The Most Common Mistakes People Make Using Double Glazed Window Repair
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can be a fantastic investment for your home, however it can be a pain when it isn't working correctly. Fortunately, most issues can be fixed and you don't have to replace your doors or windows.
Double glazed windows consist of two glass panels separated by a very thin gap, which is filled with insulating gas, such as argon or krypton. This helps increase the thermal efficiency of windows.
Broken panes
Double-pane windows are difficult to break than single-pane glass, they can still break or shatter. It is important to repair a broken pane in double glazing as quickly as possible in order to avoid loss of energy and moisture.
You can choose a temporary repair or a more intense epoxy fix based on the extent of your crack. A temporary repair will help to stop further cracks from occurring and keep out the cold and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and will provide the seal with a stronger one.
To replace a broken double-pane window, first remove the frame from the sash, and then set it on a table. Install a grid of duct tape over the pane in order to prevent any glass fragments from falling during removal. Once the tape is in place, pull the old double pane glass out of the frame. Then employ a wirebrush to clean the grooves and rabbets. You can also vacuum them or wipe them with a damp cloth. Remove the wood moldings if necessary and scrape off all putty or metal glazing points prior to installing the new pane. Finally, apply a silicone caulk over the rabbet and grooves to ensure a secure fit.
If you're looking to fix damaged windows yourself, begin by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and free of gunk or paint. Heating guns can be used to soften any putty or glazing. Once the rabbet has been cleaned then you can use a putty blade to force ropes into place. Make sure the putty is an even thickness and is pressed against the glass and the frame evenly.
If you want a long-term solution, you can opt for an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This is more expensive and will require a longer wait time however it can be more attractive. It also lasts longer than the temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most frequently encountered double-glazed window issues, but it doesn't necessarily mean your windows are defective. It's a good thing your windows display condensation. This indicates that double glazing is working exactly as it is supposed to, keeping out the cold while allowing the warmth.
It's actually water vapour from your home which condenses on the glass's surface when you see condensation. It's a natural phenomenon that won't cause harm to your windows, unless you leave it on the glass for too long.
Internal condensation is usually caused by excessive humidity in the room or the low internal temperatures, causing cold surfaces like the windows to draw moisture from air that has a high dew point (the temperature at which water transforms back into liquid). Humidity is also inevitable around kitchens and bathrooms because of steam from showers or kettles and hot pans and pots that are used for cooking.
Avoid hanging wet clothes near windows and make sure your uPVC frames are properly ventilated to avoid moisture buildup. It is also important to ensure that your double-glazed windows are properly insulated and fitted, with the right gap (6mm is best) to maximize energy efficiency. You can also add one-way air vents on your windows to improve insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, however, then there's likely a problem with the seals or gaskets and this is definitely something that should be handled by an expert.
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 it's likely to require replacement. This can affect the insulation of your home and increase the cost of energy.
Window repair services can replace your sealed unit, restoring energy efficiency to your windows. They can also upgrade your existing frames to incorporate energy-saving features, such as gas-filled argon glass units with thermal spacer bars, which reduce the loss of heat and reduce your heating costs.
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 is common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to stiffen with age. This can be easily corrected by lubricating the locks regularly using a specialist uPVC cleaner.
Having a professional double glazing company perform the repair will ensure that the repair is completed properly. They will have the right tools to ensure that your window is completely sealed and watertight. They can also fix any damage to the frame so that you can take advantage of your new double glazing.
Double-glazed windows are durable and long-lasting, however they can experience issues due to weather or wear and wear and tear. Call your local double-glazing repair service whenever you spot any of these problems. You'll be glad you did - a well-repaired double glazing installation will give your home that tangible sense of quality, and it will also help you save money on your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows are made up of two panes that have a spacer, air or dense gas between them to make an effective seal that prevents heat from passing through the frame. They are a great way to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint. However, double-glazed windows can experience a variety of issues that could impact its performance and durability. This includes condensation, mist, and difficult to open or close.
The difficulty in opening your double-glazed windows could be due to the weather, or it might be a fault with the hinges, handles or mechanism. Wiping them down with cold water and lubricating them can help to alleviate the issue, but you should contact the manufacturer that you purchased windows from as soon as possible to get it fixed.
This is a common issue which can be easily fixed. It is always worth checking your warranty to determine if there are any repairs covered.
Foggy and fogged glass can be caused by condensation between the panes. It's typically a sign of faulty seals or a double-glazing unit that requires replacement. It's a relatively straightforward fix and you can often do it without having to replace the entire window, which will save you money.
To address this issue the technician will make small holes to release any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the window. After the moisture has gone the new anti-fog coating will be applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes, windows require removal but, in most instances, it is done from within the home.
Mist
Double glazing that is older may be prone to mist, especially when it occurs both within and outside the window. This is due to a failure of the seal designed to keep moisture and air between the two panes. When making double-glazed units, this seal is created by sealing both panes using an airtight butyl or polysulphide seal around the edges of the glass and a the spacer bar. This is designed to protect the window from heat and prevent the window from being leaking. It can be difficult to clean windows with mist because you have to break the seal in order to do this.
The problem 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 internal and exterior glass's surfaces. The moisture is then trapped within the spaces and gives an appearance of milky white. This can be quite ugly and can be a pain to eliminate.
Some companies claim that they can repair misting double-glazed windows through drilling holes into the unit and injecting a chemical through the holes, which absorbs moisture from the inside. But, this isn't an end-to-end solution and it is far easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit if you are experiencing misting.
The easiest method to avoid misty double glazing is by making sure you have adequate ventilation and regularly cleaning your windows. Use extractor fans to reduce moisture buildup in kitchens and bathrooms. Clean windows using a moist cloth to prevent this. If commercial window repairs are unable to avoid the problem, we recommend replacing your double-glazed windows with A-rated windows to increase energy efficiency.