Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is a great investment for your home, however it can be a hassle if it doesn't work properly. Luckily, the majority of issues can be fixed and you don't need to replace your windows or doors.
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes separated by a small gap. The gap is filled with an insulating gas such as the gas argon. This improves the efficiency of a window's heating.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are harder 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.
You can select either a temporary repair or more intensive epoxy fix depending on the degree of the crack. A temporary repair will aid in preventing further cracking, and keep out rain and cold air. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and create a stronger seal.
To replace a double-pane broken window, remove the frame and place it on a flat surface. Apply a duct tap grid over the pane to stop glass fragments from falling during removal. Once the tape is in place then pull the old double pane glass out of the frame. Next, clean the rabbet and grooves with a wire brush and vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth. If needed, take off the wood molding and scrape off any metal or putty prior to installing the new pane. Apply silicone caulk in the rabbets and grooves in order to ensure a snug fit.
If you're trying to repair a damaged glass yourself, start by sanding the glass until it's smooth and free of paint. You can also use a heating gun to soften any glazing points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned, a putty knife can be used to press the rope of putty into position. Make sure the putty has an even thickness and presses against the glass and the frame in a uniform way.
If you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time, you can opt for an epoxy repair instead of replacing. This requires more work and takes longer but it's more attractive and will last longer than a short-term repair.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most frequently encountered double-glazed window problems, but it doesn't necessarily mean that your windows aren't working properly. It's a good thing your windows show condensation. This means that the double glazing is functioning exactly as it is supposed to, keeping out the cold and keeping in the heat.
If you notice condensation appearing on the outside of your windows, it is actually water vapor from the inside of your home that has been cooled and condensed on the surface of the glass. It's a natural process that isn't harmful to your windows, in the event that you don't leave it on the glass for 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 that is high in dewpoint (the temperature at which water transforms into liquid). It is also commonplace in kitchens and bathrooms because of steam from kettles or showers as well as hot pots and pans that are used for cooking.
To avoid condensation, try not to hang wet clothing near your windows and always make sure that your uPVC frames are able to provide ample air circulation to stop the build-up of moisture. You should also ensure that your double glazed windows are properly insulated and fitted with the right gap (6mm is the ideal) for optimum energy efficiency. You can also add one-way air vents on your windows to increase the insulation. If you're still experiencing condensation, there's a problem with the seals or gaskets and this is something that should be handled by an expert.
Draughts
A double-glazed window that is draughty is an indication that the seal between your glass panes is broken and will require to be replaced. This will affect the insulation of your home and result in an increase in your energy bills, so it's important to act as soon as you notice the issue.
Window repair services will replace your sealed unit, restoring energy efficiency to your windows. They can also upgrade your existing frames with new energy-saving features, such glass units filled with argon and thermal spacer bars that reduce heat loss and cut down on heating costs.
It's also worth checking the locking mechanisms on your double-glazed windows. Older uPVC window locks are notorious for becoming stiff over time however, it's simple to fix this issue by regular lubrication using a specialist uPVC cleaning product.
A professional double glazing company can ensure that your repair is completed correctly. They will have all the tools required to ensure that your window is watertight, and completely sealed. They'll also be able to fix any other damage 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 wear and tear. If you notice any of the above problems, call your local double glazing repair service right away to get them fixed in the shortest time possible. You'll be glad that you did. A well-maintained 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 are made up of two separate panes, with an air or spacer dense gas between them to create an effective seal that stops heating from entering the frame. They are a great way to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, double glazing may encounter a myriad of issues that can affect its performance and longevity. This includes condensation, fog and difficulties to close or open.
If you are having trouble opening your double-glazed windows, it could be due to upvc doors repairs the weather. It could also be due to a issue with the hinges or handles. It is possible to solve the issue by lubricating and wiping the windows with cold water. Contact the company that provided you with the windows as soon as you can have them fixed.
This is another issue which can be easily fixed. It is always worth checking your warranty to see whether there are any repairs covered.
Fogged and foggy glass can be caused by condensation between the panes. It's typically the result of seals that are not working or an old double-glazing unit that needs replacing. This is a simple fix that can be done without having to replace the entire window.
To address this issue the technician will make small holes to release any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the window. After the moisture has been removed the new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Occasionally, the window may need to be removed before this can be accomplished however most of the time, it can be carried out from the inside of the home.
Mist
Mist can be a big issue with older double glazing, especially when it occurs on both the exterior and the interior of the windows. This is due to a malfunction of the seal designed to keep moisture and air between the two panes. In the production of double-glazed units this seal is created by sealing both panes with an airtight butyl or polysulphide seal around the edges of the glass and a the spacer bar. This is designed to create insulation and prevent the window from leaking. If you have misted double-glazed windows, it may be difficult to take off and clean, as you'll have to break through the seal to clean.
The problem with mist is that it lets moisture to enter, which ultimately causes condensation between the panes of glass. The reason is that there is a big difference in temperature between the internal and exterior glass surfaces. The moisture gets trapped in the spaces, creating a milky appearance. This can be very unattractive and difficult to get rid of.
There are a number of companies who claim to be able to repair your double-glazed windows that are misting by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals through the holes, which absorbs the moisture within. But, this isn't an effective solution to the problem and it is far easier to replace the whole double-glazed unit if you are suffering from misting.
The easiest way to prevent misty double glazing is maintaining a high level of ventilation and cleaning your windows regularly. It's also an excellent idea to install extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens and wipe windows with a damp cloth to prevent the accumulation of moisture. If you're unable to completely avoid the issue we suggest replacing the double-glazed units you have with A-rated ones to improve the efficiency of your energy usage.