Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can be a great investment, but frustrating when it doesn't perform. Fortunately, most issues are repairable and you don't need to replace your doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes separated by a thin gap. The gap is then filled with an insulating gas, like 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 however, they may still break or break. When a pane becomes broken in your double glazing, it's important to repair it quickly to avoid water and energy loss.
Depending on the degree of the crack, you may decide to fix it with an immediate fix or go for a more intensive repair using epoxy. A temporary repair can aid in preventing further cracking and keep out cold air and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack, and will provide an even stronger seal.
To replace a double-pane damaged window, take the frame off and place it on a flat surface. Then, put upvc window repairs of duct tape over the pane to keep glass pieces from falling off during removal. After the tape has been installed, remove the old double-pane glass out of the frame. Then, use a wirebrush to clean the grooves and rabbets. You can also vacuum or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. If necessary, remove the wood molding and scrape away any metal or putty before putting in the new pane. Apply silicone caulk to the grooves and rabbets to ensure a secure fit.
If you want to repair a cracked window yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and clear of gunk or paint. You can also use a heat gun to soften any glazing points. Once the rabbet is cleaned and sanitized, a putty knife may be employed to press putty rope into position. Make sure the putty has a uniform thickness and is pressed against the glass and the frame evenly.
If you are looking for the long-term solution, you can opt for an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This option requires more work and takes longer, but it can be more attractive and will last much longer than a quick temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows however, it doesn't mean that they're not functioning properly. It's a good thing that your windows display condensation. This indicates that your double glazing is working exactly as it is supposed to, preventing the cold while allowing the heat.
It is actually water vapour from your home that forms a layer on the glass's surface when you notice condensation. It's a natural process and it's not something that's going to cause any damage to your windows unless you let it remain on the glass for a long time.
The reason for internal condensation is usually a lack of humidity or low temperatures in the room. This results in cold surfaces, like windows, to draw in moisture that is high dewpoint (the temperature where water turns into liquid). It is also commonplace in kitchens and bathrooms due to steam from kettles or showers as well as hot pots and pans that are used for cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothes close to windows, and make sure your uPVC frames are properly ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. To maximize energy efficiency, you should be sure that your double-glazed windows are installed correctly and insulated with the proper gap (6mm). You could also try adding one-way air vents to your windows to further improve insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, however, then there's problems with the gaskets or seals and this is something that should be handled by a professional.
Draughts
A window that isn't draughty is a sign that the seal between the glass panes of your double glazing has started to leak, and it's likely to require replacement. This will affect the insulation of your home and could cause an increase in energy bills and therefore it is important to act quickly when you notice this issue.
A window repair service will replace the sealed unit for you, and restore the efficiency of your windows. They can also upgrade your existing frames with new energy-efficient features, including glass units that are filled with argon, as well as thermal spacer bars that reduce heat loss and lower your heating costs.
Draughts can be caused by problems with the locking mechanisms of double-glazed windows and doors, so it's important to have the windows checked. Older uPVC window locks are infamous for becoming stiff after a while however, it's simple to fix this issue by applying regular oiling with an expert uPVC cleaning product.
A professional double glazing company can ensure that your repair is done properly. They'll have the proper tools to make sure that your window is completely sealed and watertight. They'll also be able repair any other damage to your frame so you can enjoy your beautiful new double-glazed window with confidence.
Double-glazed windows are durable and hard-wearing, but they may develop issues because of wear and tear or weather. Call your local double-glazing repair services immediately if you spot any of these issues. You'll be grateful you did it - a double glazing installation that is repaired properly will give your home a an impression of quality and will save you money on energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows comprise two separate panes, with an air or spacer dense gas between them to form an effective seal that blocks heat passing through the frame. They are a great way to conserve energy and reduce the carbon footprint of your home. Double glazing may have a number of problems that can impact its performance and longevity. These include condensation, mist and being difficult to open or close.
If you are having trouble opening your double-glazed windows it could be due to the weather. It could also be due to a issue with the hinges, or handles. You can solve the issue by wiping down and lubricating the windows with cold water. Contact the company that supplied you with windows as soon as you can get them fixed.
If your doors or windows have dropped or sagged over time, this is another frequent issue that can be easily fixed by a trained professional. Again, it's worth checking the warranty to determine what repairs are covered under this warranty.
Fogged and foggy glass can be caused by moisture in the panes and is usually the result of seals that are not working or a double-glazing unit that needs to be replaced. It's a relatively straightforward fix and often you can complete the task without having to replace the entire window, which can reduce the cost of replacement.
To address this issue the technician will make small holes to let out any moisture between the glass and the window. When the moisture is gone, a new anti-fog coating is applied and the window sealed. Sometimes, the window might need to be removed prior to this can be accomplished however most of the time, it can be done within the home.
Mist
Double glazing that has been in use for a long time may be prone to mist in particular when it happens both within and outside the window. It is caused by an issue with the seal that is designed to hold air and moisture between the two panes. When making double-glazed units the seal is made by sealing both panes using an airtight polysulphide or butyl seal around the edges of the glass and a the spacer bar. This seal is designed to stop the window from leaking and provide insulation. If you have misted double-glazed windows, they can be difficult to remove and clean up, as you'll have to break through the seal in order to clean.
The problem with mists is that they permit moisture to enter and cause condensation between the glass panes. This is because there is huge differences in temperature between the external and internal surfaces of the glass. The moisture then gets trapped in the spaces and creates the appearance of a milky white. It can be very unsightly and can be difficult to eliminate.
Some companies claim they can 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 an effective solution to the issue and it's much easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit if suffering from misting.
The easiest way to avoid misty double glazing is by maintaining a high level of ventilation and regularly cleaning your windows. It's also recommended to use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and wipe windows with a damp cloth to reduce the accumulation of moisture. If you're not able to avoid the issue completely We recommend replacing your double-glazed units with A-rated ones to boost the efficiency of energy.