20 Things You Need To Know About Double Glazed Window Repair
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is a great investment, but it can be frustrating when it doesn't perform. Luckily, the majority of issues can be fixed and you don't have to replace your doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes separated by a very thin gap. The gap is then filled with an insulating gas, like the gas argon. This improves the efficiency of windows.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are less likely to break than single panes of glass however they are still susceptible to shattering or break. When a pane becomes broken in your double glazing, it's important to fix it as soon as possible to prevent moisture and energy losses.
You can opt for a temporary repair or a more extensive epoxy fix based on the degree of the crack. A temporary repair can prevent further cracking and can protect against cold and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack, and will provide a stronger seal.
To replace a double-pane broken window, take the frame off and place it on an un-slip surface. Apply a grid of duct tap over the pane to stop glass fragments from falling off during removal. Once the tape is in place, pull the old double pane glass off of the frame. Then employ a wirebrush to clean the rabbets and grooves. You can also vacuum them or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. If needed, take off the wood molding and scrape off all metal or putty before installing the replacement pane. Then, apply upvc window hinges to the grooves and rabbet to ensure an ideal fit.
If you're fixing a damaged glass yourself, start by sanding the glass until it's smooth and free of paint. The use of heat guns is to soften any glazing or putty points. Once the rabbet is cleaned the putty knife can be employed to press the rope of putty into position. Make sure that the putty is an even thickness and press against the glass and the frame evenly.
If you're looking for a longer-term fix, an epoxy repair is a better choice over replacing it. This option requires more work and a longer time to wait but it's more appealing and will last much longer than a short-term repair.
Condensation
Condensation is among the most frequently encountered double-glazed window problems, but it doesn't necessarily mean your windows are defective. The fact that your windows are showing condensation is actually a positive indicator that your double glazing is doing what it's supposed to do, keeping cold out and letting the warmth in.
If you notice condensation appearing on the outside of your windows, it is actually water vapor from inside of your home that has been cooled and condensed on the surface of the glass. It's quite a natural phenomenon and it's not something that's going to cause any harm to your windows unless you let it sit on the glass for a long time.
Internal condensation is usually caused by too much humidity in the room or by low internal temperatures, causing cold surfaces like the windows to attract moisture from the air that has a high dew point (the temperature at which water transforms back into a liquid). The steam from kettles, showers, and hot pots and saucepans used in cooking can also cause humidity around bathrooms and kitchens.
Do not hang wet clothes close to windows, and make sure your uPVC frames are ventilated to avoid moisture buildup. To maximize energy efficiency, you should be sure that your double-glazed windows have been properly installed and insulated with the correct gap (6mm). You can also add one-way air vents to your windows to improve insulation. If you're still getting condensation, however, then there's likely an issue with the gaskets or seals and this is definitely a job for a professional.
Draughts
A window that is drafty is a sign that the seal between the glass panes of your double glazing has started to leak and is likely to need replacing. This can affect the insulation in your home, and can increase energy bills.
A window repair service will replace the sealed unit for you, and restore the efficiency of your windows. They can also modify your existing frames to incorporate energy-saving features, like argon gas filled glass units with thermal spacer bars that will reduce heat loss and lower your heating bills.
Draughts can also be caused by issues with the locking mechanisms of your double glazed windows and doors, so it's important to have these checked. Older uPVC window locks are infamous for becoming stiff with time however, it's simple to fix this by applying regular oiling with a specialized uPVC cleaning product.
Having a professional double glazing business to complete your repair work will ensure that the work is done correctly. They'll have the proper tools to ensure that your window is completely sealed and watertight. They can also fix any damage to the frame so that you can enjoy your new double glazing.
Double glazed windows are long-lasting and durable, but they may experience issues because of wear and tear or weather. If you notice any of these issues contact your local double glazing repair service right away to fix them in the shortest time possible. You'll be glad you did - a well-repaired double glazing installation will give your house that tangible sense of quality, and it will also help you save money on your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows consist of two separate panes with an air spacer or dense gas in between. This creates a solid seal to stop heat from getting out of the frame. They are a great way to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, double glazing may experience a variety of issues that could impact its performance and durability. These include 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 down with cold water and then lubricating them can alleviate the issue, but you should contact the company that you purchased windows from as quickly as possible to get it repaired.
If your doors or windows have sagged or dropped over time, this is a frequent issue that can be fixed by a skilled professional. Also, make sure to check the warranty to determine what repairs are covered under this.
Fogged or foggy glass could be caused by moisture in the panes. It's usually a sign of faulty seals or an old double-glazing unit that requires replacement. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished without the need to replace the entire window.
To fix this problem the technician will drill small holes to vent any moisture between the glass and the rest the window. Once the moisture is gone then a new anti-fog coating will be applied and the window sealed. Occasionally, the window may need to be removed prior to this can be accomplished, but the majority of the time, it is done from inside the home.
Mist
Double glazing that is older can be prone to mist in particular if it occurs both in and out of the window. It is due to an issue with the seal designed to prevent air and moisture out between the two panes. When making double-glazed units, this seal is created by sealing both panes using an airtight butyl or polysulphide seal around the edges of the glass and the spacer bar. This is intended to protect the window from heat and prevent the window from leaking. It isn't easy to clean windows with mist, as you need to break the seal in order to clean them.
The problem with mists is that they allow moisture to penetrate and cause condensation between the glass panes. The reason for this is that there is a big difference in temperature between the inside and exterior glass surfaces. The moisture is then trapped in the spaces and creates a milky white appearance. This can be very unsightly, and can be difficult to remove.
Some companies claim that they can fix misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemical through the holes that absorb moisture from the inside. However, this is not an effective solution to the issue and it is far easier to replace the whole double-glazed unit if you are experiencing misting.
The best method to avoid misty double glazing is maintaining a high level of ventilation and regularly cleaning your windows. Make use of extractor fans to minimize moisture buildup in bathrooms and kitchens. Clean windows using a moist cloth to prevent this. If you are unable to eliminate the problem completely we suggest replacing the double-glazed units you have with A-rated ones to improve energy efficiency.