double glazing Sittingbourne glazing consists of two panes in the frame or openings in the wall. This window glazing can be damaged and require repairs.
If you've noticed condensation between the windows or a noticeable draught, or hinges and handles are becoming difficult to open or close, these are all indications that your double-glazed unit needs to be fixed. This repair usually involves a reseal of the entire unit.
Broken Panes
Double glazed windows consist of two glass panes that have an air gap that is filled with inert gases, such as Krypton or argon. This helps keep the heat in your home while preventing cold drafts and moisture from entering. Sometimes the windows may become damaged, and the whole window may require replacement. It is essential to call the company that sold you double glazing immediately in the event that you spot cracks or chips in the window.
A few simple steps can be used to fix a damaged window, however it is not recommended you attempt the repairs yourself unless you are an experienced DIYer. First, you will need to put on some gloves and remove the damaged pane. If it's cracked, press strips of masking tape over the cracks in a crisscross pattern. This will prevent the cracks from becoming worse over time, particularly in the winter. You should also protect your work area with newspapers to prevent any broken pieces from falling. After the broken pane is removed using a putty knife, you can use it to scrape away any glazing putty and the glazed window seal. Remove the glazing points with pliers. Finally, paint the bare wood with a fast-drying primer.
If you're able to purchase a new replacement pane, measure the length and width of the channel using a tape measure. Subtract 1/8'' from both measurements to allow for a slight movement of the new pane. Then, roll a short rope of glazing compound into the channels with grooves and then slide the glass into the grooves. Tap the glass gently using a hammer every 6" or 8" to aid in setting it in place. Be careful not to break it.
It is worthwhile to use your double glazing warranty to save the cost of a complete replacement window. In general, the warranty will cover the cost of the parts and labor. It is important to check the specifics of your warranty as it will vary from one company to the next and you must know what is covered and when.
Foggy Glass
Condensation between the panes of your double glazing can result in foggy glass. This can be due to a number of things, such as temperature fluctuations, incorrectly installed frames, or even the deteriorating seals.
The good news is that in the majority of instances, this can be repaired easily by a professional double glazing installer. It is important to contact the company that installed your windows when you discover a problem, and always follow this up in writing. It is easier to reach out to the company if you have to later. This is especially helpful when your warranty or guarantee covers the problem.
It is possible to fix the problem by replacing the gasket seals. This won't require you to replace your entire window unit and will make your home efficient in terms of energy use. To do this the window glazier needs to remove any retaining clips or strips that are holding the IGU in place, and then cut through the sealant with a saw.
Then they'll construct or purchase a replacement IGU to fit the frame, and use specific sealants to ensure that it is air- and water-tight. After they're done, they'll reinstall the clips or strips that hold it and then apply sealant to make sure it's secure.
If you are lucky, the misting will stop. It is essential that your frames are properly ventilated to prevent the build-up of moisture within your ceilings or walls.
Another frequent issue that double glazing owners have reported is that their doors or windows become difficult to open and close It could be due to extreme weather conditions, or it could be that the frame has dropped or sagged over time, and isn't in line with the rest of your home. If this is the case, you can try wiping the frames with cold water in order to shrink them a little - but it's unlikely to resolve the issue completely. If you're still unable to solve the problem, you may require the help of an expert to replace them.
Condensation
Condensation happens when the insulating gas in double glazing windows fails to hold its place, leaving air and moisture between the panes. It is more common during winter, when humidity levels are higher. However, it can also happen at other times. A build-up of moisture can lead to mould and mildew around sills, sealants and window frames which are not only ugly but also hazardous to your health. The good part is that condensation can frequently be resealed by a window expert to reduce the amount of moisture in your home and stop the build-up of moisture.
Window gaskets are an essential element of any double-glazed windows or door. Gaskets are used to seal the air-tight space between the window glass to prevent drafts or moisture and heat from entering or leaving your home. These gaskets may shrink or disappear over time due to changes in temperature, weather conditions, and ageing. You might notice condensation on your double-glazed doors or windows.
It is possible to repair this however it would involve replacing the'sandwich' (thermo-pane and glass) of your double glazing window with a replacement that is exactly. If you don't have the proper tools it is recommended you have a professional re-seal your double-glazed windows.
The mist that forms between your double-glazed windows is another common problem that can be a challenge to fix. This is an indication that the vacuum seal in the factory has failed, and there is no way to let air in or out of the sandwich.
A professional will reseal the windows using the same process as they would for fog or condensation issues. This typically involves removing the sandwich and then spraying the cleaning solution on it, followed by sucking out the old sealing agent. It is crucial to measure the'sandwich,' both in terms of length, width and thickening. This will ensure that the replacement fits perfectly and that a new seal can be drawn.
This can be a tricky job and requires specialised tools that aren't typically available in DIY stores. It's best left to professionals since faulty seals can result in mold and dampness within your home, which can be both expensive and dangerous to your health.
Water Leaks
If you notice that water is leaking around your double glazing windows, you must act fast. If you don't take action quickly even the tiniest leak could turn into a major problem.
The window frame could be the cause. Make sure that the sill pan (the flat bottom portion of the frame) is pitched to drain water away from your home, and not into the frame itself. If the sill pan isn't pitched correctly or if you can see moisture in the wood, you should contact a double glazing repair company to get professional assistance.
Another reason for water leaks is damaged window seals. This could be due to weather, age, or damage. This isn't an easy thing to fix and is usually best left to the experts.
A broken window seal can let air through the windows, making it less efficient in energy use. This also allows cold air to enter your home in the winter, and hot air to escape during summer. This can lead to high heating and cooling costs.
The simplest method to fix this is to apply a new layer of caulking. Although people who have DIY skills are able to do this on their own, it is usually easier to have a double glazing specialist handle the task. You will have peace of mind and an assurance that the work has been done correctly.
Double-glazing windows are available with warranties of up to 20 years. It is recommended to check with the company that supplied you with your windows to find out what warranty they offer and how long it lasts. You can save the cost of replacing double-glazed windows in the future. If you have an insurance policy on your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to report any issues as quickly as possible. You can do this online or by calling them directly. This information will be useful in the event that you have to utilize the warranty.