Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can be a fantastic investment for your home, but it can be frustrating when it fails to function correctly. Most problems can be repaired and you don't have to replace doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows are made up 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 increases the efficiency of a window's heating.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are less likely to break than single panes of glass, however they are still susceptible to shattering or crack. If a pane is broken in your double-glazed windows, it's essential to repair it immediately to avoid moisture and energy losses.
Depending on the extent of the crack you may decide to use an immediate repair or a more intensive epoxy repair. A temporary repair can help prevent further cracking and also keep out cold air and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and provide a stronger seal.
To replace a broken double-pane window, remove the frame and place it on a flat surface. Then, apply a grid of duct tape to the pane to stop glass pieces from falling off during removal. Once the tape is secured then pull the old double pane glass off of the frame. Then employ a wirebrush to clean the rabbets and grooves. You can also vacuum them or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. Remove the wood molding, if required and scrape off any putty or metal glazing points prior to installing the new pane. Apply silicone caulk to the rabbets and grooves in order to ensure a secure fit.
If you want to repair damaged windows yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and clear of paint or gunk. Heat guns can be used to soften any putty or glazing points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned, a putty knife can be employed to press putty rope into place. Make sure that the putty has an even thickness and that it presses evenly against the glass frame.
If you're looking for a long-term fix the repair of an epoxy is a better choice than replacing. This is more expensive and requires a longer waiting time however, it is also more appealing. It also lasts longer than a temporary fix.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue for double-glazed windows but that doesn't mean they are defective. The fact that your windows are showing condensation is actually a positive sign because it means that your double glazing is doing what it's supposed do, keeping the cold out and the warmth in.
When you see condensation forming on the outside of your window it is actually water vapor from inside of your home that has cooled and condensed on the surface of the glass. It's a natural process that won't cause harm to your windows in the event that you don't leave it on the surface too long.
The reason for condensation inside is usually excessive humidity or low temperatures in the room. This results in cold surfaces, such as windows which draw in moisture with a high in dewpoint (the temperature where water turns into liquid). The humidity is also a common occurrence in kitchens and bathrooms due to steam from kettles or showers and hot pans and pots that are used for cooking.
To avoid condensation, try not to hang wet clothing close to your windows. Also, ensure that your uPVC frames have ample air circulation to stop the build-up of moisture. To ensure maximum energy efficiency, be sure that double-glazed windows are constructed correctly and have the correct gap (6mm). You could also consider adding one-way air vents to your windows to improve insulation. If you're still getting condensation,, then there's likely an issue with gaskets or seals and this is a job for a professional.
Draughts
A double-glazed window that is draughty is an indication that the seal between the glass panes is broken and will need to be replaced. This will affect the insulation of your home and could cause an increase in energy costs and therefore it is important to act as soon as you notice the issue.
A window repair service will replace the sealed unit for you, while restoring the effectiveness of your windows. They can also upgrade your existing frames with energy-saving features, like glass units that are filled with argon, as well as thermal spacer bars to cut down on heat loss, and reduce your heating bills.
It's also worth checking the locking mechanisms of your double-glazed windows. Older uPVC window locks are notorious for becoming stiff with time however, it's simple to fix this by applying regular oiling with a specialist uPVC cleaning product.
Having a professional double glazing company perform repairs will ensure that the work is completed properly. They'll have all the tools necessary to ensure that your window is watertight and fully sealed. They'll also be able repair any other damage to your frame, so you can enjoy your stunning new double glazing with confidence.
Double-glazed windows last a long time and hard-wearing, but they may develop issues as a result of wear and tear or weather. If you spot any of the above problems contact your local double glazing repair company immediately to have them repaired as soon as you can. You'll be grateful 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 a spacer, air or dense gas between them to make an effective seal that prevents heating from entering the frame. They are a great method to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, double glazing may experience a variety of issues that could impact its performance and endurance. These include condensation, mist and being difficult to open or close.
Inability to open your double-glazed windows could be due to the weather, or it might be a fault with the hinges or handles or mechanism. You can solve the issue by lubricating and wiping down the windows with cold water. Contact the company that sold you the windows as soon as you can to get them fixed.
This is another common problem that can be fixed easily. It is a good idea to check your warranty to determine if there are any repairs covered.
Foggy and fogged glass can be caused by moisture in the panes. It's typically a sign of faulty seals or a double-glazing system that requires replacement. This is a simple fix that can be done without the need to replace the whole window.
To resolve this issue the technician will make small holes to release any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the rest the window. Once the moisture has been removed, a new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Sometimes the window will need to be taken off, but in most instances, it can be done at home.
Mist
Double glazing that is older may be prone to mist in particular when it occurs both in and out of the window. This is due to a malfunction of the seal designed to keep moisture and air between the two panes. This seal is created during the production of double-glazed units by sealing both panes with an airtight seal made of polysulphide or butyl around the edges and a spacer bar. This seal is designed to prevent the window from leaking, and also provide insulation. It isn't easy to clean windows with mist, as you need to break the seal in order to clean them.
The problem with mists is that they permit moisture to enter, which leads to condensation between the glass panes. This is because there is an enormous temperature difference between the external and internal surfaces of the glass. The moisture then gets trapped in the gaps and causes an appearance of milky white. This can be very unsightly, and can be difficult to remove.
Some companies claim they can repair misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes in the unit and injecting a chemical through the holes that absorbs moisture from the inside. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is not a permanent fix and it's easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit.
It is best to keep your windows clean and ventilated regularly. It's also a good idea to use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens and clean windows with a damp cloth to reduce the build-up of moisture. If you can't avoid the issue, we suggest replacing windows that are double-glazed with A-rated units to improve energy efficiency.