Double Glazed Window Repairs

Double glazing can be a fantastic investment for your home, however it can be frustrating when it fails to function properly. Luckily, the majority of issues are fixable and you do not need to replace your windows or doors.

Double glazed windows consist of two glass panels that are separated by an extremely thin gap, filled with insulating gas, such as argon or krypton. This makes windows more efficient.

Broken panes

Double-paned windows are harder to break than single panes of glass, but they can still shatter or handles crack. It is important to repair a broken pane in double glazing as soon as possible in order to avoid moisture and energy loss.

You can choose an immediate repair or a more intense epoxy fix based on the extent of your crack. A temporary repair can help to prevent further cracking, and keep out rain and cold air. A more extensive repair could strengthen the crack and provide more secure seal.

To replace a broken double-pane window, first remove the frame from the sash, and then set it on the table. Install a duct tap grid over the pane to stop glass fragments from falling during removal. Once the tape is in place, pull the old double pane glass from the frame. Then employ a wirebrush to clean the grooves and rabbets. You can also vacuum them or wipe them with a damp cloth. If needed, remove the wood molding and scrape away all putty or metal points before installing the new pane. Finally, apply a silicone caulk over the grooves and rabbet to ensure an ideal fit.

If you're planning to repair damaged windows yourself, start by sanding the rabbet until it's smooth and clear of gunk or paint. Heating guns can be used to soften any glazing or putty points. Once the rabbet is cleaned the putty knife can be used to press the rope of putty 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 a longer-term fix the repair of an epoxy is a better option than replacing. This is more expensive and will require a longer wait time, but can be more appealing. It also lasts longer than an immediate repair.

Condensation

Condensation is one of the most common double glazed window issues, but it doesn't necessarily mean that your windows aren't working properly. It's a good thing your windows show condensation. This means that your double glazing is working as it is supposed to, preventing the cold and keeping in the warmth.

It is actually water vapour from your home that condenses on the glass's surface when you observe condensation. It's a natural process that won't cause harm to your windows, unless you leave it on the surface long enough.

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

Avoid hanging wet clothes close to windows, and make sure your repairing upvc doors frames are well ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. Also, ensure that your double-glazed windows are correctly insulated and installed with the correct gap (6mm is ideal) for optimum energy efficiency. You could also consider adding air vents that are one-way to your windows to increase insulation. If you're still experiencing condensation, it's likely a problem with your gaskets or seals. This is a task that should be left to a professional.

Draughts

A window that isn't draughty 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 cause an increase in energy costs, so it's important to act as soon as you notice this problem.

Window repair services can replace your sealed unit, restoring energy efficiency to your windows. They can also upgrade your existing frames with energy-saving features, such glass units filled with argon and thermal spacer bars to cut down on heat loss, and reduce your heating bills.

It's also worth examining the locking mechanisms on your double-glazed windows. It is common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to stiffen with age. This is easily fixed by lubricating your locks regularly with a specialist upvc windows repair near me cleaner.

A professional double glazing company can ensure that your repair is done properly. They'll have the proper tools to make sure that your window is resealed and watertight. They can also repair any damage to the frame so that you can enjoy your new double-glazed window.

Double-glazed windows are durable and hard-wearing, but they can sometimes develop problems because of wear and tear or the weather. Contact your local upvc window repairs double-glazing repair services as soon as you discover any of these issues. You'll be happy you did it - a double glazing installation that's well-repaired will give your home an impression of quality, and will also save your energy costs!

Smudging

Double-glazed windows comprise two separate panes, with an air or spacer dense gas between them to form an effective seal that stops heat from passing through the frame. They are a great way to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint. Double glazing can be plagued by several issues that can impact its performance and handles life span. This includes condensation, fog and difficulty closing or open.

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 the mechanism. It is possible to solve the issue by wiping down and lubricating the windows with cold water. Contact the company who sold you the windows as soon as you can to get them fixed.

This is another common problem that is easily fixable. Again, it's worth checking the warranty to see what repairs are covered under this.

Fogged and foggy glass can be caused by moisture in the panes. It's typically the result of seals that are not working or a double-glazing unit that needs to be replaced. This is a straightforward fix that can be accomplished without having to replace the entire window.

To address this issue, a technician will drill small holes to vent 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, the window will need to be removed prior to this can be accomplished however most of the time, it can be carried out from the inside of the home.

Mist

Double glazing that has been in use for a long time may have a mist issue, especially when it occurs both within and outside the window. This is because of a weakening of the seal that is designed to keep air and moisture between the two panes. During the manufacture of double-glazed units the seal is made by sealing both panes with an airtight butyl or polysulphide seal around the edges of the glass and a the 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 because you have to break the seal in order to clean them.

The problem with mist is that it allows moisture to get in, which then results in condensation between the panes of glass. The reason for this is that there is a big difference in temperature between the interior and exterior surfaces of the glass. The moisture is then trapped in the spaces and creates an appearance of milky white. This can be quite unsightly and can be a pain to eliminate.

Some companies claim they can fix misting double-glazed windows by drilling holes into the unit and injecting a chemical through the holes that absorb moisture from the inside. This is not a permanent fix and it's much easier to replace the entire double-glazed unit.

The easiest method to avoid misty double glazing is by keeping a good level of ventilation and regularly cleaning your windows. It is also a good idea to use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms and clean windows with an damp cloth to minimize the accumulation of moisture. If you're not able to eliminate the problem completely, we recommend replacing your double-glazed units with new A-rated ones to improve energy efficiency.