs. Whatever the reason, a broken window could be a hassle.
A damaged or cracked window is usually repaired with epoxy, or a product similar. It is crucial to wash the area and remove any old putty surrounding it prior to applying new epoxy. You can soften the putty using a cotton cloth soaked in linseed or a heat gun. Then you can scrape off the splintered glass, and then cut the edges to remove any trace of old putty from the frame.
Then apply the epoxy on the crack, spreading it over the entire surface. It is essential to press it firmly into the crack. Allow the epoxy to completely dry before you can put in the replacement pane. Make sure Repair My Windows And Doors is the same size to the one you had before. If you are replacing leaded glass take care to bend the H shape lead back over it.
If you aren't comfortable working on DIY repairs to your windows or if your windows are damaged beyond repair, it's best to get an expert. Checkatrade makes it easy to locate a reliable and skilled tradesperson. Enter your postal code and the details of your project and you will be connected within a few minutes with local experts.