Double Glazed Window Repair: 11 Things You're Not Doing
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an excellent investment for your home, however it can be a hassle if it isn't working correctly. 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 an extremely thin gap, which is filled with insulating gas such as argon or krypton. This improves the efficiency of a window's heating.
Broken panes
While double-pane windows are more resistant to breaking than single-pane glass, they are still able to crack or shatter. It is important to repair the broken pane of double glazing as quickly as you can to prevent the loss of energy and moisture.
You can opt for either a temporary repair or more intensive epoxy fix depending on the degree of the crack. A temporary repair can keep cracks from spreading and keep out rain and cold air. A more extensive repair may make the crack stronger and provide a better seal.
To replace a double-pane broken window, take the frame off and place it on an un-slip surface. Install a duct tap grid over the pane in order to prevent any glass fragments from falling during removal. Once the tape has been applied, remove the old double-pane glass from the frame. Next clean the grooves and rabbet using a wire brush, vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth. If needed, take off the wood molding and scrape off any metal or putty before installing the new pane. Apply a silicone caulk to the rabbet and grooves in order to ensure an ideal fit.
If you're fixing a damaged glass by yourself, start by sanding the glass until it's smooth and free of paint. You can also use a heat gun to soften any glazing points. Once the rabbet is cleaned the putty knife can be employed to press putty rope into position. Make sure that the putty is of an even thickness and that it presses equally against the glass and frame.
If you're looking for the long-term solution then you could opt for an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This method requires more effort and a longer wait time but it's more attractive and will last longer than a temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation is a typical issue for double-glazed windows but that doesn't mean they're defective. It's a good thing that your windows are showing signs of condensation. This indicates that double glazing is working exactly as it is supposed to, preventing the cold and retaining the warmth.
If you notice condensation appearing on the outside of your window it is actually water vapor from the inside of your home that has been cooled and condensed onto the surface of the glass. It's a natural process that isn't harmful to your windows unless you leave it on the glass for too long.
The cause of internal condensation is usually too much humidity or low temperatures in the room. This causes cold surfaces, like windows and doors, to draw in moisture that is high dewpoint (the temperature at which water turns into a liquid). Humidity is also inevitable around bathrooms and kitchens due to steam from showers or kettles and hot pans and pots used during cooking.
To prevent condensation, try not to hang wet clothing close to your windows. Also, ensure that your uPVC frames have ample air circulation to prevent the accumulation of moisture. For maximum energy efficiency, also make sure that your double-glazed windows have been properly installed and insulated with the correct gap (6mm). It is also possible to add one-way air vents to your windows to improve 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 an expert.
Draughts
A window that isn't draughty is an indication that the seal between the glass panes of your double-glazing has sprung a leak and is likely to need replacing. This can impact the insulation in your home, and can increase energy bills.
Window repair services can replace your sealed unit, restoring efficiency to your windows. They can also upgrade existing frames with new energy-saving features, like glass units that are filled with argon, as well as thermal spacer bars that reduce heat loss, and reduce your heating bills.
It's also worth checking the locking mechanisms of your double-glazed windows. Older uPVC window locks are known for becoming stiff after a while however it's easy to fix this issue by applying regular oiling with a specialist uPVC cleaning product.
Having a professional double glazing company perform repairs will ensure that the work is done correctly. They'll have the proper tools to make sure that your window is resealed and watertight. They'll also be able to repair any other damage to your frame so you can enjoy your gorgeous new double-glazed window with confidence.
Double glazed windows are long-lasting and durable, but they can sometimes develop problems due to wear and tear or the weather. If you find any of the issues mentioned above, call your local double glazing repair company immediately to have them repaired in the shortest time possible. You'll be happy that you did it. A double glazing installation that's well-maintained will give your house a a tangible feeling of quality and will save your energy costs!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows are comprised of two separate panes, with the spacer or gas in between. This creates an effective seal to stop heat from getting out of the frame. They're an excellent option to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, double glazing may experience a variety of issues that could impact its performance and longevity. These include fog, condensation and being difficult to close or open.
If you're having trouble opening your double-glazed windows it could be because of the weather. windows and doors repairs could also be a issue with the hinges or handles. You can solve the issue by wiping down and lubricating the windows with cold water. Contact the company that supplied you with windows as early as you can to fix them.
This is another issue that is easily fixable. It's always worth checking your warranty to determine whether there are any repairs covered.
Foggy or fogged glass is caused by moisture in the panes. It's usually a sign that the seals aren't functioning properly or the double-glazing system needs to be replaced. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished without having to replace the whole window.
To address this issue the technician will make small holes to release any moisture between the glass and the window. After the moisture has been removed then a new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Sometimes, the window may need to be removed however, in the majority of cases, it can be done within the home.
Mist
Double glazing that is older can have a mist issue in particular when it occurs both in and out of the window. This is because of a weakening of the seal that is designed to keep air and moisture between the two panes. This seal is created when making double-glazed units by sealing both panes using an airtight polysulphide or butyl seal around the edges and spacer bar. This is intended to create insulation and prevent the window from leaks. If you have misted double-glazed windows, it may be difficult to take off and clean up, as you will need to break through the seal to clean.
The issue with mists is that they permit moisture to enter, which leads to condensation between the glass panes. The reason for this is that there is a significant difference in temperature between the inside and exterior glass surfaces. The moisture gets trapped within the gaps, resulting in the appearance of milky. This can be extremely unsightly and is difficult to get rid of.
There are a number of companies that claim they can fix your double-glazed windows that are misting by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals through the holes. Then, they absorb the moisture from within. But, this isn't an effective solution and it's much easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit in the event that you are experiencing misting.
It is recommended to keep your windows clean and ventilated regularly. Use extractor fans to reduce moisture buildup in kitchens and bathrooms. Wipe down windows with a damp cloth to avoid this. If you're unable to completely avoid the issue we suggest replacing your double-glazed units with A-rated ones to improve the efficiency of your energy usage.