10 Untrue Answers To Common Double Glazed Window Repair Questions: Do You Know Which Ones?
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can be a fantastic investment for your home, however it can be a pain when it fails to function correctly. Most issues can be addressed and you don't have to replace doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows are made up of two glass panes that are separated by a thin gap. The gap is then filled with an insulating gas, such as argon. This increases a window's efficiency.
Broken panes
While double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single pane glass, they may crack or shatter. When a pane becomes broken in your double glazing, it's crucial to repair it immediately to avoid water and energy loss.
Depending on the severity of the crack, you may decide to use an interim fix or go for more extensive repair using epoxy. A temporary repair can help prevent further cracking, and 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, remove the frame and place it on a flat surface. Apply a grid of duct tap over the pane to prevent any glass fragments from falling off during removal. Once the tape is in place remove the double pane glass out of the frame. Then, use a wirebrush to clean the rabbets and grooves. You can also vacuum or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. Remove the wood moldings if necessary and scrape away all putty or metal glazing points before installing the new pane. Finally, apply a silicone caulk to the grooves and rabbet to ensure a secure fit.
If you're trying to repair a damaged glass by yourself, begin by sanding the glass until it's smooth and free of paint. Heating guns can be used to soften any glazing or putty points. After the rabbet is cleaned then you can use a putty knife to press ropes into place. Make sure the putty has a uniform thickness and is pressed against the glass and frame evenly.
If you want the long-term solution then you could opt for an epoxy repair instead of replacing. This requires more work and takes longer however it is more attractive and will last longer than a short-term repair.
Condensation
Condensation is a typical issue with double-glazed windows but that doesn't mean they 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 keep the cold out and letting warmth in.
It's actually water vapour from your home which condenses on the surface of your glass when you notice condensation. It's a normal phenomenon and it's not something that's likely to cause harm to your windows unless you allow it sit on the surface for a long time.
Internal condensation is usually caused by high humidity in the room or low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces like the windows to attract moisture from the air that has high dew points (the temperature at which water changes into liquid). The steam from showers, kettles and hot pots and saucepans used in cooking can also cause a lot of humidity around kitchens and bathrooms.
Avoid hanging wet clothing near windows and make sure your uPVC frames are ventilated to avoid moisture buildup. To ensure maximum energy efficiency, you must also make sure that your double-glazed windows have been constructed correctly and have the proper gap (6mm). You can also try installing one-way air vents on your windows to further improve insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, it's likely the issue is with your gaskets or seals. This is a job best left to a professional.
Draughts
A double-glazed window that is draughty is an indication that the seal between the glass panes is broken and will require to be replaced. This can impact the insulation in your home, and can increase energy costs.
A window repair service can replace the sealed unit for you, while restoring the effectiveness of your windows. They can also upgrade your existing frames to incorporate energy-saving features, such as argon gas filled glass units that have thermal spacer bars. This reduce the loss of heat and reduce the cost of heating.
Draughts can also be caused by problems with the locking mechanisms of double-glazed windows and doors, so it's important to have these checked out. It's normal for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to stiffen with age. This can be easily corrected by lubricating the locks regularly with a specialized uPVC cleaner.
A professional double glazing business will ensure that the repair is done correctly. They will have the right tools to ensure that your window is resealed and watertight. They can also fix any damage to the frame so that you can enjoy your new double glazing.
Double-glazed windows last a long time and hard-wearing, but they can sometimes develop problems due to wear and tear or weather. If you spot any of the issues mentioned above, call your local double glazing repair service right away to get them fixed as soon as possible. You'll be glad you did it - a double glazing installation that is well-repaired will give your home an immediate sense of quality and will save you money on energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows consist of two separate panes with a spacer, air or dense gas between them to create an effective seal that prevents heat passing through the frame. They are a great way to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, double-glazed windows can have a range of issues that may affect its performance and durability. These include fog, condensation, and being difficult to close or open.
If you are having trouble opening your double-glazed windows it could be because of the weather. It could also be a problem with the hinges or handles. Wiping them clean with cold water and then lubricating them may help solve the issue, however you should contact the company you bought windows from as quickly as possible to have it repaired.
If your windows or doors have become sagging or dropped over time, this is a common problem that can be fixed by an experienced professional. It is always worth checking your warranty to see whether there are any repairs covered.
Foggy and fogged glass can be caused by moisture between the panes and is usually an indication of damaged seals or a double-glazing unit that needs to be replaced. It's a relatively straightforward fix and often you can do it without the need to replace the entire window, which will save you money.
To fix this issue technicians will drill tiny holes to vent any moisture between the glass panes and the remainder of the window. After the moisture has gone, a new anti-fog coating will be applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes, windows need to be taken off but, in most instances, it can be done within the home.
Mist
Double glazing that is older can have a mist issue, especially if it occurs both inside and outside the window. It is caused by a failure in the seal designed to keep air and moisture out between the two panes. When making upvc window repairs near me -glazed units, this seal is created by sealing both panes using an airtight butyl or polysulphide 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 provide insulation. If you have misted double-glazed windows, it may be difficult to remove and clean up, as you'll have to break the hardened seal to clean.
The problem with mists is that they permit moisture to enter, which leads to condensation between the glass panes. This is due to an enormous temperature difference between the external and internal surfaces of the glass. The moisture is trapped in the spaces, creating an appearance of milky. This can be very unattractive, and can be difficult to get rid of.
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 into the holes which then absorbs the moisture inside. It's not an end-to-end solution and it's much easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit.
The easiest way to avoid double glazing that is smudgey is by keeping a good level of ventilation and cleaning your windows regularly. Use extractor fans to reduce moisture buildup in kitchens and bathrooms. Wipe down windows with a wet cloth to prevent this. If you are unable to eliminate the problem completely, we recommend replacing your double-glazed units with A-rated ones to improve the efficiency of energy.