Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an excellent investment for your home, but it can be frustrating when it doesn't work correctly. Most problems can be repaired and you don't need to replace windows or doors.
Double glazed windows consist of two glass panels separated by a thin gap, filled with insulating gas, such as Krypton or argon. This improves the efficiency of a window's heating.
Broken panes
While double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single-pane glass, they can still crack or shatter. It's important to fix any broken panes in double glazing as quickly as possible in order to avoid loss of energy and moisture.
Depending on the degree of the crack, you may decide to fix it with an immediate fix or go for an intensive repair using epoxy. A temporary repair can help to prevent further cracking and keep out rain and cold air. A more extensive repair may make the crack stronger and provide more secure seal.
To replace a damaged double-pane window, first take the frame from the sash and place it on the table. Then, place a grid of duct tape over the pane to stop 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. Then, use a wirebrush to clean the grooves and rabbets. You can also vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth. If needed, take off the wood molding and scrape off any metal or putty before installing the new pane. Apply a silicone caulk to the rabbet and grooves to ensure that the fit is secure.
If you're looking to fix the cracks in your window yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and clear of paint or gunk. Heat guns can be used 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 the putty has an even thickness and press against the glass and frame in a uniform way.
If you're looking for the long-term solution you can choose an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This method requires more effort and takes longer but it's more attractive and will last much longer than a quick temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation is a typical problem with double-glazed windows, however that doesn't mean they are defective. It's good to know that your windows show condensation. This indicates that your double glazing is working just as it is supposed to, keeping out the cold and keeping in the heat.
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 cooled and condensed on 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 usually caused by high humidity in the room or by low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces, like windows, to attract moisture from the air that has a high dew point (the temperature at which water turns back into a liquid). Humidity is also inevitable around bathrooms and kitchens due to steam from kettles or showers as well as hot pots and pans used in cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothing close to windows and ensure that your uPVC frames are ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture. For maximum energy efficiency, you should also make sure that your double-glazed windows have been properly installed and insulated with the correct gap (6mm). You can also add one-way air vents to your windows to increase insulation. If you still get condensation, there's a problem with your gaskets or seals. This is a task that should be left to a professional.
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. This can impact the insulation in your home and also increase energy costs.
Window repair services can replace your sealed unit, restoring the efficiency to your windows. They can also modify your existing frames to incorporate new energy saving features, like gas-filled argon glass units with thermal spacer bars, which will cut down on heat loss and lower your heating costs.
Draughts can also be caused by problems with the locking mechanisms of double-glazed windows, so it's worth getting these checked out. It is common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to become stiff with the passage of time. This can be easily corrected by lubricating the locks regularly using a specialist uPVC cleaner.
A professional double glazing business can ensure that your repair is done correctly. They'll have all the tools necessary to ensure that your window is watertight and fully sealed. They can also fix any damage to the frame so that you can enjoy your new double glazing.
Double-glazed windows are strong and long-lasting, however they can experience issues due to weather or wear and wear and tear. Call your local double-glazing repair services as soon as you spot any of these problems. You'll be thankful you did - a well-repaired double glazing installation will give your home that tangible feeling of quality, and it will also help you save money on your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows consist of two separate panes, with an air or spacer dense gas between them to make an effective seal that blocks heat passing through the frame. They are a great method to save 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 fog, condensation and being difficult to close or open.
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. Wiping them clean with cold water and then lubricating them may help ease the problem, but you must contact the company that you purchased windows from as quickly as possible to have it fixed.
If your windows or doors have sagged or dropped over time, this is another common problem that can be fixed by a trained professional. It's always worth checking your warranty to determine whether any repairs are covered.
Fogged and foggy glass can be caused by moisture in the panes. It's typically a sign of faulty seals or a double-glazing system that needs replacing. It's a simple fix and often you can do it without having to replace the entire window, which will save you money.
To address this issue technicians will drill tiny holes to vent out any moisture between the glass panes and the remainder of the window. When the moisture is gone then a new anti-fog coating is applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes, windows require removal but, in most instances, it is done at home.
Mist
Mist can be a huge issue for older double glazing, particularly when it is present on the outside and inside of the windows. This is due to a malfunction of the seal that is designed to block moisture and air between two panes. When making RepairMyWindowsAndDoors -glazed units, this seal is created by sealing both panes with an airtight butyl or polysulphide seal around the edges of the glass as well as a the spacer bar. This is designed to provide insulation and keep the window from leaks. It isn't easy to clean double-glazed windows that have mist as you must break the seal to clean them.
The problem with mist is that it allows moisture to enter, which ultimately results in condensation between the panes of glass. This is because there is a large difference in temperature between the internal and external surfaces of the glass. The moisture is trapped in the gaps, giving the appearance of milky. This can be very unsightly and is difficult to remove.
There are many companies that claim that they can fix your double-glazed windows that are misting by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals through the holes, which absorbs the moisture from within. However, this is not a permanent solution and it is much more efficient to replace the whole double-glazed unit if suffering from misting.
The best way to prevent misty double glazing is by keeping a good level of ventilation and regularly cleaning your windows. It's also a good idea to use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens and wipe windows with a damp cloth to prevent the accumulation of moisture. If you can't avoid the issue, we suggest that you replace your double-glazed windows with new A-rated units to improve the efficiency of your energy bills.