Double Glazed Window Repairs
If your double-glazed windows start to fog up it could indicate that the seals are damaged. This will impact the thermal performance of your house and needs to be fixed as soon as you can.
If your double-glazed window is difficult to open or has a sagging appearance, you can try lubricating your mechanism, hinges and handles to see if this aids. However, it is best to contact an expert to make sure it is fixed properly.
Broken Panes
Whether it's a pebble from the lawnmowers or a vase tossed over by your cat's curious eyes cracks and chips on the window pane can be frustrating but they don't have to be permanent. With a bit of patience and some basic tools that you may already have at home, you can fix the damaged window.
It's best to leave the task up to a professional if your window has a large crack or is in an old wood frame. If your window is double-paned it might be difficult to find a new one that is the exact size.
The first step in replacing windows is to remove the old pane from the sash. Wear safety goggles and tape the window sash in a cross-hatch style with duct tape. This will stop glass shards from falling off while you work. Tap the sash with an abrasive tool with an elongated tip or hammer in order to loosen up the putty. If the window has wooden moldings that hold the pane in place and you want to remove them, you can gently pry these pieces off with the flat end of a prybar if the window is framed with wood.
After the old pane has been removed, clean the area and prepare it for the new one. Use a wire bristle brush to smooth out the grooved channel where the window is installed. Clean any remaining sash or putty. Apply a bit of heat with a heat gun to melt the old putty, making it easier to scrape off and remove.
Measure the width and length of the opening in the sash and subtract 1/16 inch from each measurement. This will ensure that the replacement pane is slightly smaller than the opening, so that it can expand and contract with changes in temperature. Roll a rope of glazier's 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, and at 6 inches or so intervals along the frame.
If a double- or triple-paned windows is damaged it can allow hot or cold air to escape from your home, which can cause the HVAC system to struggle to maintain the temperature of your home at a comfortable level. The windows are also insulated with gas fills which means that if you damage them, your home will not be as well-insulated.
Draughts
Double glazing is designed for durability, security and long-lasting performance however, it could be prone to issues due to wear and tear. One of the most common problems is draughts. These can be very frustrating and costly to fix. Draughts result from gaps between windows and a wall or between the windowsash frame. This gap allows for cold air to enter the house and warm air to escape, which results in higher energy bills.
There are a variety of different methods to repair draughty windows, including mortite or temporary caulking. These products can be bought in tubes or in rolls and are applied to the gaps. They can then be painted to match the window you have. This makes them virtually invisible. You can purchase a kit to seal the gaps around the window. The kits typically include sheets of plastic that you stick to the window with tape and then heat with a hairdryer.
You can also fix draughts with a new window lock or by enhancing the hinges of your uPVC Windows. To check if your window hinges are damaged test sliding a small piece of card between the frame and the sash. If you can move the card without difficulty then it's an indication that your hinges on your window need to be replaced.
If you have a casement or tilt-and-turn window, you can purchase foam, metal or plastic draught proofing strips that can be fitted around the frame's interior to close the gap. Some of these strips have a self adhesive backing however others must be secured with pins. For windows with sash you can purchase brush strips similar to those used on front doors, that fit into the gap to block drafts.
It is recommended that you repair your double-glazed windows promptly when you spot any problems. If left untreated, they could cause further damage and reduce efficiency. You can find a local tradesman who can repair double-glazed windows by using the search function on this site. All of our contractors have been thoroughly screened and vetted so you can be assured that you are receiving high-quality service.
Smudging
Installing double-glazed windows in your home or office can help keep cold winter air out and the hot air out in summer. They are also a great soundproof barrier that helps block out outside noise. However, like all products, they can experience wear and tear over time and may require some maintenance at times. The good news is that a double-glazed window is usually repaired, rather than replaced.
Fixing the sash cords, which support the weights used for opening and closing your double-glazed window is among the most frequently requested repairs. Repairing damaged sash cords will vary depending on the size and complexity of your window. It is possible to spend an average of $200 on this service.
Fogging is usually caused by moisture trapped between the window panes. To solve this issue technicians will usually require drilling through the window, then apply an agent to eliminate the moisture and then defog the window. The process is priced at around $150, but could be more expensive in the event that the frame of the window is getting rotten.
The removal of double-glazed windows' frogging from the inside is another way to repair the problem. This is a cheaper option than replacing the IGUs, but it won't return the R-value of windows back to the original value.
Smudging is a practice that has been practiced by many cultures to rid areas of negative energy and promote positive energy. Smudging a stick with some herbs or sage can help to eliminate pollen, mold and germs. spores, which will improve allergies and asthma symptoms for those affected by them. It can also be used to cleanse objects, like antiques or new furniture pieces, of any remaining smells or energies that could have been introduced into the room by previous owners. You should smudge the home four times per year and at any time negative energies appear to be hanging around.
Replacement
Double-glazed windows, or sealed units as they are often referred to, can wear out over time. This is particularly relevant to the airtight seal that keeps Argon gas inside and stops condensation. In this case it is possible for the unit to be replaced. It is, however, not as difficult as it may initially appear. A skilled DIYer equipped with the right tools will be able to complete a top-quality installation in a short time.
Utilizing the utility knife or putty knife, cut off any glazing points that are holding the unit. After all the glazing points have been removed, the installer will be able to cut and slice through the sealant that holds the unit in the frame, usually with the help of a bladed tool, like a knife or jigsaw. After the old IGU is removed the new glass can be put into the frame and the gap sealed using silicone sealant.
After the silicone has been applied to the gaps, a small amount of paint can be used to cover any exposed areas of silicone, leaving the replacement windows looking like new again. The handles that have been fitted are now reattached to the frame and a final check is made to make sure everything is working as it should before the FENSA registered installer leaves your property.
In addition to repairing double glazed windows, our glaziers also install replacement windows for those that wish to upgrade their current property with the latest advancements in energy efficiency such as argon gas filled glass and thermal spacer bars. These improvements can reduce the cost of heating and keep your home at a comfortable temperature all year long.
If your double-glazed windows show signs of wear, you should consider contacting us as soon as you can to arrange for a repair or a replacement. Not only will this enhance the appearance of your home, but it could aid in increasing the value of your property when you come to sell your property.