Double Glazed Window Repairs
If your double-glazed windows are prone to misting up, it could indicate that the seals are not working properly. This can impact the thermal performance of your house and should be repaired as soon as possible.
You can lubricate the handles, hinges and mechanism to check if it can help. It is best to let an expert fix it to ensure that it is done correctly.
Broken Panes
Be it a stray 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. Repairing a damaged pane by using the most basic tools you probably already have in your home.
It's better to leave the work to a professional when the window has a big crack or is located in an old wooden frame. If your window is double-paned, it could be difficult to find a replacement that's exactly the same size as the old one.
The first step to replace the window pane is to remove the old pane from the sash. Tape the sash to the wall using an overlapping the duct tape to keep glass shards falling out when you work, and put on safety glasses. Tap the sash using an abrasive tool with the soft tip or hammer to loosen the putty. If you have a wood-framed window with wooden moldings that hold the pane in place, carefully pry off these pieces with a straight pry bar.
Once the old window is gone, clean and prepare the space for a new pane. Make use of a wire bristle brush to smooth out the grooved channel in which the window is installed. Clean any sash or putty that remains. The old putty can be heated with the help of a heat gun to make it easier to get rid of.
Take measurements of the length and width of the opening in the sash and subtract 1/16 inch from each measurement. This will ensure that the new pane is slightly smaller than the opening so that it will expand and contract with changes in temperature. Roll a rope made of glazed putty around a new pane's perimeter, then press it into the grooved channels of the frame. Place a glazier's point in every corner of the new pane and at 6 inches or so intervals across the frame.
If a double- or triple-paned window is damaged, it will let cold or hot air to escape your home, and that can cause the HVAC system to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home at a comfortable level. The windows are also insulated by gas fills which means that if you damage them, your home will not be as well-insulated.
Draughts
Double glazing is made to ensure durability security, long-lasting performance and security however, it could have problems due to wear and tear. Draughts are a typical issue that can be both bothersome and expensive. Draughts are caused by the gap between windows and a wall or between the window sash frame. This gap allows for cold air to enter the home, while warm air to escape, which results in higher energy costs.
There are a variety of different methods to repair windows that are drafty, for example, mortite or caulking that is temporary. These products can be bought in tubes or on a roll and then sprayed on the gaps. They can then be painted to match your existing window. This makes them virtually invisible. Another option is to buy an draught-proofing kit. It typically includes a plastic sheet 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 the window locks or upgrading the hinges of your uPVC windows. Slide a card between the frame of your sash and the hinges to see if they are damaged. If you can move the card without difficulty the hinges on your window may need to be replaced.
You can purchase draught-proofing strips to fit around the frame of a tilt-and-turn or casement window. These are available in foam, metal or plastic. Some of these strips come with self-adhesive backings, while others need to be secured with pins. Brush strips are available for sash windows that can fit into the gap and block out draughts. These brush strips are similar to those found on front doors.
You should repair your double-glazed windows immediately in the event that you notice any issues. If left unattended they can cause more damage and decrease the efficiency. Searching on this website will allow you to find a local tradesperson who can carry out double-glazed window repairs quickly and effectively. All of our traders have been thoroughly screened and verified and you can be assured that you are receiving high-quality service.
Smudging
Installing double-glazed windows in your office or home will help keep cold air out during winter and the hot air out in summer. They also create a fantastic soundproof barrier, helping to block out sound from the outside world. As with all products however, they'll wear out over time and will require some attention. The good news is that a double-glazed window is typically repaired, rather than replacing it.
Fixing the sash cables, which are the ones that hold the weights for opening and closing your double-glazed windows, is one of the most frequently requested repairs. The cost to repair damaged sash cables will differ based on your window's size and complexity. You can expect to pay about $200 on this service.
Moisture that is trapped between windows' panes is the most common cause of fogging. To resolve this issue the technician will typically need to drill a hole in the window, use chemicals to eliminate the moisture, and then remove the fog from the window. This process costs around $150 on average and can be more than doubled if the frame is rotting.
The removal of double-glazed windows' frogging from the inside is another method to fix them. This is a cheaper option than replacing IGUs but will not restore the R-value to the original value.
Smudging is a practice across many cultures to purify places of negative energy and encourage positive energy. Utilizing a smudge stick containing the herb sage or other can help to eliminate germs, pollen and mold spores. This can help improve asthma and allergy symptoms for those who are affected by them. It can also be used to cleanse objects, like antique furniture or new pieces, of any lingering smells or energies that could have been introduced into the area by previous owners. It is recommended to smudge your home four times a year and at any time you feel negative energies are hanging on or within the space.
Replacement
Double glazed windows, or sealed units, as they are sometimes called, can wear out over time. This is especially true of the airtight seal that keeps Argon gas at a safe temperature and stops condensation. In this case, it may be necessary to replace the unit. It's not as difficult as it appears. A skilled DIYer can put in a top-quality unit in a short amount of time.
Using an utility knife or putty blade, cut off any glazing points that are holding the current unit. After all the glazing points are removed, the installer can cut and slice through the sealant which holds the unit in the frame, usually with an instrument that is bladed, like double glazed window repairs an jigsaw or a knife. Once 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, a small amount paint can be applied to any silicone exposed to make the replacement windows appear as new. Reattaching handles to the frame is the next step. A final check is conducted to ensure that everything is in place before the FENSA authorized contractor leaves your home.
Our glaziers are also capable of installing replacement windows to make your house more modern. These windows are filled with argon gas and have thermal spacer bars. These upgrades can lower the cost of heating and help keep your home at a perfect temperature throughout the year.
If your double-glazed windows show signs of wear, you should consider contact us as soon as you can to request a repair or a replacement. Not only will this enhance the appearance of your home, but it could aid in increasing the resale value if you come to sell your property.