How to Repair a Double Glazing Window
Double glazing repairs are typically best left to experts as the tools required are extremely specific. Professional repairs are covered by a warranty that you will not get if you do it yourself.
Common problems include discoloured UPVC frames misting between glass panes and broken locks or handles. It's time to contact an expert in double glazing when you spot any of these problems.
Broken Glass
It is essential to fix a cracked window pane as soon as possible. This will prevent the crack from becoming an entanglement of spiders and keep water, cold and debris from the home. Many times, homeowners can repair the cracks, without having to replace the entire window.
The glass that has cracked must be first removed from the frame. You can do this by hand using a putty or other tools for deglazing. It is recommended to wear protective gloves and eye protection when handling broken glass. After the glass has been removed, it should first be kept in a secure location before it is disposed of.
Once the old sealant and glazing points have been removed, the empty frame should be thoroughly cleaned with a wire brush and a damp cloth. It is then an ideal idea to employ a hair dryer or a heat gun to soften the remaining sealant and glazing, making it easier to take off. After cleaning the frame it is advisable to apply a small amount of linseed to the rabbets on which the glass will be placed to ensure that the glass is adhered tightly.
Next, cut the glass to the right size to ensure it will fit into the frame. If the gap is very large you can apply an individual piece of glass repair film to fill the gap and hold in the new glass. If the gap is smaller, a piece of clear or concealing tape can be sprayed on both sides of the crack to keep it from expanding further.
Once the glass is cut to the proper size, it can then be placed into the frame and secured using putty or glazing. Then, it's recommended to apply a coat of paint on the frame when it is required. If the glass has wood molding around it, you should take these pieces off prior to installing the new pane. They can be damaged in the process of removing the old window and replacing it.
Condensation
Condensation is a typical issue with double glazing. If condensation is present it is recommended to ventilate the room as often as possible, especially during times of high humidity. This will help reduce condensation. A dehumidifier is also useful. If you are unable to manage to keep the condensation at bay, seek out a professional to fix your windows as soon as possible. A build-up of condensation can lead to black mold, which poses a serious health risk.
In the event that you do not get your double glazed window fixed could cause damage or degrading frames, and the gaps that insulate the glass panes could be compromised. This will allow cold air to enter your home and will affect the efficiency of the heating unit.
It is worth contacting the company that fitted your double glazing to determine whether they provide warranty support as they may be able to repair or replace your units at no cost particularly if you bought them recently. Contact them to find out for advice or guidance on how you can prevent condensation from happening in the future.
Use a non-abrasive product like cerium dioxide or iron oxide that you can apply using the help of a cloth. Then wipe the window's surface with a cloth until it's completely dry.
Another option is to drill tiny holes into windows with double glazing and then tuck a desiccant bag inside, this will absorb any moisture that has accumulated between the glass panes. This is a great short-term fix. It is important to remember that the condensation will go away after you have closed the hole.
Professionals can usually resolve the issue of condensation through sealing the draught or by replacing the seal on the inside of the window. This can be accomplished by simply replacing the broken seal but in some cases, they might recommend changing the entire window. If there is a significant amount of condensation on the outside of the window they might recommend replacing the entire frame.
Misting
Double glazing is an excellent investment for any home, keeping your home warm and reducing outdoor noise. Double Glazing Window Repairs can also save you money by increasing the efficiency of your energy. If your double-glazed windows start to fog, you should act immediately to stop further damage.
The misting indicates that the seal has failed between the two panes, causing moisture between the windows. This could be a difficult issue to resolve. The best option is to contact a professional window installer and have the double-glazed sealed unit replaced.
Cleaning your double-glazed windows regularly is a good idea to prevent condensation. This will help to keep them in good shape and extend their lifespan. Make use of a vacuum cleaner with a brush and focus on the areas where dirt tends build up.
Having your windows professionally cleaned is a great way to maintain their appearance. It can also stop the accumulation of grime that could cause the seals to break down and let moisture in. Alternately, you can attempt to eliminate the fog yourself by using a spray bottle that contains an anti-fog solution. But, this approach is time-consuming and requires the ability to drill holes into the double-glazing window. It's not recommended unless you're a skilled DIYer.
If you have double-glazed windows that are still under warranty, call the installers to ask for a replacement. In many cases, a company can repair or replace the sealed unit and will even offer a new warranty on windows.
Double glazed windows that have been blown occur when the seal is broken between the two panes permitting cold air to enter the window, and warm air to escape. This causes the spacer bar to be inside the glass with moisture that eventually builds up and causes a cloudy appearance. Although it is possible to fix blown double glazed windows by replacing the glass, this won't solve the condensation that is already within the window.
Broken Frame
You'll have to replace the frame if it's damaged. The best method to accomplish this is to find a local supplier of glazing. They will sell new frames at a reasonable price and install them quickly. They will also be able to assist you with any questions that you might have. They can also guide you on what kind of window is best for your home.
The first step is to remove the existing window pane. This task can be accomplished by hand if you wear gloves and take your time to remove each piece of glass. This will stop cracks from spreading even more. Then, you should place the glass in a box or another container that is suitable to ensure safe disposal.
Next, you'll need get rid of the old glue that's keeping the glass in place. This can be accomplished by making it a chisel or using a heat gun to soften it. After the putty has been removed then you can take out the nails and clips from the frame and then scrub the wood with a wire brush until it's clear of paint and dirt.
After the wood is cleaned, sanded and then painted with a sealer that protects it, you can start to reassemble your double-glazed window frame. It's a good idea to use a caulk gun to apply a thin layer of silicone sealant around the edges of the frame both outside and inside. This will keep the elements out and stop the build-up of moisture up, which could cause decay and damage to the frames.
Once the caulk has been sprayed after which you can begin fitting the glass in the frame. The glass points are metal triangular triangles which hold glass in place. They must be firmly pushed into the frame, and pressed against the glazing or putty to ensure that they do not move. Then, you can apply more glaziers compound to the glass and frame. Allow it to dry before painting. This should make sure that your windows are in the same style. You'll have to replace any molding or trim taken off when the frame was removed.