5 Common Myths About Double Glazed Window Repair You Should Stay Clear Of
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an excellent investment, but it can also be frustrating when it fails to perform. Most issues can be addressed and you don't have to replace doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows comprise two glass panels that are separated by a very thin gap that is filled with an insulating gas such as Krypton or argon. This increases the efficiency of a window's heating.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are harder to break than single panes of glass but they can still shatter or break. When a pane becomes broken in your double glazing, it's important to repair it immediately to prevent moisture and energy losses.
Depending on the severity of the crack, you may choose to make an interim fix or go for more extensive repair using epoxy. A temporary repair will help to prevent further cracking and keep out rain and cold air. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and provide the seal with a stronger one.
To replace a double-pane damaged window, take the frame off and place it on a flat surface. Then, place a grid of duct tape on the pane to prevent any glass pieces from falling off when you remove it. Once the tape is secured, pull the old double pane glass off of the frame. Then employ a wirebrush to clean the grooves and rabbets. You can also vacuum or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. If needed, remove the wood molding and scrape away all metal or putty before installing the new pane. Apply silicone caulk into the rabbets and grooves to ensure a tight fit.
If you're looking to fix a cracked window yourself, begin by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and free of gunk or paint. You can also use a heating gun to soften any putty or glazing points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned then you can use a putty blade to force a rope into place. Make sure the putty has uniform in thickness and presses against the glass and frame evenly.
If you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time you can choose an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This option is more costly and requires a longer waiting time however, it is also more appealing. It also lasts longer than an immediate repair.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common double glazed window problems, but it doesn't mean that your windows aren't working properly. The fact that your windows are showing condensation is actually a good indication that your double glazing is doing what it's supposed do, keeping cold out and letting the warmth in.
If you notice condensation appearing on the outside of your window, it is actually water vapor coming from the inside of your home that has cooled down and condensed onto the surface of the glass. It's a normal phenomenon and it's not likely to cause any damage to your windows unless you allow it remain on the glass for a long time.
Internal condensation is usually caused by high humidity in the room or the low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces like the windows to attract moisture from the air with a high dew point (the temperature at which water transforms back into liquid). The humidity is also a common occurrence in kitchens and bathrooms because of steam from kettles or showers as well as hot pots and pans used during cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothes close to windows and ensure that your uPVC frames are well ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture. To ensure maximum energy efficiency, also make sure that your double-glazed windows are properly installed and insulated with the proper gap (6mm). You could also consider adding one-way air vents to your windows to increase insulation. If you're still experiencing condensation, it's likely the issue is with your seals or gaskets. This is a job that should be left to a professional.
Draughts
A double-glazed window that is draughty is an indication that the seal between the glass panes has broken and will require to be replaced. This can impact the insulation of your home and also increase energy bills.
A window repair service will replace the sealed unit for you, and restore the effectiveness of your windows. They can also replace existing frames with energy-saving features, such glass units filled with argon and thermal spacer bars that will reduce heat loss, and reduce your heating bills.
It's also worth examining the locking mechanisms on your double-glazed windows. It's normal for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to stiffen with age. This is easily fixed by lubricating your locks regularly with a specialist uPVC cleaner.
A professional double glazing company perform the repair will ensure that the repair is completed correctly. They will have the tools needed to ensure that your window is watertight and fully sealed. They'll also be able to repair any other damages to your frame so you can enjoy your stunning new double glazing with confidence.
Double-glazed windows are tough and long-lasting, however they can experience issues due to weather conditions or wear and wear and tear. If you find any of the issues mentioned above, call your local double glazing repair company immediately to have them repaired as soon as you can. You'll be glad you did - a well-repaired double glazing installation will give your home the tangible impression of quality, and will also reduce your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two separate panes with an air spacer or dense gas between. This creates an effective seal that stops heat from escaping through the frame. They are a great method to save energy and decrease the carbon footprint of your home. However, double glazing may experience a variety of issues that may affect its performance and durability. This includes condensation, mist, and difficult to open or close.
Inability to open your double-glazed windows could be due to the weather or it could be a problem with the hinges, handles or mechanism. Cleaning them with cold water and lubricating them can ease the problem, but you should contact the company you bought your windows from as soon as possible to have it fixed.
If your windows or doors have sagged or dropped over time, this is another common problem that can be easily fixed by a skilled professional. It is a good idea to check your warranty to determine if there are any repairs covered.
Foggy and fogged glass can be caused by moisture in the panes and is usually the result of seals that are not working or a double-glazing unit that needs to be replaced. It's a fairly simple fix and you'll often get it done without the need to replace the entire window, which will save you money.
To resolve this issue, a technician will drill small holes to vent any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the window. When the moisture is gone, a new anti-fog coating is applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes, the window will require removal prior to this can be accomplished, but most of the time it can be carried out from the inside of the home.
Mist
Double glazing that is older can have a mist issue in particular if it occurs both in and out of the window. It is due to an issue with the seal that is designed to hold air and moisture between the two panes. In the production of 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. Repair My Windows And Doors is designed to create insulation and prevent the window from leaking. It isn't easy to clean double-glazed windows that have mist, as you need to break the seal in order to do this.
The issue with mist is that it allows moisture to enter, which ultimately results in condensation between the panes of glass. The reason is that there is a significant difference in temperature between the internal and exterior surfaces of the glass. The moisture is trapped in the spaces, creating an appearance of milky. This can be very unsightly, and can be difficult to remove.
There are several companies who claim they can fix your double-glazed windows that are misting by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals into the holes. Then, they absorb the moisture within. But, this isn't an effective solution to the issue and it is far easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit if suffering from misting.
It is recommended to keep your windows clean and well-ventilated regularly. Make use of extractor fans to minimize the amount of moisture that accumulates in bathrooms and kitchens. Clean windows with a wet cloth to avoid this. If you're unable to prevent the issue, we suggest that you replace your double-glazed windows with new A-rated windows to increase energy efficiency.