Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an excellent investment for your home, but it can be a hassle if it isn't working properly. Most issues can be fixed and you do not have to replace your windows or doors.
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panels separated by a thin gap that is filled with insulating gas such as argon or krypton. This helps increase a window's thermal efficiency.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are harder to break than single panes of glass, but they can still shatter or break. It is crucial to repair any broken panes in double glazing as quickly as possible to avoid the loss of energy and moisture.
You can opt for an immediate repair or a more intensive epoxy fix depending on the extent of your crack. A temporary repair will help to stop further cracks from occurring and keep out cold and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and provide the seal with a stronger one.
To replace a damaged double-pane windows, first remove the frame from the sash and set it on a table. Install a grid of duct tape over the pane in order to stop glass fragments from falling during removal. After the tape has been applied, remove the double-pane glass that was previously in 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 needed and scrape off any metal glazing points or putty before installing the new pane. Apply silicone caulk in the rabbets and grooves to ensure a snug fit.
If you're fixing a damaged glass by yourself, begin by sanding it until it is smooth and free of paint. You could also use a heat gun to soften any putty or glazing points. After the rabbet has been cleaned, a putty knife can be used to press the rope of putty into position. Make sure that the putty is of an even thickness and that it presses evenly against the glass frame.
If you're looking for a long-term fix, an epoxy repair is a better option than replacing it. upvc window repairs requires more work and a longer time to wait but it's more attractive and will last longer than a short-term repair.
Condensation
Condensation is a typical issue for double-glazed windows however, it doesn't mean that they are defective. The fact that your windows show condensation is actually a positive indicator that your double glazing is doing what it's supposed do, keeping the cold out and letting warmth in.
When you notice condensation developing on the outside of your windows, it is actually water vapor from inside of your home that has been cooled and condensed onto the surface of the glass. It's a natural process and isn't going to cause any harm to your windows unless you let it remain on the glass for too long.
The cause of internal condensation is usually a lack of humidity or low temperatures in the room. This creates cold surfaces, like windows and doors, to attract moisture that is high in dewpoint (the temperature at which water turns into a liquid). The steam from kettles, showers and hot pots as well as the cooking pans can also create humidity in kitchens and bathrooms.
To avoid condensation, try not to hang wet clothes near your windows and always make sure that your uPVC frames have plenty of air circulation to avoid the build-up of moisture. It is also important to make sure that your double-glazed windows are correctly insulated and installed with the proper gap (6mm is best) for optimum energy efficiency. You can also try installing one-way air vents on your windows to improve insulation. If you're still getting condensation, however, then there's problems with the seals or gaskets and this is definitely something that should be handled by a professional.
Draughts
A draughty double-glazed window is an indication that the seal between the glass panes has failed and will need to be replaced. This could affect the insulation of your home and can result in an increase in energy costs, so it's important to act as soon as you spot this issue.
Window repair services can replace your sealed unit, restoring energy efficiency to your windows. They can also modify your existing frames to incorporate energy efficient features, like gas-filled argon glass units that have thermal spacer bars that will cut down on the loss of heat and reduce your heating costs.
It is also worth checking the locking mechanisms of your double-glazed windows. It's common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to become stiff with the passage of time. This is easily fixed by regularly lubricating the locks with a specialist uPVC cleaner.
A reputable double glazing company can ensure that your repair is done correctly. They will have the right tools to make sure that your window is sealed and watertight. They can also fix any damage to the frame so that you can enjoy your new double-glazed window.
Double-glazed windows are durable and hard-wearing, but they may develop issues as a result of wear and tear or weather. Contact your local double-glazing repair service 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 reduce your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows are made up of two separate panes with the spacer or gas in between. This creates an effective seal to prevent heat from getting out of the frame. They are a great method to save energy and decrease your carbon footprint. However, double-glazed windows can encounter a myriad of issues that can affect its performance and endurance. This includes condensation, mist and being difficult to open or close.
If you're having trouble opening your double-glazed windows it could be because of the weather. It could also be a issue with the hinges, or handles. Wiping them clean with cold water and lubricating them can help to solve the issue, however you must contact the company that you purchased windows from as quickly as possible to have it fixed.
This is another issue that is easily fixable. Also, make sure to check the warranty to determine what, if any, repairs are covered under this.
Fogged or foggy glass could be caused by condensation between the panes. It's typically a sign of faulty seals or a double-glazing unit that needs replacing. It's a simple fix and you can often do it without having to replace the entire window, which will save you money.
To address this issue, a technician will make tiny holes to let out any moisture between the glass panes and the rest of the window. Once the moisture is gone the new anti-fog coating will be applied and the window sealed. Sometimes, windows require removal, but in most instances, it is done within the home.
Mist
Double glazing that has been in use for a long time may have a mist problem in particular when it occurs both within and outside the window. This is caused by a failure in the seal designed to prevent moisture and air between the 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 as well as a the spacer bar. This seal is designed to prevent the window from leaking, and also provide insulation. If you have misted double glazed windows, it may be difficult to take off and clean, since you'll need to break through the seal in order to clean.
The problem with mist is that it allows moisture to enter, which ultimately results in condensation between the glass panes. The reason is that there is a huge difference in temperature between the internal and exterior surfaces of the glass. The water is then absorbed within the spaces and gives the appearance of a milky white. This can be quite ugly and is a pain to get rid of.
Some companies claim that they can repair misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemical through the holes, which absorbs moisture from the inside. However, this isn't an end-to-end solution to the problem and it is far easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit if suffering from misting.
The best way to prevent double glazing that is smudgey is by keeping a good level of ventilation and cleaning your windows regularly. Use extractor fans to reduce the buildup of moisture in bathrooms and kitchens. Wipe down windows with a wet cloth to avoid this. If you're not able to avoid the issue completely we suggest replacing your double-glazed units with A-rated ones to improve the efficiency of energy.