Double Glazed Window Repair: 11 Thing You're Forgetting To Do
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an excellent investment, but it can also be frustrating when it fails to perform. Most problems can be repaired and you do not have to replace windows or doors.
Double-glazed windows comprise two glass panels separated by a very thin gap, filled with insulating gas such as argon or krypton. This increases a window's thermal efficiency.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are more difficult to break than single panes of glass, however they are still susceptible to shattering or crack. If a pane breaks in your double glazing, it's crucial to fix it as soon as possible to prevent water and energy loss.
Depending on the severity of the crack, you may decide to fix it with a temporary fix or go for more extensive epoxy repair. A temporary repair can help prevent further cracking and can protect against cold and rain. A more extensive repair can reinforce the crack and create a better seal.
To replace a double-pane broken window, take the frame off and place it on a flat surface. Apply a grid of duct tap over the pane in order to prevent any glass fragments from falling off during removal. Once the tape is secured, pull the old double pane glass from the frame. Then clean the rabbet and grooves using a wire brush, vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth. If needed, take off the wood molding and scrape off all putty or metal points before installing the new pane. Apply silicone caulk in the rabbets and grooves to ensure a tight fit.
If you're repairing a cracked glass by yourself, start by sanding the glass until it's smooth and free of paint. You could also use a heat gun to soften any glazing points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned and sanitized, a putty knife may be used to press a rope of putty into place. Make sure the putty has a uniform thickness and presses against the glass and frame evenly.
If you prefer a long-term fix an epoxy repair is a better choice over a replacement. Repair My Windows And Doors is more expensive and requires a longer waiting time however it can be more attractive. It will also last longer than an immediate repair.
Condensation
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows however, it doesn't mean that they're defective. It's good to know that your windows show condensation. This means that your double glazing is working as it is supposed to, preventing the cold and retaining the heat.
It's actually water vapour from your home which condenses on the glass's surface when you see condensation. It's a normal phenomenon and it's not something that's going to cause any harm to your windows unless you allow it remain on the glass for too long.
Internal condensation is often caused by high humidity in the room or by low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces such as windows to attract moisture from the air with high dew points (the temperature at which water transforms back into liquid). It is also commonplace in kitchens and bathrooms because of steam from showers or kettles as well as hot pots and pans used during cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothing near windows and make sure your uPVC frames are ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. You should also ensure that your double glazed windows are correctly insulated and installed with the proper gap (6mm is best) to ensure maximum energy efficiency. You can also try installing one-way air vents on your windows to further improve insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, there's probably a problem with gaskets or seals and this is definitely an issue that requires the expertise of an expert.
Draughts
A draughty double-glazed window is an indication that the seal between your glass panes has failed and needs to be replaced. This will affect the insulation of your home and can result in an increase in energy costs which is why it's crucial to act as soon as you notice the issue.
A window repair service can replace the sealed unit for you, and restore the effectiveness of your windows. They can also upgrade existing frames with energy-efficient features, including 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. Older uPVC window locks are known for becoming stiff over time however, it's simple to fix this by lubricating them regularly with an expert uPVC cleaning product.
Having a professional double glazing company perform repairs will ensure that the process is completed properly. They'll have the proper tools to make sure that your window is completely resealed and watertight. They'll also be able fix any other damages to your frame so you can enjoy your stunning new double-glazed window with confidence.
Double-glazed windows last a long time and hard-wearing, but they can sometimes develop problems due to wear and tear or weather. Call your local double-glazing repair company as soon as you notice any of these issues. You'll be happy you did it - a double glazing installation well-repaired will give your home a tangible feeling of quality and will save you money on energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows are made up of two separate panes with the spacer or gas between. This creates a solid seal to prevent heat from getting out of the frame. They are a great method to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, double glazing can have a range of issues that can affect its performance and longevity. This includes condensation, mist and being difficult to open or close.
If you're having trouble opening your double-glazed windows, it could be due to the weather. It could also be due to a issue with the hinges or handles. Cleaning them with cold water and lubricating them can solve the issue, however you should contact the manufacturer that you purchased windows from as soon as possible to have it fixed.
If your doors or windows have become sagging or dropped over time, this is another frequent 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 and foggy glass can be caused by moisture between the panes and is usually a sign of faulty seals or an old double-glazing unit that requires replacement. It's a relatively straightforward fix and you'll often complete the task without having to replace the entire window, which can save you money.
To fix this problem technicians will drill small holes to vent any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the rest the window. Once the moisture is gone the new anti-fog coating is applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes, the window will need to be removed prior to this can be accomplished however most of the time, it can be carried out within the home.
Mist
Mist can be a huge 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 that is designed to keep moisture and air between two panes. The seal is made during the manufacturing of double-glazed units by sealing the two panes using an airtight polysulphide or butyl seal around the edges and spacer bar. This is meant to provide insulation and keep the window from leaking. It can be difficult to clean double-glazed windows that have mist, as you need to break the seal to do so.
The issue with mists is that they allow moisture to get in which causes condensation between the glass panes. This is because there is huge differences in temperature between the internal and external surfaces of the glass. The moisture is trapped in the gaps, giving a milky appearance. It can be very unsightly and is difficult to eliminate.
Some companies claim that they can repair misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals through the holes that absorb moisture from the inside. But, this isn't a permanent solution to the problem and it is much more efficient to replace the entire double-glazed unit in the event that you are experiencing misting.
It is important to keep your windows clean and conditioned regularly. It's also an excellent idea to install extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and clean windows with an damp cloth to minimize the accumulation of moisture. If you're unable to avoid the issue completely, we recommend replacing your double-glazed units with new A-rated ones to improve energy efficiency.