Double Glazed Door Repairs
Double-glazed doors and windows keep heat out, draughts out in, and noise out, minimising the disturbance from dogs barking or traffic on nearby roads. They also serve as a security measure against burglars since they are tough to break.
However, just like other home improvement products they are susceptible to issues from time to time. This article will address some of the most common problems and solutions.
Broken panes
A rogue pebble from the lawn mower a drink set down too heavy on your glass-topped coffee table or the sudden weight of snow can all shatter window panes. This can expose your home to the elements, and is an unattractive sight to see. Double pane windows can be repaired by replacing the damaged glass and restoring their frames. A reputable window company can provide replacement glass panes, but repair is relatively simple to fix yourself if you have some experience with wood-frame windows and some basic tools.
The first step to fix windows that have been damaged is to remove the old glass and glazing points from the frame. Doing this requires some care as the old glass is often brittle and hard. Wear gloves and a face mask to shield yourself from flying pieces of glass. Make use of a putty knife to scrape the old glaze compound from the recesses and the glazing points.
After the old glass has been removed, take measurements of the opening to fit the new window pane. The pane should be slightly smaller than the size of the rabbet grooves in order to give the window room to expand and contract with weather changes. Hardware stores can cut panes precisely to the needed dimensions.
After the new pane is placed, roll a piece of glaziers' glue around the frame's perimeter and into the glass-frame joint. If the putty is difficult to work, use a knife to dip it in linseed oil and use it to soften it. Then smooth the compound into place to make a neat and even joint.
When the putty has dried paint it over with a quality exterior house paint and allow it to cure completely. If you don't have any exterior paint, you may also restore the finish of your putty by using wood varnish. Make sure to remove any varnish that is on the glass prior to re-glazing it. This will stop the putty from sticking to the glass and leaving a water stain that could cause permanent damage.
Misted panes
Double glazing can help your home look clean and modern. If you have double glazing that has mist or condensation between panes, it's not just unsightly, but could make your home feel uncomfortable and cold.
Double glazed windows are made by securing two panes of glass together and filling the space with gas or air (such as xenon or argon) to create an insulation barrier that keeps heat in and cold out. Unfortunately, this seal may be damaged over time due to a variety of reasons. These include aging environmental factors, such as high humidity levels and temperature fluctuations and problems with the installation.
It is essential to address the problem as soon as it occurs. Leaving it untreated can result in further damage and lower the energy efficiency of your home.
It is good to know that repairing your double glazing is simple. You can use a desiccant pack to absorb moisture and re-instate the air seal, or drill holes into the window and clean the area with rubbing alcohol. This technique requires certain amount of DIY skills and is not recommended to people who do not feel at ease drilling into double pane windows.
A towel that has been soaked in vinegar can also be placed between the window panes. This will help absorb the moisture and stop future condensation build-up. After the towel is filled with water, allow it to sit for a few hours. Then rinse the window with water to eliminate the vinegar residue.
There are kits that will allow you to repair double-glazed windows without drilling holes. The glass is cleared from the outside by using dry pellets that disintegrate as time passes. These kits are typically affordable and can be very effective at eliminating condensation and restoring double-glazed windows to their former glory. It is important to keep in mind that this method is only effective for a brief period of time and could have to be repeated depending on the amount moisture in the air between your windows.
Sagging panes
Over time, windows may begin to shrink if they are not properly anchored or secured. A window that is sliding is not just unsightly, but also means the seals have failed, reducing the efficiency of the frame and glass. Visible condensation is the main sign of a failed sealant and is a signal that it's the right time to have the windows replaced. The space between the panes of double-paned windows is usually filled with silica gel, which has the capacity of absorbing water vapour to prevent condensation. This is the primary reason why double-paned windows are more energy efficient than single-paned ones.
Install L-brackets on the bottom of your frame to fix windows that are sagging. double glazing repair Stratford will stop the sash from sagging beneath the lower hinge shoe. Double-glazing firms can do this and it is a relatively cheap way to repair windows that have sagged.
Broken seals
The window seals found in modern double glazed windows play a crucial part in keeping your home energy efficient and draught-free. However, they could be damaged or destroyed due to wear and tear, as well as extreme weather conditions. If a uPVC window seal breaks it will allow cold air to enter your home during winter, and hot air to escape during summer, which will result in a rise in your cooling and heating bills.
There are a few signs that you might have broken window seals, such as unprovoked drafts coming through the window frame and fogging of the glass. This is a clear indicator that the seals have been damaged and the gas (usually argon or krypton) which was vacuum sealed between the two panes has leaked out and allowed moisture to enter the window. Unattended moisture can lead to dampness and mold which can be detrimental to your family's health as well as comfort.
A damaged window seal is also evident by the presence of condensation on the glass, either inside or on the outside. Modern double-paned windows sealed by an inert gas may have this problem. It occurs when the temperatures of the glass and the air are at odds. If your windows are insulating the property and providing a comfortable living space it is likely that the seals have been broken or blown away, but that they are simply old and in need of replacement.
Finally, you must ensure whether your window frame and the area surrounding the glazing is free from cracks, chips, and discoloration. These signs of wear and tear could suggest that the frame is shifting around the glass panes and could cause the seal to break. It is recommended to have your windows resealed by an expert at least every year to ensure that they are working correctly.
There are a myriad of ways to seal your windows. The most effective method is dependent on the damage and condition of your windows. To ensure you're using the right materials and techniques, it is best to consult a professional before attempting any DIY project for your windows.