Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is a great investment for your home, but it can be a hassle if it isn't working properly. Fortunately, most issues are fixable and you do not have to replace your doors or windows.
Double glazed windows consist of two glass panels that are separated by an extremely thin gap, which is filled with insulating gas such as Krypton or argon. This helps increase the thermal efficiency of windows.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are less likely to break than single panes of glass, but they can still shatter or crack. If a pane is broken in your double glazing, it's crucial to repair it quickly to prevent moisture and energy losses.
Depending on the degree of the crack, you can choose to make an interim fix or opt for an intensive epoxy repair. A temporary repair can stop further cracks from occurring and protect against cold and rain. A more extensive repair could strengthen the crack and provide more secure seal.
To replace a double-pane broken window, remove the frame and place it on an even surface. Apply a grid of duct tape over the pane in order to prevent any glass fragments from falling off during removal. Once the tape has been removed, take the old double-pane glass out of the frame. Then, clean upvc frames and grooves using a wire brush, vacuum or wipe them with a damp cloth. Remove the wood molding if needed and scrape off any metal glazing points before installing the new pane. Apply a silicone caulk to the rabbet and grooves in order to ensure an ideal fit.
If you want to repair a cracked window yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and clear of gunk or paint. You could also use a heat gun to soften any glazing points. After the rabbet is cleaned and dried, you can use a blade for a putty to press ropes into place. Make sure that the putty has a uniform thickness, and that it presses evenly against the glass frame.
If you prefer a long-term fix an epoxy repair is a better choice than a replacement. This option is more costly and has a longer waiting period however it can be more attractive. It will also last longer than the temporary fix.
Condensation
Condensation is among the most frequently encountered double-glazed window problems, but it doesn't mean that your windows aren't working properly. The fact that your windows show 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 that condenses on the surface of your glass when you notice condensation. It's quite a natural phenomenon and it's not going to cause any damage to your windows unless you let it sit on the glass for a long time.
The reason for condensation inside is usually a lack of humidity or low temperatures in the room. This creates cold surfaces, such as windows, to attract moisture that is high in dewpoint (the temperature at which water turns into a liquid). Humidity is also inevitable around bathrooms and kitchens due to steam from kettles or showers and hot pots and pans that are used for cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothing near windows and make sure your uPVC frames are well ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture. To maximize energy efficiency, you must be sure that your double-glazed windows are installed correctly and insulated with the correct gap (6mm). It is also possible to add one-way air vents to your windows to increase the insulation. If you're still experiencing condensation, however, then there's probably problems 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 could affect the insulation in your home and increase energy bills.
A window repair service can replace the sealed unit for you, and restore the efficiency of your windows. They can also replace existing frames with new energy-saving features, like argon-filled glass units and thermal spacer bars that reduce heat loss, and reduce your heating bills.
It is also worth checking the locking mechanisms on your double-glazed windows. Older uPVC window locks are infamous for becoming stiff after a while however, it's simple to fix this issue by lubricating them regularly with a specialized uPVC cleaning product.
A professional double glazing company will ensure that the repair is done properly. They will have the right tools to make sure that your window is resealed and watertight. They can also repair any damage to the frame so you can take advantage of your new double glazing.
Double-glazed windows are tough and long-lasting, but they can develop issues due to weather conditions or wear and tear. Call your local double-glazing repair service whenever you discover any of these issues. You'll be glad you did it - a double glazing installation that is repaired properly will give your home a a tangible feeling of quality, and will also save you money on energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows comprise two separate panes with an air spacer or dense gas between them to form an effective seal that stops heat from passing through the frame. They're a great option to save energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, double-glazed windows can have a range of issues that can affect its performance and endurance. 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. Wiping them down with cold water and lubricating them may help solve the issue, however you must contact the company you bought windows from as quickly as you can to get it repaired.
This is a common issue that can be fixed easily. Again, it's worth checking the warranty to determine what, if any, repairs are covered under this warranty.
Fogged and foggy glass can be caused by condensation between the panes. It's typically the result of seals that are not working or an old double-glazing unit that requires replacement. It's a relatively straightforward fix and you can often complete the task without the need to replace the entire window, which can save you money.
To address this issue A technician will make tiny holes to vent out any moisture between the glass panes and other parts of the window. When the moisture is gone then a new anti-fog coating is applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes, the window may require removal, but in most cases, it can be done within the home.
Mist
Mist can be a major problem with older double glazing, specifically when it happens on the outside and inside of the windows. This is due to a failure of the seal that is designed to block air and moisture between the two panes. This seal is constructed during the production of double-glazed units by sealing the two panes using an airtight polysulphide or butyl seal around the edges and a spacer bar. This is intended to protect the window from heat and prevent the window from leaking. It isn't easy to clean misted double-glazed windows, as you need to break the seal in order to do this.
The problem with mists is that they permit moisture to get in and cause condensation between the glass panes. This is because there is huge differences in temperature between the internal and external surfaces of the glass. The water is then absorbed in the gaps and causes the appearance of a milky white. This can be extremely unsightly, and can be difficult to remove.
Some companies claim they can fix misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes in the unit and injecting chemicals through the holes that absorb moisture from the inside. But, this isn't an effective solution to the issue and it's much easier to replace the whole double-glazed unit if suffering from misting.
It is best to keep your windows clean and ventilated regularly. It's also recommended to use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and clean windows with a damp cloth to reduce the build-up of moisture. If you are unable to avoid the problem, we recommend that you replace your double-glazed windows with A-rated windows to increase the efficiency of your energy bills.