Double Glazed Window Repairs

Double glazing is an investment that is worth it, but can be frustrating when it fails to work. 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 a thin gap, filled with an insulating gas such as argon or krypton. This helps increase a window's thermal efficiency.

Broken panes

Double-pane windows are difficult to break than single pane glass, they are still able to crack or shatter. It is important to repair the broken pane of double glazing as soon as you can to prevent moisture and energy loss.

You can opt for a temporary repair or a more intensive epoxy fix depending on the severity of your crack. A temporary repair can help prevent further cracking and can protect against rain and cold air. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and create a stronger seal.

To replace a damaged double-pane windows, first remove the frame from the sash and place it on a table. Install a duct tap grid over the pane in order to stop glass fragments from falling off during removal. Once the tape has been applied, remove the old double-pane glass from the frame. Then employ a wirebrush to clean the rabbets and grooves. You can also vacuum them or wipe them clean with a damp cloth. If needed, remove the wood molding and scrape off all metal or putty before installing the replacement pane. Apply silicone caulk into the grooves and rabbets to ensure a tight fit.

If you're planning to repair damaged windows yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and free of gunk or paint. Heat guns can be used to soften any glazing or putty points. Once the rabbet has been cleaned, you can use a blade for a putty to press a rope into place. Make sure the putty has an even thickness and press against the glass and frame in a uniform way.

If you are looking for a long-term solution then you could opt for an epoxy repair instead of a replacement. This option is more costly and has a longer waiting period, but can be more attractive. It will also last longer than the temporary repair.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most frequent double-glazed window problems, but it doesn't necessarily mean your windows are defective. It's good to know that your windows display condensation. This indicates that the double glazing is functioning just as it is supposed to, preventing the cold while allowing the heat.

When you see condensation forming 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 normal phenomenon and isn't likely to cause harm to your windows unless you let it remain on the glass for a long time.

Internal condensation is usually caused by too much humidity in the room or by low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces such as windows to attract moisture from the air that has a high dew point (the temperature at which water turns back into liquid). The steam from showers, kettles, and repairers hot pots and the cooking pans can also cause a lot of humidity around bathrooms and kitchens.

To avoid condensation, make sure not to hang wet clothes close to your windows. Also, ensure that your upvc double glazed frames are able to provide ample air circulation to prevent the build-up of moisture. You should also ensure that your double-glazed windows are properly insulated and fitted with the correct gap (6mm is the ideal) for optimum energy efficiency. You can also install one-way air vents to your windows to improve insulation. If you're still experiencing condensation, it's likely a problem with your seals or gaskets. This is a task that should be left to an expert.

Draughts

A draughty window is a sign that the seal between the glass panes of your double-glazing has begun to leak and is likely to require replacement. This will affect the insulation of your home and could cause an increase in your energy bills which is why it's crucial to act fast when you notice this issue.

Window repair services can replace your sealed unit, restoring efficiency to your windows. They can also modify your existing frames to incorporate new energy-saving features, like gas filled argon glass units with thermal spacer bars. This will reduce heat loss and lower your heating costs.

It's also worth examining the locking mechanisms of your double-glazed windows. Older upvc double glazed doors window locks are notorious for becoming stiff with time however, it's simple to fix this issue by lubricating them regularly with a specialized upvc window lock repairs near me cleaning product.

Having a professional double glazing company perform repairs will ensure that the work is completed properly. They'll have all the tools necessary to ensure that your window is watertight and completely sealed. They'll also be able fix any other damage to your frame so you can enjoy your stunning new double glazing with confidence.

Double glazed windows are long-lasting and durable, but they may develop issues due to wear and tear or weather. Contact your local double-glazing repair service whenever you notice any of these issues. You'll be grateful you did it - a double glazing installation well-maintained will give your house a a tangible feeling of quality, and will also save you money on 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 venting out through the frame. They are a great way to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint. Double glazing can have many issues that could affect its performance and life span. These include condensation, fog and difficulty closing or open.

Difficulty opening your double glazed windows could be caused by the weather or it could be a problem with the hinges or handles, or the mechanism. Cleaning them with cold water and then lubricating them can alleviate the issue, but you must contact the company you bought windows from as quickly as possible to have it repaired.

If your doors or windows have sagged or dropped over time, this is another common issue that can be easily fixed by an experienced professional. Again, it's worth checking the warranty to see what, if any, repairs are covered under this warranty.

Fogged or foggy glass is caused by moisture in the panes. It's usually a sign that your seals aren't functioning properly or your double-glazing unit requires to be replaced. It's a simple fix and you'll often get it done without the need to replace the entire window, which can save you money.

To correct this issue, a technician will make tiny holes to vent any moisture that is trapped between the glass panes and the remainder of the window. Once the moisture is removed the new antifog coating is applied and the window is sealed. Sometimes, the window might need to be removed before this can happen however most of the time it is done from the inside of the home.

Mist

Double glazing that is older may have a mist issue in particular when it occurs both in and out of the window. This is due to a failure of the seal that is designed to block moisture and air between two panes. The seal is made during the manufacturing of double-glazed units by sealing both panes using an airtight polysulphide or butyl seal around the edges and a spacer bar. This is designed to create insulation and prevent the window from leaking. It isn't easy to clean windows with mist, Repairers as you need to break the seal to clean them.

The problem with mist is that it allows moisture to enter, which ultimately causes condensation between the glass panes. The reason for this is because there is a significant difference in temperature between the interior and exterior glass surfaces. The moisture then gets trapped in the spaces and repairers creates the appearance of a milky white. This can be quite ugly and it can be a pain to get rid of.

Some firms claim to be able to fix misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes in the unit and injecting a chemical through the holes that absorbs moisture from the inside. This is not an end-to-end solution and it's much easier to replace your entire double-glazed unit.

It is important to keep your windows clean and conditioned regularly. It is also recommended to use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens and clean windows with a damp cloth to prevent the accumulation of moisture. If you are unable to avoid the problem, we recommend that you replace your double-glazed windows with new A-rated units to improve the efficiency of your energy bills.