Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can be an investment that is worth it, but can be frustrating when it doesn't perform. Luckily, most problems can be fixed and you don't have to replace your doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes separated by a very thin gap. The gap is then filled with an insulating gas, such as the gas argon. This improves the thermal efficiency of windows.
Broken panes
Double-pane windows are difficult to break than single pane glass, they can still break or shatter. When a pane becomes broken in your double glazing, it's crucial to fix it as soon as possible to prevent water and energy loss.
You can opt for either a temporary repair or more intensive epoxy fix depending on the severity of your crack. A temporary repair can keep cracks from spreading and keep out the cold and rain. A more extensive repair can reinforce the crack and create an improved seal.
To replace a damaged double-pane window, first remove the frame from the sash, and then set it on a table. Install a duct tap grid over the pane in order to prevent any glass fragments from falling off during removal. After the tape is installed, remove the old double-pane glass out of the frame. Then, clean the grooves and rabbet using a wire brush and vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth. If needed, take off the wood molding and scrape away all putty or metal points before putting in the new pane. Apply silicone caulk in the grooves and rabbets to ensure a secure fit.
If you're planning to repair damaged windows yourself, begin by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and clear of gunk or paint. Heat guns can be used to soften any glazing or putty points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned the putty knife can be used to push a rope of putty into place. Make sure that the putty has an even thickness and that it presses evenly against the glass and frame.
If you're looking for a long-term solution you can choose an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This option is more costly and has a longer waiting period however, it is also more attractive. It also lasts longer than an immediate fix.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common double glazed window issues, however it doesn't mean that your windows aren't working properly. It's a good thing your windows are showing signs of condensation. This indicates that your double glazing is working as it should, keeping out the cold and retaining the heat.
If you notice condensation appearing on the outside of your window, it is actually water vapor from inside of your home that has cooled and condensed onto the glass's surface. It's a natural process and isn't going to cause any harm to your windows unless you allow it remain on the glass for too long.
Internal condensation is usually caused by excessive humidity in the room or by low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces like the windows to attract moisture from the air that has high dew points (the temperature at which water transforms back into a liquid). Humidity is also inevitable around bathrooms and kitchens due to steam from showers or kettles and hot pots and pans used in cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothing close to windows, and make sure your uPVC frames are properly ventilated to avoid moisture buildup. To ensure maximum energy efficiency, you should ensure that double-glazed windows are installed correctly and insulated with the proper gap (6mm). You can also add air vents that are one-way on your windows to improve insulation. If you're still getting condensation,, then there's probably problems with gaskets or seals and this is something that should be handled by an expert.
Draughts
A double-glazed window that is draughty is an indication that the seal between the glass panes has broken and needs to be replaced. This could affect the insulation of your home and increase energy bills.
Window repair services will replace your sealed unit, restoring the efficiency to your windows. They can also upgrade your frames to incorporate new energy efficient features, such as gas filled argon glass units that have thermal spacer bars, which will cut down on heat loss and lower your heating bills.
Draughts can be caused by problems with the locking mechanisms of double glazed windows and doors, so it's important to have these checked out. It's common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to stiffen with age. This can be easily fixed by regularly lubricating the locks with a specialist uPVC cleaner.
A professional double glazing business will ensure that the repair is done correctly. They will have all the tools required to ensure that your window is watertight and fully sealed. They can also fix any damage to the frame so you can enjoy your new double glazing.
Double-glazed windows are strong and long-lasting, however they can experience issues due to weather or wear and tear. Call your local double-glazing repair service as soon as you notice any of these issues. You'll be thankful you did. A properly repaired double glazing installation will give your home that tangible sense of quality and will also save you money on your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows are made up of two separate panes with a spacer or dense gas between. This creates a solid seal to stop heat from escaping through the frame. They're an excellent choice to save energy and reduce the carbon footprint of your home. However, double glazing may experience a variety of issues that could impact its performance and endurance. These include condensation, fog and being difficult to close or open.
Difficulty opening your double glazed windows could be due to the weather or it could be due to a problem with the hinges or handles or mechanism. You can solve the issue by lubricating and wiping the windows with cold water. Contact the company who sold you windows as soon as you can get them fixed.
This is another common problem that is easily fixable. Again, it's worth checking the warranty to determine what repairs are covered under this warranty.
Foggy and fogged glass can be caused by moisture in the panes. It's typically a sign of faulty seals or a double-glazing unit that needs to be replaced. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished without the need to replace the whole window.
To correct this issue technicians will make tiny holes to let out any moisture between the glass panes and the rest of the window. Once the moisture has been removed then a new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Sometimes, the window will require removal prior to this can be accomplished but the majority of the time, it can be carried out within the home.
Mist
Double glazing that is older may have a mist issue, especially when it occurs both within and outside the window. This is because of a weakening of the seal designed to block moisture and air between the two panes. This seal is created during the production of double-glazed units by sealing the two panes using an airtight polysulphide seal or butyl seal around the edges and spacer bar. This is designed to protect the window from heat and prevent the window from being leaking. It can be difficult to clean double-glazed windows that have mist because you have to break the seal to do this.
The problem with mist is that it allows moisture to get in, which then results in condensation between the panes of glass. This is because there is a large difference in temperature between the internal and external surfaces of the glass. The moisture gets trapped in the gaps, giving an appearance of milky. This can be very unattractive and difficult to get rid of.
There are a number of companies who claim that they can fix your double glazed windows that are misting by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals into the holes. Then, they absorb the moisture from within. However, this isn't an effective solution to the issue and it's much easier to replace the whole double-glazed unit if experiencing misting.
It is important to keep your windows clean and conditioned regularly. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors 's also an excellent idea to install extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and wipe windows with a damp cloth to prevent the accumulation of moisture. If you are unable to avoid the problem, we recommend that you replace your double-glazed windows with new A-rated windows to increase the efficiency of your energy bills.