Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an investment that is worth it, but can be it can be frustrating when it doesn't work. Luckily, the majority of issues are fixable and you do not need to replace your windows or doors.
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes that are separated by a thin gap. The gap is filled with an insulating gas, such as the gas argon. This improves the efficiency of a window's heating.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are harder to break than single panes of glass, but they can still shatter or break. If a pane breaks in your double-glazed windows, it's essential to fix it as soon as possible to prevent moisture and energy losses.
You can opt for an immediate repair or a more intensive epoxy fix depending on the degree of the crack. A temporary repair can keep cracks from spreading and keep out cold and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack, and will provide an even stronger seal.
To replace a double-pane broken window, remove the frame and place it on a flat surface. Then, place a grid of duct tape on the pane to keep glass pieces from falling off during removal. Once the tape is secured then pull the old double pane glass from the frame. Then, use a wirebrush to clean the rabbets and grooves. You can also vacuum them or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. If needed, take off the wood molding and scrape off all putty or metal points before putting in the new pane. Apply a silicone caulk to the grooves and rabbet to ensure an ideal fit.
If you're trying to repair a damaged glass by yourself, begin by sanding it until it's smooth and free of paint. You can also use a heating gun to soften any glazing or putty points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned then you can use a blade for a putty to press the rope into position. Make sure that the putty has a uniform thickness, and that it presses evenly against the glass frame.
If you are looking for an option that lasts for a long time then you could opt for an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This requires more work and a longer wait time but it's more attractive and will last longer than a temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most frequently encountered double-glazed window problems, but it doesn't mean that your windows aren't working properly. It's good to know that your windows are showing signs of condensation. This indicates that the double glazing is functioning just as it is supposed to, keeping out the cold while allowing the heat.
It's actually water vapour from your home which condenses on the surface of your glass when you observe condensation. It's a natural process that won't cause harm to your windows, except if you let it sit on the glass for long enough.
The cause of internal condensation is usually too much humidity or low temperatures in the room. This causes cold surfaces, such as windows and doors, to attract moisture that is high dewpoint (the temperature where water turns into a liquid). The humidity is also a common occurrence in kitchens and bathrooms because of steam from showers or kettles and hot pans and pots that are used for cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothes close to windows and ensure that your uPVC frames are ventilated to avoid moisture buildup. To maximize energy efficiency, you must be sure that double-glazed windows are properly installed and insulated with the correct gap (6mm). You could also consider adding one-way air vents to your windows to further improve insulation. If you still get condensation, there's an issue with your gaskets or seals. This is a task best left to professionals.
Draughts
A window that is drafty is a sign that the seal between the glass panes of your double-glazing has sprung a leak, and is likely to require replacement. This can affect the insulation of your home and could result in an increase in your energy bills and therefore it is important to act as soon as you notice this problem.
Window repair services will replace your sealed unit, restoring the efficiency to your windows. They can also modify your existing frames to incorporate new energy saving features, like gas-filled argon glass units that have thermal spacer bars, which will cut down on heat loss and lower the cost of heating.
Draughts can also be caused by issues with the locking mechanisms of double glazed windows, so it's worth getting the windows checked. Older uPVC window locks are notorious for becoming stiff with time however, it's simple to fix this by regular lubrication using a specialist uPVC cleaning product.
A professional double glazing business will ensure that the repair is completed correctly. They'll have all the tools required to ensure that your window is watertight and fully sealed. They can also repair any damage to the frame so you can take advantage of your new double glazing.
Double-glazed windows last a long time and durable, but they may experience issues due to wear and tear or weather. If you find any of these issues make contact with your local double glazing repair service immediately to fix them as soon as you can. You'll be thankful you did - a well-repaired double glazing installation will give your house that tangible sense of quality, and will also help you save money on your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows consist of two separate panes, with an air spacer or dense gas between them to make an effective seal that blocks heating from entering the frame. They're an excellent choice to save energy and reduce the carbon footprint. However, double-glazed windows can have a range of issues that can affect its performance and endurance. This includes condensation, mist, and being difficult to open or close.
Inability to open your double-glazed windows could be caused by the weather or it could be due to a problem with the hinges or handles, or the mechanism. You can solve the issue by lubricating and wiping down the windows with cold water. Contact the company who sold you windows as soon as you can to fix them.
If repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk or windows have dropped or sagged over time, this is another frequent issue that can be fixed by a trained professional. It is always worth checking your warranty to determine if there are any repairs covered.
Fogged or foggy glass is caused by moisture in the panes. It's usually a sign that the seals aren't functioning properly or your double-glazing unit needs to be replaced. It's a fairly simple fix and you can often get it done without having to replace the entire window, which can save you money.
To correct this issue, a technician will make tiny holes to vent out any moisture that is trapped between the glass panes and other parts of the window. After the moisture has been removed, a new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Sometimes, the window will need to be removed prior to this can be accomplished, but the majority of the time, it can be carried out within the home.
Mist
Double glazing that has been in use for a long time may be prone to mist in particular when it occurs both within and outside the window. This is due to a malfunction of the seal that is designed to block air and moisture between the two panes. In the production of double-glazed units the seal is made by sealing both panes with an airtight butyl or polysulphide seal around the edges of the glass as well as a spacer bars. This seal is designed to stop the window from leaking, and also provide insulation. It isn't easy to clean windows with mist because you have to break the seal to do this.
The issue with mist is that it lets moisture to get in, which then results in condensation between the panes of glass. The reason for this is because there is a significant difference in temperature between the interior and exterior glass surfaces. The moisture gets trapped within the gaps, resulting in a milky appearance. It can be very unsightly and can be a pain to get rid of.
Some firms claim to be able to fix misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes in the unit and injecting chemical through the holes, which absorbs moisture from the inside. However, this is not a permanent solution to the issue and it's much easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit in the event that you are suffering from misting.
It is recommended to keep your windows clean and ventilated regularly. It is also a good idea to use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens and clean windows with a damp cloth to prevent the build-up of moisture. If you're unable to eliminate the problem completely We recommend replacing your double-glazed units with A-rated ones to improve the efficiency of energy.