Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can be a fantastic investment for your home, but it can be a hassle if it doesn't work correctly. Luckily, the majority of issues are fixable and you do not need to replace your windows or doors.
Double glazed windows consist of two glass panels separated by a very thin gap, filled with an insulating gas such as Krypton or argon. This helps increase a window's thermal efficiency.
Broken panes
While double-pane windows are more resistant to breaking than single-pane glass, they can still crack or shatter. It is important to repair a broken pane in double glazing as soon as possible to avoid loss of energy and moisture.
You can choose either a temporary repair or more intense epoxy fix based on the degree of the crack. A temporary repair can help to prevent further cracking and will keep out rain and cold air. A more extensive repair could strengthen the crack and provide an improved seal.
To replace a double-pane broken window, remove the frame and place it on a flat surface. Install a grid of duct tape over the pane to prevent any glass fragments from falling off during removal. Once the tape is in place, 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 clean with a damp cloth. Remove the wood moldings if necessary and scrape off any metal glazing points prior to putting in the new pane. Apply silicone caulk in the rabbets and grooves in order to ensure a tight fit.
If you're trying to repair a damaged glass by yourself, start by sanding it until it's smooth and free of paint. Heat guns can be used to soften any putty or glazing points. After the rabbet has been cleaned, a putty knife can be used to press a rope of putty into position. Make sure that the putty is of an even thickness, and that it presses evenly against the glass and frame.
If you're looking for a long-term solution you can choose an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This option is more expensive and will require a longer wait time however, it is also more attractive. It also lasts longer than the temporary fix.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue for double-glazed windows however, it doesn't mean that they're defective. The fact that your windows show condensation is a good indicator that your double glazing is doing what it's supposed to do, keeping cold out and the warmth in.
It's actually water vapour from your home that condenses on the glass's surface when you notice condensation. It's a natural process and isn't likely to cause harm to your windows unless you let it remain on the glass for too long.
Internal condensation is usually caused by too much humidity in the room or the low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces, like windows, to attract moisture from the air with high dew points (the temperature at which water changes into liquid). It is also commonplace in bathrooms and kitchens due to steam from kettles or showers and hot pans and pots that are used for cooking.
To prevent condensation, try not to hang wet clothing close to windows. Also, make sure that your uPVC frames are able to provide ample air circulation to stop the accumulation of moisture. You should also make sure that your double-glazed windows are properly insulated and fitted, with the proper gap (6mm is ideal) for optimum energy efficiency. upvc window repairs can also add one-way air vents on your windows to increase the insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, there's an issue with your seals or gaskets. This is a task best left to an expert.
Draughts
A window that isn't properly sealed can be an indication that the seal between your glass panes has broken and will require to be replaced. This could affect the insulation of your home, and can increase energy bills.
A window repair service can replace the sealed unit for you, restoring the effectiveness of your windows. They can also upgrade your frames to incorporate new energy-saving features, like argon gas filled glass units that have thermal spacer bars that will cut down on the loss of heat and reduce the cost of heating.
It is also worth checking the locking mechanisms of your double-glazed windows. It's normal for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to become stiff as they age. This can be easily corrected by lubricating the locks regularly using a specialist uPVC cleaner.
Having a professional double glazing company perform repairs will ensure that the process is completed properly. They'll have all the tools required to ensure that your window is watertight and completely sealed. They'll also be able to repair any other damages to your frame so you can enjoy your gorgeous new double glazing with confidence.
Double-glazed windows are strong and long-lasting, but they can experience issues because of weather or wear and tear. Contact your local double-glazing repair service whenever you discover any of these problems. You'll be glad that you did it. A double glazing installation well-maintained will give your house a an immediate sense of quality, and will also save your energy costs!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows consist of two panes that have an air spacer or dense gas between them to form an effective seal that blocks heating from entering the frame. They're an excellent option to reduce energy consumption and the carbon footprint. Double glazing can have several issues that can affect its performance and life span. These include fog, condensation, and difficulty closing 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 down with cold water and lubricating them can alleviate the issue, but you must contact the company that you purchased your windows from as soon as you can to get it repaired.
If your windows or doors have sagged or dropped over time, this is a common issue that can be easily fixed by a trained professional. It's always worth checking your warranty to see whether there are any repairs covered.
Fogged or foggy glass could be caused by moisture between the panes. It's typically an indication of damaged seals or an old double-glazing unit that needs to be replaced. This is a simple fix that can be done without having to replace the whole window.
To fix this problem, a technician will make small holes to release any moisture between the glass and the window. Once the moisture is gone, a new anti-fog coating will be applied and the window will be sealed. Occasionally, the window may need to be removed before this happens however most of the time it is done from the inside of the home.
Mist
Double glazing that is older may be prone to mist particularly when it occurs both inside and outside the window. It is caused by an issue with the seal designed to prevent air and moisture between the two panes. This seal is constructed during the manufacturing of double-glazed units by sealing both panes using an airtight polysulphide or butyl seal around the edges and a spacer bar. This seal is designed to stop the window from leaking and to provide insulation. If you have misted double-glazed windows, they can be a challenge to remove and clean up, as you'll need to break through the seal to clean.
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 a milky appearance. This can be quite ugly and can be a pain to get rid of.
There are a number of companies that claim they can fix your double glazed windows that are misting by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals through the holes. Then, they absorb the moisture inside. This isn't a permanent fix and it's more cost-effective to replace the entire double-glazed unit.
The most effective method to avoid misty double glazing is by maintaining a high level of ventilation and regularly cleaning your windows. Make use of extractor fans to minimize the amount of moisture that accumulates in kitchens and bathrooms. Clean windows with a damp cloth to prevent this. If you're unable to avoid the issue completely, we recommend replacing your double-glazed units with new A-rated ones to improve the efficiency of energy.