How to Repair a Double Glazing Window
Double glazing repairs are typically best left to experts as certain tools are required for. 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 handles or locks. It's time to contact an expert in double glazing in the event that you experience any of these issues.
Broken Glass
If a window pane breaks it is essential to repair it as soon as possible. This will prevent the crack from spreading into a spider's web and will keep water, cold and other debris out of the house. In many instances, homeowners will be able to repair cracks on their own without replacing the entire window pane.
The glass that has cracked must be first removed from the frame. This can be done by hand with the help of a putty knife, or any other deglazing tool. When dealing with broken glass, it is recommended to wear gloves and eye protection. After the glass has been removed, it should first be kept in a secure area prior to disposal.
After removing the old sealant, and the glazing points, the frame must be thoroughly cleaned using a wire bristle and damp cloth. Then, use a hair dryer or a heat gun to melt any remaining sealant. This will make it easier to take off. Once the frame has been cleaned, it is recommended to apply a small amount of linseed oil to the rabbet grooves where the new glass will go to ensure that it adheres strongly.
Next, cut the glass to the right size to ensure it will fit into the frame. If the gap is wide, a piece glass repair film can be used to fill in the space and hold the new glass in place. If the gap is much smaller, a piece of clear or concealing tape can be applied to both sides of the crack to keep it from spreading further.
Once the glass has been cut to the right size, it can be placed into the frame and fixed with putty or glazing. It is then a good idea to apply any paint that may be needed on the frame. If the glass has wood moldings around it, you must remove the pieces prior to installing the new glass. They can be damaged in the process of removing the old window and replacing it.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem with double glazing. If you experience condensation, try to air-condition the room as much as possible especially at times of high humidity, this can help reduce condensation. A dehumidifier will also be beneficial. However, if you can't manage to keep condensation at bay, seek out a professional to fix your windows as soon as you can. The accumulation of condensation could result in black mold, which is an extremely dangerous health risk.
Failing to have your double-glazed window fixed could result in damaged or degrading frames, and the insulating gap between the glass panes could be compromised. This can allow cold air to enter your home, which will impact the efficiency of the heating unit.
It is a good idea to contact the company that installed your double glazing to see whether they provide warranty support as they might be able to repair or replace your units at no cost particularly if you bought them recently. It is also worth contacting them to find out if they can offer assistance and advice on how to avoid condensation in the future.
Use a non-abrasive product like iron oxide or cerium dioxide, which you can apply using an abrasive cloth. You can then wipe the window surface until it is dry.
Another alternative is to drill small holes into your double glazed windows and then place a desiccant sachet inside, this will help absorb the moisture that has built up between the glass panes. This is a practical short-term solution. However it is important to remember that the condensation should disappear when the hole is been sealed.
Professionals can solve the problem by replacing the seal inside the window or by sealing the drafts. This can be accomplished by simply replacing the damaged seal, however in certain cases they may recommend replacing the entire window. If there is a substantial amount of condensation present on the outside of the window they may recommend replacing the whole frame.
Misting
Double glazing is a good investment that pays off in the long run. It will keep your home warm and block out outside noise. It also increases the efficiency of your energy use, and saves your money on heating costs. However, if double glazed windows start to fog up it's crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage.
double glazing repairs can be a sign that the seal has failed between the two panes and has left moisture between the windows. This can be a very difficult issue to resolve. The best option is to contact an experienced window installer and have the double glazed sealed unit replaced.
To prevent the formation of condensation in the windows of your double-glazed windows it is recommended to wash them on a regular basis. This will ensure they are in good condition and increase their lifespan. For the best results, it's a good idea to use a vacuum with a brush attachment and concentrate on areas where dirt tends to accumulate.
It is possible to keep the appearance of your windows by having them professionally cleaned. This can also stop the accumulation of grime which could cause seals and windows to fail. You can also try to get rid of the fog by yourself using a spray bottle containing an anti-fog solution. But, this approach is time-consuming and requires the ability to drill holes into the double-glazing window. This method is not recommended unless the DIYer has been experienced.
If you have double-glazed windows that are still covered by warranty, you should contact the installers and request replacement. In most instances, a company will be able to repair or replace the sealed unit and will even provide a new warranty on windows.
Blown double-glazed windows happen when the seal between the two panes of double glazing breaks down, causing cold air to enter and warm air to leave. The spacer bar within the glass is filled with moisture, which eventually accumulates and creates the appearance of mist. While it is possible to repair double-glazed windows with blown glass by replacing the glass unit, this won't solve the condensation present in the window.
Broken Frame
If the frame of your double-glazed window is damaged, you'll need to replace it. Find a local glass supplier. They will offer new frames at a fair price and install them quickly. They will also be able to assist you with any questions you may have. They can also advise you on the most suitable window for your home.
The first step is to remove the window panes that are currently on the frame. This task can be accomplished by hand if you are wearing gloves and make sure to pull out each piece of glass. This will stop cracks from spreading more. Then, put the glass in a container or other container suitable to ensure safe disposal.
Next, you'll need to take off the old putty that's holding the glass in place. You could either chisel the putty out or use a heat gun on it to soften it. After the putty is removed, remove any nails or clips from the frame. Then clean the wood with wire brushes until it is free of dirt and painted.
Reassembling your double-glazed window frame can be done once the wood is cleaned and sanded. It's also coated with a sealer that protects. It's a good idea to employ a caulk gun to apply a thin layer of silicone sealant around the edges of the frame both outside and inside. This will block out the elements and keep moisture from building up which can cause damage to frames and decay.
After the caulk has been applied, you are now able to fit the glass into the frame. The glass points are metal triangular triangles that keep the glass in place. They should be pushed into the frame and pressed hard against the glass or putty to ensure they won't move. Then, you can apply more glaziers' compound on the glass and frame and allow it to dry before painting. It is recommended to do this to match your other windows. You'll have to replace any molding or trim removed when the frame was removed.