Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is a great investment for your home, but it can be a hassle if it isn't working properly. Most issues can be addressed and you do not have to replace windows or doors.
Double-glazed windows consist of two glass panes that are separated by a very thin gap. The gap is filled with an insulating gas like argon. This helps increase 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 soon as possible to avoid loss of energy and moisture.
You can choose either a temporary repair or more intensive epoxy fix depending on the severity of your crack. A temporary repair can aid in preventing further cracking and also keep out cold air and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and provide an even stronger seal.
To replace a broken double-pane window, first take the frame from the sash and set it on a table. Then, apply a grid of duct tape over the pane to prevent glass pieces from falling off when you remove it. Once the tape is secured, pull the old double pane glass off of the frame. Then employ a wirebrush to clean the rabbets and grooves. You can also vacuum or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. If necessary, remove the wood molding and scrape off all putty or metal points before installing the new pane. Apply silicone caulk into the rabbets and grooves to ensure a tight fit.
If you want to repair a cracked window yourself, begin 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 points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned and dried, you can use a blade for a putty to push the rope into position. Make sure that the putty is of an even thickness and that it presses evenly against the glass and frame.
If you prefer a long-term fix, an epoxy repair is a better choice than replacing it. Repair My Windows And Doors requires more effort and takes longer but it's more attractive and will last much longer than a short-term repair.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most frequently encountered double-glazed window issues, but it doesn't necessarily mean your windows are defective. The fact that your windows show condensation is actually a positive sign because it means that your double glazing is doing what it's supposed to do, keeping the cold out and letting warmth in.
If you notice condensation appearing on the outside of your window it is actually water vapor from inside of your home that has cooled and condensed on the surface of the glass. It's a natural process that won't cause harm to your windows in the event that you don't leave it on the glass for long enough.
The reason for condensation inside is usually a lack of humidity or low temperatures in the room. This causes cold surfaces, such as windows which draw in moisture with a high in dewpoint (the temperature where water turns into liquid). The steam from showers, kettles and hot pots as well as saucepans used in cooking can also cause a lot of humidity around bathrooms and kitchens.
To prevent condensation, try not to hang wet clothing close to your windows. Also, ensure that your uPVC frames have ample air circulation to stop the build-up of moisture. To ensure maximum energy efficiency, you should be sure that your double-glazed windows have been properly installed and insulated with the correct gap (6mm). You could also consider installing one-way air vents on your windows to further improve insulation. If you're still getting condensation,, then there's probably a problem with the seals or gaskets and this is definitely something that should be handled by a professional.
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 will affect the insulation of your home and could cause an increase in energy bills and therefore it is important to act as soon as you notice the problem.
A window repair service will replace the sealed unit for you, and restore the effectiveness of your windows. They can also upgrade your existing frames with new energy-saving features, such argon-filled glass units and thermal spacer bars that will reduce heat loss, and cut down on heating costs.
Draughts can also be caused by issues with the locking mechanisms of double glazed windows and doors, so it's important to have the windows checked. Older uPVC window locks are infamous for becoming stiff after a while, but it's easy to fix this by lubricating them regularly with a specialist uPVC cleaning product.
A reputable double glazing company will ensure that the repair is done correctly. They'll have the appropriate tools to make sure that your window is sealed and watertight. They can also repair any damage to the frame so that you can take advantage of your new double glazing.
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 as soon as you spot any of these problems. You'll be glad you did. A properly 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 comprise two separate panes with an air spacer or dense gas between them to form an effective seal that stops heat from passing through the frame. They are a great method to save energy and decrease your carbon footprint. However, double glazing may have a range of issues that can affect its performance and endurance. These include fog, condensation, and difficulties to close or open.
If you're having difficulty opening your double-glazed windows, it could be because of the weather. It could also be due to a issue with the hinges or handles. Wiping them clean with cold water and lubricating them can help to solve the issue, however you should contact the manufacturer that you purchased your windows from as soon as possible to have it repaired.
If your doors or windows have become sagging or dropped over time, this is another frequent issue which can be easily solved by a trained professional. It is a good idea to check your warranty to see whether there are any repairs covered.
Foggy or fogged glass is caused by moisture in the panes. It's usually a sign that your seals are faulty or that the double-glazing system needs to be replaced. It's a fairly simple fix and you'll often complete the task without having to replace the entire window, which can save you money.
To address this issue the technician will drill small holes to vent any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the rest the window. After the moisture has been removed then a new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Sometimes the window will need to be taken off, but in most cases, it can be done from within the home.
Mist
Mist can be a major issue for older double glazing, particularly when it is present on the inside and outside of the windows. This is due to a malfunction of the seal designed to prevent moisture and air between two panes. When making double-glazed units, this seal is created by sealing both panes with an airtight polysulphide or butyl seal around the edges of the glass and a spacer bars. This is designed to provide insulation and keep the window from being leaking. It isn't easy to clean windows with mist as you must break the seal in order to do this.
The issue with mist is that it allows moisture to get in, which then causes condensation between the panes of glass. This is because there is huge differences in temperature between the external and internal surfaces of the glass. The moisture then gets trapped within the spaces and gives the appearance of a milky white. This can be quite ugly and is difficult to eliminate.
Some companies claim that they can fix misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals through the holes that absorbs moisture from the inside. This isn't a permanent fix and it's more cost-effective to replace the entire double-glazed unit.
It is best to keep your windows clean and ventilated regularly. It's also recommended to use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and wipe windows with a damp cloth to prevent the accumulation of moisture. If you're unable to prevent the problem, we recommend replacing windows that are double-glazed with A-rated windows to increase energy efficiency.