A Retrospective: How People Talked About Double Glazing Window Repairs 20 Years Ago

Double Glazing Window Repairs Many homeowners experience nagging double glazing issues like broken handles or locks, condensation between the panes, and draughts. Most of these problems can be resolved without the need to replace windows. Double glazing that is misted usually indicates the glass that is sealed needs replacing, but this is usually cheaper than replacing the entire window frame. Broken Glass Modern double-paned windows can be easily broken by a pebble from mowers, or by blowing branches. Usually, just one pane is broken however, the entire window could need to be replaced dependent on the type of glass and whether it has special coatings or insulation. Repairing broken glass is an easy process, but you will have purchase an IGU (insulated glass unit) from your local glass repair shop to achieve the most effective results. Wear protective gloves and wear a mask when handling broken glass. It is important to protect yourself from serious injuries that can result from the fragments that break. Most often, the broken piece is fixed by putty or glaze, which must be removed before the new pane is placed. You can use a utility knife, however an hammer or chisel might be required to remove the old putty. Cover the area with a towel to catch any shards of glass that may fall. Use a heat gun before trying to take off the old caulk, if it is still in place. Then cut through the caulk with your knife. If the frames come with wood stops that keep the panes in the frame in a straight line it is necessary to use a pliers with a long nose or a hammer to remove the stop. After the old glass has been removed and the frame has been emptied then clean it using a damp rag. Then you can measure the frame's opening to determine how wide and tall the new glass will need to be. You'll also need to purchase a new glass point set and a roll of double-face glazing tape. A glazier's knife or a putty knife should be used to create the new putty, which has to be thicker than usual due to the extra thickness of the glass. Add Linseed oil to the putty periodically to keep it soft and easy to work with. Once the new putty has been rolled, press it against the frame and glass using your thumb. After the epoxy has cured, use a rag soaked in acetone to clean the edges of the glass and frame. This will eliminate any epoxy that is raised above the edge. Condensation Between the Panes Double glazing is typically plagued by condensation between panes of windows. It can cause windows to look milky or foggy and can also lead to mildew and mould growth around frames, sills and sealant. If not treated, it could cause the frame and sash to deteriorate, reducing the energy efficiency. If condensation becomes an ailment, issue, it must be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to improve the appearance of your windows. Condensation can form in the outside or inside of a double-glazed unit. However, it's most likely to occur between the glass panes because that's the place where insulation is located. Condensation in the interior is typically a sign that the air in your home is humid. It's simple to fix this issue by dehumidifying. However condensation on the exterior of your window is a greater cause for concern and it's often caused by a leaky seal. Contact the company who installed your double-glazed windows if they find condensation on the glass panes. They can inspect for signs of failure and damage on the seals and units, and may be able perform an resealing procedure in order to restore the thermal efficiency of your windows. You should also ensure that your windows are cleaned regularly to avoid condensation issues. You can make use of a product for cleaning specifically designed for double glazed windows or you can ask a professional to clean your windows for you. It is possible that the seal on your double-glazed windows has failed when you see condensation on the panes. The seals are constructed of silica gel, a material which has an enormous surface area and it can effectively absorb water vapor. As the seal wears down it allows moisture to enter the gaps between the panes of glass. This creates a layer that you will not be able to get rid of. Draughts A double-glazed window is made of two panes of glass separated by an air gap. This is done to improve efficiency in energy use and improve the sound insulation. If the seals break down the moisture could enter and cause condensation, leading to foggy windows. If this occurs it's usually a matter of replacing the entire glass unit. Another frequent issue is windows or doors that are difficult to open and close. This could be due to a slight warping in the frame or defective hinges and mechanisms. In certain cases, lubricating hinges or mechanisms can aid. If the issue persists you should get in contact with the company that you purchased your windows to see whether they offer repairs or replacements. It is possible to let heat escape from your home through doors and windows that are difficult to close and open. Draughts are also created. This is not only an unnecessary waste of money and time, but it can also be dangerous for you and your family. It leaves your home vulnerable to burglars who want to break in and means you're likely to be paying more than you need to on your heating bills. Draughts can cause problems for any kind of double-glazed window, however it's more prevalent in windows that are thinner and older and with windows that are installed improperly. Installers must be sure to install your windows correctly to achieve the best performance and value for money. Window seals must be able to expand and contract according to changes in temperature. It is a necessary part of the job, however, poor quality materials and workmanship can lead seal failures. A reliable supplier will provide you with better quality windows that will require less maintenance in the near future. Unless you've been hit by a projectile that landed on your double-glazing (which could occur) there aren't any reasons why they might suddenly crack or break. While changing weather conditions could be a factor however, it's more likely they're the result of a problem that is fairly simple and easily fixed. Weather Seals The weather seals on double glazed windows play a critical role in maintaining the airtight seal that helps your double glazing to be more energy efficient. If upvc window repairs are damaged or worn out, your windows will become less effective and you may notice a draft, condensation or fogging between panes of glass. At Mr Misty, we can repair and replace window seals quickly and efficiently to ensure your double glazing is in good working order for as long as possible. Fogging that occurs between double-glazed windows is caused by condensation or water that has got between the two panes of glass in an IGU (insulating glass unit). It is typically caused by rapid temperature changes, poor window sealant or collision. Untreated, the problem can result in a cracking of seals and leakage inert gases which will reduce the insulating properties of your window. This is one of the most frequent issues we encounter when it comes to double repair of glazing, and fortunately, it's an easy fix. Clean the glass and the frames using a damp cloth to remove any dirt or dust, and then use a dehumidifier dry the area thoroughly prior to sealing the window. You can also repair cracks in frames and sash by applying strong-hold tape. It is best to apply a tape that is sufficient in thickness to hold the crack in place but don't make it too thin or it could fall off. Use the packing tape or masking tape on both sides of the glass. For deeper cracks you may have to employ a stronger solution, such as expanding foam. If you notice a lot scratches on the frames of your windows, it may be time to seal. You might try a non-abrasive cleaning solution on the surface, however if you're dealing with more severe scratches, it could be better to engage an expert to repair your double glazing. Taking care of your double-glazing, and sealing it as necessary is the best method to ensure your investment is protected and keep your home toasty, warm, and cosy for as long as you own it. A certified technician is the quickest and most cost-effective method to deal with any issues that arise that arise with your double-glazing, and if you do this, you'll enjoy your warm, toasty and cozy home for years to be.