Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can be a fantastic investment for your home, but it can be a pain when it doesn't work properly. Most problems can be repaired and you do not have to replace windows or doors.
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes separated by a small gap. The gap is filled with an insulating gas, like argon. This helps increase a window's thermal efficiency.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are less likely to break than single panes of glass however, they may still break or crack. If a pane is broken in your double-glazed windows, it's essential to repair it immediately to avoid water and energy loss.
Depending on the degree of the crack, you can choose to use an interim fix or go for a more intensive epoxy repair. A temporary repair can keep cracks from spreading and protect against cold and rain. A more extensive repair could make the crack stronger and provide an improved seal.
To replace a double-pane broken window, take the frame off and place it on a flat surface. Apply a grid of duct tape over the pane in order to stop glass fragments from falling off during removal. After the tape has been applied, remove the old double-pane glass from the frame. Then, clean the rabbet and grooves with a wire brush and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. If needed, take off the wood molding and scrape away any metal or putty before putting in the new pane. Apply a silicone caulk to the grooves and rabbet to ensure an ideal fit.
If you want to repair the cracks in your window yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and free of paint or gunk. The use of heat guns is to soften any glazing or putty points. After the rabbet has been cleaned the putty knife can be used to press the rope of putty into position. Make sure the putty is a uniform thickness and presses against the glass and the frame in a uniform way.
If you prefer a long-term fix an epoxy repair is a better option over a replacement. This option is more expensive and requires a longer waiting time however it can be more appealing. It will also last longer than the temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation is a typical issue for double-glazed windows however, it doesn't mean that 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 keep the cold out and letting warmth in.
When you notice condensation developing on the outside of your windows, it is actually water vapor coming from the inside of your home that has been cooled and condensed on the glass's surface. 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.
Internal condensation is often caused by excessive humidity in the room or the low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces such as windows to attract moisture from the air with high dew points (the temperature at which water turns back into a liquid). Humidity is also inevitable around kitchens and bathrooms because of the steam that comes from kettles, showers, and hot pans and pots used during cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothes close to windows, and make sure your uPVC frames are properly ventilated to avoid moisture buildup. Also, ensure that your double-glazed windows are correctly insulated and installed with the correct gap (6mm is the ideal) for optimum energy efficiency. You can also install air vents that are one-way on your windows to improve insulation. If you're still getting condensation,, then there's an issue with the seals or gaskets and this is definitely a job for an expert.
Draughts
A double-glazed window that is draughty is an indication that the seal between your glass panes has failed and will need to be replaced. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors could affect the insulation of your home and also increase energy bills.
A window repair service will replace the sealed unit for you, while restoring the effectiveness of your windows. They can also modify your existing frames to incorporate new energy-saving features, such as gas filled argon glass units with thermal spacer bars. This reduce the loss of heat and reduce your heating bills.
It's also worth examining the locking mechanisms on your double-glazed windows. Older uPVC window locks are infamous for becoming stiff over time however it's easy to fix this by regular lubrication using a specialized uPVC cleaning product.
A professional double glazing business can ensure that your repair is completed correctly. They'll have the proper tools to ensure that your window is completely resealed and watertight. They'll also be able to repair any other damages to your frame so you can enjoy your beautiful new double glazing with confidence.
Double-glazed windows are tough and long-lasting, however they can experience issues due to weather conditions or wear and tear. Call your local double-glazing repair services whenever you notice any of these issues. You'll be grateful you did - a well-repaired double glazing installation will give your house the tangible impression 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 or dense gas between. This creates a strong seal to prevent heat from venting out 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 could affect its performance and longevity. This includes condensation, mist, and difficult to open or close.
If you're having difficulty opening your double-glazed windows, it could be due to the weather. It could also be a problem with the hinges or handles. Wiping them clean with cold water and lubricating them can alleviate the issue, but you should contact the manufacturer that you purchased windows from as quickly as you can to get it fixed.
This is another issue that is easily fixable. It is also 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 usually an indication of damaged seals or an old double-glazing unit that needs replacing. It's a relatively straightforward fix and you can often get it done without having to replace the entire window, which will reduce the cost of replacement.
To fix this issue, a technician will make tiny holes to let out any moisture that is trapped between the glass panes and the rest of the window. Once the moisture is gone then a new anti-fog coating is applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes, windows need to be removed but, in most instances, it can be done from within the home.
Mist
Mist can be a big issue with older double glazing, particularly when it is present on the inside and outside of the windows. This is because of a weakening of the seal that is designed to block moisture and air between two panes. During the manufacture of double-glazed units the seal is made by sealing both panes using an airtight butyl or polysulphide seal around the edges of the glass as well as a spacer bar. This is designed to provide insulation and keep the window from being leaking. If you have misted double-glazed windows, they can be difficult to take off and clean up, as you will need to break the hardened seal to clean.
The problem with mists is that they permit moisture to get in and cause condensation between the glass panes. This is because there is a large difference in temperature between the internal and external surfaces of the glass. The moisture then gets trapped in the spaces and creates a milky white appearance. It can be very unsightly and it can be a pain to get rid of.
Some companies claim they can repair misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes in the unit and injecting a chemical through the holes, which absorbs moisture from the inside. However, this isn't an end-to-end solution and it's much easier to replace the whole double-glazed unit if you are experiencing misting.
The most effective way to prevent misty double glazing is making sure you have adequate ventilation and regularly cleaning your windows. Utilize extractor fans to lessen the amount of moisture that accumulates in kitchens and bathrooms. Clean windows with a damp cloth to avoid this. If you're unable to prevent the issue, we suggest replacing your double-glazed windows with A-rated units to improve energy efficiency.
