Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is a great investment for your home, however it can be a hassle if it isn't working correctly. Most issues can be fixed and you do not have to replace doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panels that are separated by a very thin gap that is filled with insulating gas, such as argon or krypton. This makes windows more efficient.
Broken panes
Double-pane windows are resistant to breaking than single-pane glass, they may break or shatter. If a pane is broken in your double-glazed windows, it's essential to fix it as soon as possible to avoid water and energy loss.
You can select a temporary repair or a more intense epoxy fix based on the severity of your crack. A temporary repair can aid in preventing further cracks, and keep out cold air and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and provide an even stronger seal.
To replace a broken double-pane window, first take the frame from the sash, and then set it on the table. Then, apply a grid of duct tape over the pane to keep any glass pieces from falling off when you remove it. After the tape is installed, remove the old double-pane glass from the frame. Then clean the grooves and rabbet using a wire brush and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. If needed, remove the wood molding and scrape away any metal or putty before installing the replacement pane. Apply silicone caulk in the rabbets and grooves to ensure a tight fit.
If you're trying to repair a damaged glass by yourself, begin by sanding it until it's smooth and free of paint. Heating guns can be used to soften any putty or glazing. After the rabbet is cleaned and dried, you can use a putty blade to press a rope into place. Make sure the putty has a uniform thickness and presses against the glass and the frame in a uniform way.
If you're looking for a long-term fix, an epoxy repair is a better option than replacing. This option requires more work and a longer wait time, but it can be more attractive and will last longer than a short-term repair.
Condensation
Condensation is among the most frequent double-glazed window problems, but it doesn't mean that your windows aren't working properly. The fact that your windows show condensation is actually a good indicator that your double glazing is doing what it's supposed to do, keeping cold out and letting warmth in.
It's actually water vapour from your home which condenses on the glass's surface when you observe condensation. It's a normal phenomenon and isn't likely to cause any harm to your windows unless you let it sit on the surface for too long.
Internal condensation is often caused by too much humidity in the room or by low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces like the windows to attract moisture from the air that has a high dew point (the temperature at which water changes into a liquid). The steam from showers, kettles, and hot pots and the cooking pans can also cause humidity around kitchens and bathrooms.
Avoid hanging wet clothes close to windows and ensure that your uPVC frames are properly ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture. You should also make sure that your double-glazed windows are correctly insulated and installed with the correct gap (6mm is ideal) for optimum energy efficiency. You could also consider adding one-way air vents to your windows to increase insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, there's probably problems with gaskets or seals and this is definitely something that should be handled by an expert.
Draughts
A window that is drafty is an indication that the seal between the glass panes of your double-glazing has begun to leak, and it's likely to require replacement. This will affect the insulation upvc glazing of your home and result in an increase in your energy bills, so it's important to act fast when you spot this issue.
A window repair service will replace the sealed unit for you, while restoring the efficiency of your windows. They can also replace existing frames with energy-saving features, like argon-filled glass units and thermal spacer bars that will reduce heat loss and cut down on heating costs.
It's also worth examining the locking mechanisms on your double-glazed windows. It's normal for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to become stiff with the passage of time. This can be easily fixed by regularly lubricating the locks with a specialist uPVC cleaner.
Having a professional double glazing business to complete repairs will ensure that the process is done correctly. They will have the tools needed to ensure that your window is watertight and fully resealed. They'll also be able fix any other damages to your frame so you can enjoy your stunning new double glazing with confidence.
Double-glazed windows are durable and durable, however they may develop issues because of wear and tear or the weather. Contact your local double-glazing repair service as soon as you notice any of these problems. You'll be grateful that you did it. A double glazing installation that's well-repaired will give your home an impression of quality, and will also save your energy costs!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows comprise two separate panes, with a spacer, air or dense gas between them to create an effective seal that blocks heat passing through the frame. They're an excellent choice to reduce energy consumption and the carbon footprint of your home. However, double glazing may encounter a myriad of issues that may affect its performance and longevity. These include condensation, mist, and being difficult to open or close.
The difficulty in 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 ease the problem by lubricating and wiping down the windows with cold water. Contact the company that provided you with the windows as soon as you can to fix them.
If your windows or doors have become sagging or dropped over time, this is another common issue which can be easily solved by a trained professional. It is always worth checking your warranty to determine if there are any repairs covered.
Fogged or foggy glass could be caused by condensation between the panes and is usually a sign of faulty seals or an old double-glazing unit that needs to be replaced. It's a simple fix and you can often do it without having to replace the entire window, which can save you money.
To fix this problem the technician will make small holes to let out any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the window. Once the moisture is gone the new anti-fog coating will be applied and the window sealed. Sometimes, windows need to be taken off, but in most instances, it is done from within the home.
Mist
Double glazing that has been in use for a long time may have a mist problem particularly when it happens both within and outside the window. It is due to a failure in the seal designed to prevent moisture and air between the two panes. This seal is constructed when making double-glazed units by sealing the two panes using an airtight polysulphide or butyl seal around the edges and a spacer bar. This is meant to create insulation and prevent the window from leaks. If you have misted double-glazed windows, it may be a challenge to remove and clean, since you'll have to break through the seal to clean.
The issue with mist is that it lets moisture to enter, which ultimately results in condensation between the panes of glass. The reason is that there is a significant difference in temperature between the inside and exterior surfaces of the glass. The moisture gets trapped in the spaces, creating a milky appearance. This can be very unsightly and difficult to get rid of.
There are a number of companies that claim to be able to repair your double glazed windows that are misting by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals into the holes which then absorbs the moisture within. This is not a permanent fix and it's more cost-effective to replace the entire double-glazed unit.
It is best to keep your windows clean and ventilated regularly. It is also a good idea to use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and wipe windows with an damp cloth to minimize the build-up of moisture. If you can't avoid the issue, we suggest that you replace your double-glazed windows with A-rated units to improve the efficiency of your energy bills.