A Productive Rant Concerning Double Glazed Window Repair

Double Glazed Window Repairs

Double glazing is an excellent investment, but it can also be frustrating when it doesn't perform. Fortunately, energy efficient windows are repairable and you don't have to replace your doors or windows.

Double-glazed windows comprise two glass panels that are separated by an extremely thin gap, filled with an insulating gas such as argon or krypton. This makes windows more efficient.

Broken panes

Double-paned windows are harder to break than single panes of glass however they are still susceptible to shattering or break. When a pane becomes broken in your double-glazed windows, it's essential to repair it immediately to avoid moisture and energy losses.

Depending on the severity of the crack, you can choose to fix it with a temporary repair or more extensive epoxy repair. A temporary repair can stop further cracks from occurring and keep out rain and cold air. 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 the table. Then, put a grid of duct tape on the pane to stop glass pieces from falling off during removal. Once the tape has been installed, remove the double-pane glass that was previously in the frame. Next, clean the grooves and rabbet using a wire brush, vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth. Remove the wood molding, if required and scrape away all metal glazing points prior to putting in the new pane. Apply silicone caulk in the grooves and rabbets to ensure a snug fit.

If you're trying to repair a damaged glass by yourself, begin by sanding it until it's smooth and free of paint. You can also use a heat gun to soften any glazing points. After the rabbet has been cleaned the putty knife can be used to press the rope of putty into position. Make sure that the putty has an even thickness and that it presses evenly against the glass frame.

If you are looking for a long-term solution you can choose an epoxy repair instead of replacing. This method requires more effort and takes longer, but it can be more appealing and last longer than a temporary repair.

Condensation

Condensation is among the most frequently encountered double-glazed window problems, but it doesn't necessarily mean that your windows are defective. It's a good thing that your windows show condensation. This means that the double glazing is functioning as it should, keeping out the cold and keeping in the heat.

When you notice condensation developing on the outside of your window, it is actually water vapor coming from the inside of your home that has cooled down and condensed on the surface of the glass. It's quite a natural phenomenon and isn't likely to cause any damage to your windows unless you allow it sit on the surface for a long time.

Internal condensation is often caused by excessive humidity in the room or low internal temperatures, causing cold surfaces like the windows to draw moisture from air that has high dew points (the temperature at which water turns back into liquid). The steam from kettles, showers, and hot pots and saucepans used in cooking can also cause humidity around bathrooms and kitchens.

To avoid condensation, try not to hang wet clothes close to windows. Also, ensure that your uPVC frames have ample air circulation to stop the build-up of moisture. 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 could also try installing one-way air vents on your windows to improve insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, there is likely a problem with your seals or gaskets. This is a task best left to an expert.

Draughts

A double-glazed window that is draughty is an indication that the seal between your glass panes has broken and needs to be replaced. This could affect the insulation in your home, and can increase energy costs.

A window repair service can replace the sealed unit for you, while restoring the efficiency of your windows. They can also upgrade your existing frames with 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 of your double-glazed windows. It's common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to become stiff as they the passage of time. This can be easily corrected by lubricating your locks regularly with a specialized uPVC cleaner.

Having a professional double glazing company perform your repair work will ensure that the work is done correctly. They'll have all the tools necessary to ensure that your window is watertight and fully sealed. They can also fix any damage to the frame so that you can enjoy your new double-glazed window.

Double-glazed windows last a long time and durable, but they may develop issues because of wear and tear or the weather. Call your local double-glazing repair service immediately if you discover any of these problems. You'll be thankful that you did. A well-maintained double glazing installation will give your home 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 spacer or dense gas between. This creates a solid seal to stop heat from escaping through the frame. They are a great method to save energy and decrease your carbon footprint. Double glazing can be plagued by several issues that could affect its performance and longevity. This includes fog, condensation and difficulties to close or open.

If you're having trouble opening your double-glazed windows it could be because of the weather. It could also be due to a problem with the hinges or handles. Wiping them down with cold water and then lubricating them may help ease the problem, but you should contact the company that you purchased windows from as soon as possible to get it fixed.

This is another common problem that is easily fixable. Also, make sure to check the warranty to see what, if any, repairs are covered under this.

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 straightforward solution that can be achieved without the need to replace the whole window.

To fix this problem technicians will drill small holes to vent any moisture between the glass and the window. After the moisture has gone then a new anti-fog coating is applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes, the window might need to be removed before this can be accomplished, but the majority of the time, it can be carried out from the inside of the home.

Mist

Mist can be a big issue for older double glazing, particularly when it happens on the exterior and the interior of the windows. This is caused by a failure in the seal that is designed to hold air and moisture between the two panes. This seal is created when making double-glazed units by sealing both panes with an airtight polysulphide seal or butyl seal around the edges and spacer bar. This is intended to provide insulation and keep the window from leaks. If you have misted double glazed windows, it may be difficult to take off and clean, as you will need to break the hardened seal to clean.

The problem with mist is that it lets moisture to get in, which then results in condensation between the glass panes. The reason for this is that there is a significant difference in temperature between the internal and exterior surfaces of the glass. The moisture is trapped in the gaps, giving the appearance of milky. This can be quite unsightly and it can be a pain to eliminate.

There are several companies that claim that 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 inside. However, this isn't an end-to-end solution and it is far easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit if you are experiencing misting.

It is recommended to keep your windows clean and ventilated regularly. It is also recommended to use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and clean windows with an damp cloth to minimize the accumulation of moisture. If you are unable to avoid the issue, we suggest replacing your double-glazed windows with new A-rated units to improve energy efficiency.

Edit
Pub: 22 Apr 2024 18:57 UTC
Views: 12