Double Glazed Window Repairs
If your double glazed windows are misting up it may indicate a problem with the seals between the glass panes. This can affect the thermal performance of your house and should be fixed as soon as possible.
It is possible to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanism to see if it helps. However, it is best to contact an expert to make sure that it is properly fixed.
Broken Panes
Chips and cracks on your window can be a hassle, but they do not have to be permanent. With a little patience and a few tools you probably already have in your home, you can repair damaged windows.
It's better to leave the work to a professional when your window has a large crack or is in an old wooden frame. If your window has a double-paned design, it could be difficult to find a replacement that is exactly the same size.
To replace a window the first step is to remove the pane that is currently in use from the sash. Tape the sash with an overlapping duct tape to prevent glass shards from falling out when you work, and wear safety goggles. Tap the sash using an abrasive tool with a soft tip or hammer to loosen the putty. If the window has wooden moldings to hold the pane in place it is possible to carefully pull these pieces off with an abrasive bar if it is framed in wood.
After the old pane has been removed and cleaned, you can prepare it for the new one. Clean any remnants of sash or putty and use a wire brush to smooth the grooved channel which the window fits. Apply a little warmth using a heating gun to melt the old putty and make it easier to scrape off and get rid of.
Measure the width and length of the opening in the sash and subtract 1/16 inch from each measurement. This will ensure that your replacement pane is slightly larger than the opening, so that it can expand and contract with temperature changes. Roll a rope of glazier's compound putty around the perimeter of the new pane, then press it firmly into the grooved channels in the frame. Put a glazier's point into every corner of the new pane. It should be placed at about 6 inches intervals along the frame.
A damaged double or triple paned windows can let hot or cold air to escape, which will make your HVAC system work harder to maintain an indoor temperature that is comfortable. These windows are also insulated by gas fills, so if you compromise them the home won't be as well-insulated.
Draughts
Double glazing is designed to be strong, secure and hard-wearing, but it can still have issues as a result of normal wear and tear. One of the most frequently encountered problems is draughts. These can be extremely frustrating and costly to address. Draughts can occur when there is a gap between the window frame and the wall, or the window sash and the frame. This gap allows cold air to enter your home and warm air escape, which results in higher energy bills.
There are a myriad of ways to repair drafty windows. One option is by using temporary caulking, or mortite. These products can be purchased in tubes or rolls and then sprayed on the gaps. Then, they can be painted to match the existing window. This makes them virtually invisible. You can also purchase a kit to close the gaps around the window. This kit usually includes sheets of plastic that are attached to the window with tape and then heat using a hairdryer.
You can also fix drafts by changing the locks on your windows or enhancing the hinges of your uPVC windows. Slide a piece of card between the frame of your sash and the hinges to see if they are damaged. If you're able to move the card easily the hinges on your window may require replacement.
If you have a tilt-and turn or casement window, you can purchase foam, metal or plastic draught proofing strips to fit around the inside of the frame to close the gap. Some of these strips have an adhesive backing that is self-adhesive, while others need to be secured with pins. For sash windows, you can get brush strips like those used on front doors, and can be inserted into the gap to block out drafts.
It is essential to have your double glazed windows repaired by a professional immediately you spot any problems, as the inability to attend to them can result in more damage and a decrease in effectiveness. Using the search function on this website will assist you in finding a local tradesperson who can handle double-glazed window repairs quickly and effectively. Our traders have all been screened and checked so you can be sure that you will receive a double glazed windows repair quality service.
Smudging
Installing double-glazed windows in your home or office can help keep cold air out in winter and the hot air out during summer. They also create a fantastic soundproof barrier that helps block out noise from the outside world. Like all products however, they will get older and need some maintenance. It's important to know that double-glazed windows can be repaired instead of being replaced.
Repairing the sash cords which support the weights used for opening and closing your double-glazed window, is one of the most frequent repairs. The cost of repairing damaged sash cords will vary depending on the size and the complexity of your window. You can expect to spend about $200 on this repair.
Fogging is often caused by the accumulation of moisture between the window panes. To solve this issue technicians will usually require drilling into the window, apply chemicals to eliminate the moisture and then remove the fog from the window. This process costs about $150 on average, and can cost more when the frame of the window is getting rotten.
Defrosting double-glazed windows from the inside is another method to repair the problem. This is a cheaper option than replacing IGUs but it will not restore the R-value to the original level.
Smudging is a practice that has been used by many cultures to cleanse areas of negative energy and encourage positive energy. Using a smudge stick with some herbs or sage can help get rid of pollen, germs and mold spores. This can help improve allergies and asthma symptoms for those affected by them. It can also help get rid of lingering odors and energy from objects such as antiques and new furniture. It is recommended that you smudge your house four times a year and every time you feel negative energies are hanging on or within the space.
Replacement
Double-glazed windows, also known as sealed units, as they are sometimes referred to are prone to wear over time. This is particularly true of the airtight seals that keep Argon gas at a safe temperature and prevents condensation. In this case, it may be necessary for the unit to be replaced. It is not as hard as it appears. A skilled DIYer can install a high-quality unit in a very short time.
The first step is to remove any molding that is around the window frame and pry away any glazing points that are holding the existing unit in place, using a putty knife or utility knife. Once the glazing points have been removed, the installer can cut and slice the sealant that holds in the unit. This is usually performed using a bladed instrument like a jigsaw or knife. After the old IGU has been removed the new glass can be inserted and the gap sealed with silicone sealant.
After the silicone has been applied to the gaps a small amount of paint is used to cover any exposed areas of silicone, leaving the new windows looking like new again. Any handles that have been installed are now attached to the frame and a final check is made to make sure everything is in order before the FENSA registered installer leaves your home.
In addition to repairing double glazed windows, our glaziers can also install replacement windows for those that would like to upgrade their home with the most up-to-date energy saving advances such as argon gas-filled glass and thermal spacer bars. These upgrades can cut down on your heating bills and ensure your home is at an ideal temperature all year long.
If your double-glazed windows are showing signs of wear, you should consider contact us immediately to arrange for a repair or a replacement. This will not only improve the appearance of your home, but it could also help to increase the resale value when you come to sell your property.