Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an excellent investment, but it can also be frustrating when it doesn't perform. Most problems can be repaired and you don't need to replace windows or doors.
Double-glazed windows comprise two glass panels that are separated by an extremely thin gap, which is filled with insulating gas such as Krypton or argon. This increases the thermal efficiency of windows.
Broken panes
Double-pane windows are difficult to break than single-pane glass, they can still break or shatter. If a pane breaks in your double glazing, it's important to repair it quickly to prevent water and energy loss.
Depending on the extent of the crack you may decide to make a temporary fix or opt for more extensive epoxy repair. A temporary repair will help to stop further cracks from occurring 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 broken window, remove the frame and place it on an even surface. Then, place a grid of duct tape over the pane to prevent any glass pieces from falling off when you remove it. After the tape is installed, remove the old double-pane glass out of the frame. Then you can use a wirebrush to clean the grooves and rabbets. You can also vacuum them or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. Remove the wood moldings if necessary and scrape off any metal glazing points or putty prior to putting in the new pane. Apply a silicone caulk over the rabbet and grooves in order to ensure an ideal fit.
If you're looking to fix the cracks in your window yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and clear of paint or gunk. You can also use a heating gun to soften any glazing or putty points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned and sanitized, a putty knife may be employed to press the rope of putty into place. Make sure the putty has an even thickness and is pressed against the glass and the frame in a uniform way.
If you prefer a long-term fix, an epoxy repair is a better option over a replacement. This option is more costly and requires a longer waiting time however, it is also more appealing. It also lasts longer than the temporary fix.
Condensation
Condensation is among the most frequently encountered double-glazed window issues, however it doesn't mean that your windows aren't working properly. The fact that your windows are showing condensation is actually a good indicator that your double glazing is doing what it's supposed to do, keeping the cold out and letting the warmth in.
When you notice condensation developing on the outside of your window, it is actually water vapor from inside of your home that has cooled down 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 reason for condensation inside is usually too much humidity or low temperatures in the room. This creates cold surfaces, such as windows, to attract moisture that is high dewpoint (the temperature at which water turns into liquid). It is also commonplace in kitchens and bathrooms because of steam from kettles or showers and hot pans and pots used during cooking.
To avoid condensation, make sure not to hang wet clothing close to windows. Also, make sure that your uPVC frames are able to provide ample air circulation to avoid the accumulation of moisture. To maximize energy efficiency, you should ensure that double-glazed windows are properly installed and insulated with the correct gap (6mm). You could also try installing one-way air vents on your windows to improve insulation. If you still get condensation, there is likely the issue is with your seals or gaskets. This is a task best left to professionals.
Draughts
A window that isn't draughty is a sign that the seal between the glass panes of your double-glazing has begun to leak, and is likely to need replacing. This could affect the insulation in your home and increase energy bills.
Window repair services will replace your sealed unit, restoring energy efficiency to your windows. They can also upgrade existing frames with new energy-saving features, such glass units that are filled with argon, as well as thermal spacer bars to reduce heat loss, and reduce your heating bills.
It is 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 lubricating them regularly with a specialist uPVC cleaning product.
A professional double glazing company perform the repair will ensure that the work is completed correctly. They'll have the appropriate tools to ensure that your window is sealed and watertight. They'll also be able to repair any other damage to your frame, so you can enjoy your gorgeous new double glazing with confidence.
Double-glazed windows last a long time and hard-wearing, but they may experience issues as a result of wear and tear or weather. Call your local double-glazing repair company immediately if you notice any of these problems. You'll be thankful that you did. upvc window lock repair near me A well-maintained 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 a spacer or dense gas in between. This creates an effective seal to stop heat from getting out of the frame. They're an excellent choice for saving energy and reducing the carbon footprint. However, double glazing can experience a variety of issues that can affect its performance and longevity. This includes condensation, mist and being 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 or handles or mechanism. Cleaning them with cold water and lubricating them can help to alleviate the issue, but you should contact the company that you purchased windows from as soon as possible to get it repaired.
If your windows or doors have dropped or sagged over time, this is another common problem that can be easily fixed by a skilled professional. It is always worth checking your warranty to determine whether any repairs are covered.
Fogged or foggy glass could be caused by moisture in the panes. It's typically a sign of faulty seals or a double-glazing system that needs replacing. This is a simple fix that can be accomplished without having to replace the whole window.
To resolve this issue the technician will drill small holes to vent any moisture between the glass and the window. Once the moisture has been removed the new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Occasionally, the window may require removal prior to this happens, but the majority of the time, it can be done from inside the home.
Mist
Mist can be a huge issue with older double glazing, especially when it is present on the inside and outside of the windows. It is due to an issue with the seal designed to keep air and moisture between the two panes. This seal is constructed during the production of double-glazed units by sealing both panes using an airtight seal made of polysulphide or butyl around the edges and a spacer bar. This seal is designed to stop the window from leaking and to provide insulation. It can be difficult to clean double-glazed windows that have mist as you must break the seal to do this.
The issue with mists is that they permit moisture to penetrate, which leads to condensation between the glass panes. This is due to a large difference in temperature between the external and internal surfaces of the glass. The moisture is then trapped in the gaps and causes a milky white appearance. It can be very unsightly and it can be difficult to eliminate.
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 through the holes which then absorbs the moisture from within. It's not a permanent fix and it's easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit.
It is important to keep your windows clean and conditioned regularly. Use extractor fans to reduce the amount of moisture that accumulates in bathrooms and kitchens. Clean windows with a wet cloth to avoid this. If you're unable to avoid the issue completely, we recommend replacing the double-glazed units you have with A-rated ones to improve the efficiency of energy.