Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can be an excellent investment, but it can also be it can be frustrating when it doesn't work. Luckily, the majority of issues are fixable and you do not need to replace your windows or doors.
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panels separated by an extremely thin gap, which is filled with insulating gas, such as Krypton or argon. This makes windows more efficient.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are more difficult to break than single panes of glass, however, they may still break or crack. When a pane becomes broken in your double glazing, it's crucial to repair it immediately to avoid loss of energy and moisture.
Depending on the extent of the crack you can choose to use an interim fix or opt for more extensive repair using epoxy. A temporary repair will help to keep cracks from spreading and keep out cold and rain. A more extensive repair can make the crack stronger and provide a better seal.
To replace a double-pane damaged window, take the frame off and place it on an un-slip surface. Then, place a grid of duct tape to the pane to keep any glass pieces from falling off when you remove it. Once the tape is secured then pull the old double pane glass from the frame. Next, clean the grooves and rabbet using a wire brush and vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth. Remove the wood moldings if necessary and scrape off any putty or metal glazing points prior to installing the new pane. Apply silicone caulk in the rabbets and grooves in order to ensure a tight fit.
If you're planning to repair a cracked window yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and clear of gunk or paint. You could also use a heat gun to soften any glazing or putty points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned then you can use a blade for a putty to push the rope into position. Make sure that the putty is uniform in thickness and press against the glass and frame evenly.
If you're looking for a long-term fix an epoxy repair is a better choice over a replacement. This method requires more effort and a longer wait time, but it can be more appealing and will last much longer than a quick temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation is among 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 show condensation. This indicates that the double glazing is functioning exactly as it should, keeping out the cold and retaining the heat.
When you notice condensation developing on the outside of your window, it is actually water vapor from inside of your home that has cooled down and condensed onto the surface of the glass. It's a natural process that won't harm your windows except if you let it sit on the surface too long.
Internal condensation is often caused by excessive humidity in the room or by low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces such as windows to attract moisture from the air with a high dew point (the temperature at which water turns back into liquid). It is also commonplace in kitchens and bathrooms due to steam from kettles or showers as well as hot pots and pans used during cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothes close to windows, and make sure your uPVC frames are properly ventilated to avoid moisture buildup. To ensure maximum energy efficiency, you must be sure that your double-glazed windows are constructed correctly and have the correct gap (6mm). You can also install one-way air vents to your windows to increase the insulation. If you're still seeing condensation,, then there's probably problems with the gaskets or seals and this is an issue that requires the expertise of a professional.
Draughts
A draughty window is a sign that the seal between the glass panes of your double-glazing has begun to leak and is likely to need replacing. This could affect the insulation of your home and cause an increase in energy costs, so it's important to act fast when you notice this issue.
A window repair service can replace the sealed unit for you, and restore the efficiency of your windows. They can also modify your existing frames to incorporate energy-saving features, like gas-filled argon glass units that have thermal spacer bars that will reduce the loss of heat and reduce the cost of heating.
Draughts can also be caused by issues with the locking mechanisms of double glazed windows, so it's worth getting the windows checked. Older uPVC window locks are notorious for becoming stiff after a while however, it's simple to fix this issue by lubricating them regularly with a specialist uPVC cleaning product.
A professional double glazing business will ensure that the repair is done correctly. They will have the tools needed to ensure that your window is watertight, and completely resealed. They'll also be able to repair any other damages to your frame so you can enjoy your beautiful new double-glazed window with confidence.
Double-glazed windows are durable and long-lasting, however they can develop issues due to weather or wear and wear and tear. Call your local double-glazing repair company whenever you spot any of these issues. You'll be glad you did - a well-repaired double glazing installation will give your house that tangible feeling of quality and will also save you money on your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two separate panes, with an air spacer or dense gas between. This creates a solid seal that stops heat from getting out of the frame. They're a great option to reduce energy consumption and the carbon footprint. Double glazing may have many issues that can 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 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 provided you with windows as soon as you can get them fixed.
If your doors or windows have sagged or dropped over time, this is a common issue which can be easily solved by a trained professional. Also, make Repair My Windows And Doors to check the warranty to see what repairs are covered under this.
Fogged or foggy glass could be caused by moisture in the panes. It's usually the result of seals that are not working or a double-glazing system that requires replacement. It's a simple fix and you can often complete the task without having to replace the entire window, which can save you money.
To fix this problem the technician will make small holes to release any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the rest the window. Once the moisture is removed the new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Occasionally, the window may need to be removed prior to this can be accomplished, but most of the time it can be done from the inside of the home.
Mist
Mist can be a major issue for older double glazing, especially when it happens on the exterior and the interior of the windows. This is because of a weakening of the seal designed to prevent air and moisture between the two panes. This seal is constructed when making double-glazed units by sealing the two panes using an airtight polysulphide seal or butyl seal around the edges and a spacer bar. This seal is designed to stop the window from leaking, and also provide insulation. It isn't easy to clean misted double-glazed windows, as you need to break the seal to do so.
The problem with mists is that they permit moisture to get in which causes condensation between the glass panes. This is because there is huge differences in temperature between the internal and external surfaces of the glass. The water is then absorbed in the spaces and creates the appearance of a milky white. This can be very unsightly and is difficult to remove.
Some firms claim to be able to fix misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes into the unit and injecting a chemical through the holes, which absorbs moisture from the inside. This is not permanent solution and it's more cost-effective to replace the entire double-glazed unit.
The easiest way to avoid misty double glazing is by keeping a good level of ventilation and cleaning your windows regularly. It's also a good idea to use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and wipe windows with a damp cloth to prevent the build-up of moisture. If you can't avoid the problem, we recommend that you replace your double-glazed windows with A-rated windows to increase energy efficiency.