Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an investment that is worth it, but can be it can be frustrating when it doesn't work. Luckily, the majority of issues are fixable and you do not have to replace your doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows comprise two glass panels separated by a very thin gap, filled with insulating gas, such as Krypton or argon. This increases a window's efficiency.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are harder 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 moisture and energy losses.
You can select an immediate repair or a more extensive epoxy fix based on the degree of the crack. A temporary repair can help to prevent further cracks, and will keep out cold air and rain. A more extensive repair can reinforce the crack and create a better seal.
To replace a broken double-pane window, remove the frame and place it on an even surface. Then, apply a grid of duct tape on the pane to prevent glass pieces from falling off when you remove it. After the tape has been applied, remove the old double-pane glass from the frame. Next clean the rabbet and grooves with a wire brush and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Remove the wood molding, if required and scrape off any metal glazing points or putty before installing the new pane. Finally, apply a silicone caulk to the grooves and rabbet to ensure that the fit is secure.
If you're looking to fix damaged windows yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and free of gunk or paint. The use of heat guns is to soften any putty or glazing points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned then you can use a blade for a putty to press ropes into place. Make sure the putty has uniform in thickness and press 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 choice over replacing it. This option is more costly and will require a longer wait time however, it is also more appealing. It will also last longer than a temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation can be a common 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 indication that your double glazing is performing what it is supposed to do, keeping cold out and letting the warmth in.
It is actually water vapour from your home which condenses on the glass's surface when you observe condensation. It's quite a natural phenomenon and it's not something that's going to cause any damage to your windows unless you let it remain on the glass for too long.
The reason for internal condensation is usually a lack of humidity or low temperatures in the room. This results in cold surfaces, like windows and doors, to draw in moisture that is high in dewpoint (the temperature at which water transforms into a liquid). Humidity is also inevitable around kitchens and bathrooms because of the steam that comes from kettles, showers, as well as hot pots and pans used in cooking.
To prevent condensation, try not to hang wet clothes near your windows and always ensure that your uPVC frames have plenty of air circulation to avoid the accumulation of moisture. To ensure maximum energy efficiency, you should ensure that double-glazed windows are properly installed and insulated with the correct gap (6mm). You can also try installing one-way air vents on your windows to improve insulation. If you're still experiencing condensation, it's likely an issue with your seals or gaskets. This is a job best left to a professional.
Draughts
A window that isn't draughty is an indication that the seal between the glass panes of your double-glazing has begun to leak, and is likely to need replacing. This can impact the insulation of your home, and can increase energy costs.
Window repair services can replace your sealed unit, restoring the efficiency to your windows. They can also upgrade existing frames with energy-saving features, such argon-filled glass units and thermal spacer bars to reduce heat loss, and lower your heating costs.
It's also worth examining the locking mechanisms of your double-glazed windows. It is common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to stiffen with age. This can be easily fixed by lubricating the locks regularly with a specialist uPVC cleaner.
A professional double glazing business will ensure that the repair is completed correctly. They'll have the proper tools to ensure that your window is resealed and watertight. They'll also be able to fix any other damages to your frame so you can enjoy your stunning new double glazing with confidence.
Double-glazed windows are strong 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 spot any of these issues. You'll be happy you did it - a double glazing installation that is well-repaired will give your home an immediate sense of quality and save you money on energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows comprise two separate panes, with an air spacer or dense gas between them to make an effective seal that blocks heating from entering the frame. They are a great way to save energy and decrease your carbon footprint. However, double glazing may experience a variety of issues that could impact its performance and durability. This includes condensation, fog and difficulties to close or open.
If you're having difficulty opening your double-glazed windows, it could be due to the weather. It could also be a issue with the hinges or handles. You can ease the problem by lubricating and wiping down the windows with cold water. Contact the company who supplied you with the windows as soon as you can to fix them.
This is another common problem that can be fixed easily. Again, it's worth checking the warranty to determine what repairs are covered under this warranty.
Fogged or foggy glass is caused by the presence of moisture between the panes. It's usually a sign that the seals aren't functioning properly or your double-glazing unit needs to be replaced. This is a simple solution that can be achieved without having to replace the whole window.
To fix this issue technicians will drill tiny holes to vent any moisture between the glass panes and the remainder of the window. After the moisture has been removed the new antifog coating is put on and the window is sealed. Sometimes, the window will need to be removed prior to this happens however most of the time, it is done from inside the home.
Mist
Double glazing that has been in use for a long time may have a mist issue in particular when it happens both in and out of the window. upvc repair is caused by a failure in the seal designed to prevent air and moisture out between the two panes. This seal is created during the production of double-glazed units by sealing both panes with an airtight polysulphide seal or butyl seal around the edges and a spacer bar. This is meant to protect the window from heat and prevent the window from being leaking. If you have misted double-glazed windows, they can be difficult to take off and clean, as you'll need to break the hardened seal in order to clean.
The issue with mists is that they allow moisture to enter 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 is then trapped in the gaps and causes the appearance of a milky white. This can be quite ugly and it can be difficult to get rid of.
There are several companies who claim 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. This isn't an end-to-end solution and it's more cost-effective to replace the entire double-glazed unit.
It is important to keep your windows clean and ventilated regularly. Use extractor fans to reduce the amount of moisture that accumulates in bathrooms and kitchens. Clean windows with a wet cloth to avoid this. If you're not able to avoid the issue completely We recommend replacing your double-glazed units with new A-rated units to increase the efficiency of energy.