Double Glazed Window Repairs
If your double-glazed windows are leaking, it may indicate an issue with the seals between the glass panes. This could impact the thermal efficiency of your home and should be fixed in the earliest time possible.
You can grease the hinges, handles and mechanism to test if it helps. It is best to have an expert fix it to ensure it's done properly.
Broken Panes
Be it a stray pebble from the lawnmower or your favorite vase tossed over by your curious cat, cracks and chips in your window are a source of frustration, but they don't have to be permanent. With a little patience and a few basic tools you likely already have in your home, you can repair the damaged window.
If your break is fairly large or your window is located in an older frame, it's better to leave the job to professionals. If your window is double-paned it may be hard to find a replacement that is exactly the same size.
When replacing a window, the first step is to take the existing pane from the sash. Wear safety glasses and tape the window sash in a cross-hatch style using duct tape. This will stop glass shards falling out while you work. Tap the sash using a soft-tipped paint scraper or hammer to loosen the glazing and putty points. If your window has wooden mouldings to hold the pane in place it is possible to carefully pull these pieces off with an abrasive bar if it is framed with wood.
Once the old pane has been removed and cleaned, you can prepare it for the new one. Clean any remnants of sash or putty and then use a wire brush to smooth the grooved channel in which the window fits. Apply a small amount of heat using a heat gun to melt the old putty and make it easier to scrape off and remove.
Measure the width and length of the sash opening 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 as needed in temperature. Roll a rope of glazed putty around a new pane's perimeter, then press it into the grooved channels of the frame. Install a glazier's pointed in every corner of the new pane, and at 6 inches or so intervals across the frame.
A damaged double or triple paned window could allow cold or hot air to escape, which will cause your HVAC system work harder to keep your indoor temperature that is comfortable. They are also insulated by the gas fills which means that if you damage them your home won't be as well-insulated.
Draughts
Double glazing is designed to be strong secure, strong and long-lasting, but it can still develop issues as the result of normal wear and tear. One of the most frequently encountered problems is draughts. These can be extremely frustrating and costly to fix. Draughts are caused by gaps between a window frame and a wall, or between the window sash frame and the wall. This gap allows cold air to enter your home and warm air escape, which results in more energy costs.
There are a variety of ways to fix windows that are drafty. One method is using mortite, or temporary caulking. These products can be bought in tubes or in rolls and then sprayed on the gaps. They can then be painted to match the window, making them virtually unnoticeable. Another option is to buy a draught-proofing kit, which usually includes plastic sheeting that you affix to the window using tape, and then heat with a hairdryer, sealing the gaps to keep cold air out.
You can also eliminate drafts by changing your window locks or improving the hinges of your uPVC windows. To determine if the window hinges are damaged, try sliding a piece of card between the frame and sash. If you can move the card without difficulty, then this is a sign that your hinges on your window have to be replaced.
You can purchase draught-proofing strips to fit around the frame of a tilt-and turn or casement window. They are available in foam, metal or plastic. Some of these strips come with self-adhesive backings and others require to be secured by pins. For windows that are sash you can buy brush strips similar to those found on front doors, which fit inside the gap to block out draughts.
It is essential to have your double glazed windows repaired by a professional as soon as you notice any issues, as double glazed repair leaving them unattended could result in further damage and lower effectiveness. You can locate a local tradesman who can perform repairs to double-glazed windows by using the search function on this website. Our traders have all been thoroughly screened and verified to ensure that you will receive a high-quality service.
Smudging
Installing double-glazed windows in your home or office will help keep the cold air out in winter and the hot air out in summer. They also provide a fantastic soundproofing barrier that can help block out outside noise. As with all products, however, they will wear out over time and need some maintenance. It's good to be aware that double-glazed windows can be repaired rather than replaced.
Fixing the sash cables, which are the ones that hold the weights to open and close your double-glazed windows, is one of the most frequent repairs. Repairing damaged sash cords will vary depending on the size and the complexity of your window. On an average, you will need to pay about $200 for this service.
Moisture trapped between a window's panes is a typical cause of fogging. A technician must drill a small hole into the glass, and then use an acid solution to eliminate the water. This procedure costs about $150, but it can be more than doubled if your frame is rotting.
Defrosting double-glazed windows from the inside is another way to repair the problem. This is a cheaper option than replacing the IGUs, but it will not return the R-value of windows back to their original levels.
Smudging is a practice for many cultures to cleanse areas of negative energy and encourage positive energy. Smudging a stick with some herbs or sage can help get rid of pollen, mold and germs. spores, which will increase the severity of asthma and allergies for those who are affected by them. It can also help remove lingering smells and energy from objects such as antiques and new furniture. You should smudge the home at least four times a year and every time you notice negative energy to be lurking around.
Replacement
Double-glazed windows, or sealed units, as they are sometimes referred to, can wear out over time. This is particularly in the case of the airtight seal that keeps Argon gas inside and stops condensation. In this situation it is possible to replace the unit. Fortunately, replacing it isn't as difficult as it might initially appear. A skilled DIYer equipped with the right tools can carry out a high quality installation in a short space of time.
With an utility knife or putty blade remove any glazing points holding the current unit. After all the glazing points are removed the installer can then cut and slice through the sealant that holds the unit within the frame, usually using a bladed tool such as an jigsaw or a knife. After the old IGU is removed, the glass can be put in and the gap closed using silicone sealant.
After the silicone has been sprayed after which a small amount of paint can be used on any silicone exposed to make the replacement windows look like new. Attaching handles to the frame is the next step. A final check is made to ensure everything is in order before the FENSA authorized contractor leaves your property.
As well as repairing double-glazed windows, our glaziers can also install replacement windows for those who wish to upgrade their current property with the latest advancements in energy efficiency like argon gas filled glass and thermal spacer bars. These advances can help to significantly reduce heating bills in winter, and also keep your home at a comfortable temperature all year round.
If your double-glazed windows are showing signs of wear, it's worth calling us promptly to arrange for repairs or replacement. This will not only enhance the appearance of your house but could also increase the value if you decide to sell it.