10 Inspirational Graphics About Double Glazed Window Repair
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is an excellent investment for your home, but it can be a hassle if it isn't working properly. Most issues can be addressed and you don't need to replace your windows or doors.
Double glazed windows consist of two glass panels separated by an extremely thin gap, which is filled with an insulating gas such as Krypton or argon. This helps increase the efficiency of a window's heating.
Broken panes
Double-paned windows are more difficult to break than single panes of glass however they are still susceptible to shattering or crack. When a pane becomes broken in your double-glazed windows, it's essential to fix it as soon as possible to prevent loss of energy and moisture.
Depending on the severity of the crack, you may choose to make an interim fix or go for an intensive epoxy repair. A temporary repair can help prevent further cracking, and keep out cold air and rain. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack and provide an even stronger seal.
To replace a broken double-pane window, remove the frame and place it on an un-slip surface. Apply a grid of duct tape over the pane to stop glass fragments from falling during removal. Once the tape has been applied, remove 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. If necessary, remove the wood molding and scrape off all metal or putty before putting in the new pane. Apply silicone caulk in the rabbets and grooves to ensure a snug fit.
If you're trying to repair a damaged glass by yourself, start by sanding the glass until it's smooth and free of paint. Heat guns can be used to soften any putty or glazing. Once the rabbet has been cleaned the putty knife can be employed to press the rope of putty into position. Make sure that the putty has a uniform thickness, and that it presses equally against the glass and frame.
If you want an option that lasts for a long time you can choose an epoxy repair instead of replacing. This option is more costly and has a longer waiting period, but can be more attractive. It also lasts longer than an immediate fix.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most frequent double-glazed window issues, however it doesn't mean that your windows are defective. It's good to know that your windows display condensation. This indicates that double glazing is working just as it should, keeping out the cold and retaining the heat.
When you see condensation forming on the outside of your windows, it is actually water vapor from the inside of your home that has been cooled and condensed onto the surface of the glass. It's a natural process and isn't likely to cause any harm to your windows unless you allow it remain on the glass for too long.
Internal condensation is often caused by too much humidity in the room or the low internal temperatures, which causes cold surfaces like the windows to draw moisture from air with a high dew point (the temperature at which water changes into liquid). The steam from showers, kettles and hot pots as well as the cooking pans can also cause humidity around kitchens and bathrooms.
Avoid hanging wet clothing close to windows and ensure that your uPVC frames are well ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture. Also, ensure that your double-glazed windows are properly insulated and fitted, with the proper gap (6mm is the ideal) to maximize energy efficiency. You could also try installing one-way air vents on your windows to increase insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, there's probably an issue with the seals or gaskets and this is definitely an issue that requires the expertise of a professional.
Draughts
A draughty window is a sign that the seal between the glass panes of your double-glazing has started to leak and is likely to require replacement. This can affect the insulation of your home and cause an increase in your energy bills and therefore it is important to act as soon as you spot this issue.
A window repair service can replace the sealed unit for you, restoring the efficiency of your windows. They can also modify your existing frames to include new energy-saving features, like gas filled argon glass units with thermal spacer bars that will cut down on heat loss and lower your heating costs.
Draughts can also be caused by problems with the locking mechanisms of your double glazed windows, so it's worth getting the windows checked. It's common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to become stiff with age. This can be easily fixed by lubricating your locks regularly using a specialist uPVC cleaner.
A professional double glazing company will ensure that the repair is completed correctly. They will have the tools needed to ensure that your window is watertight and fully sealed. They'll also be able to fix any other damages to your frame so you can enjoy your beautiful new double-glazed window with confidence.
Double-glazed windows last a long time and hard-wearing, but they can sometimes develop problems because of wear and tear or the weather. Contact your local double-glazing repair services immediately if you spot any of these problems. You'll be grateful you did it - a double glazing installation that's well-maintained will give your house a an impression of quality, and will also save your energy costs!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows consist of two separate panes, with an air spacer or dense gas in between. This creates a strong seal that stops heat from venting out through the frame. They're an excellent option to save energy and reduce the carbon footprint of your home. However, RepairMyWindowsAndDoors glazing may encounter a myriad of issues that could impact its performance and durability. This includes fog, condensation, 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. You can ease the problem by lubricating and wiping down the windows with cold water. Contact the company that supplied you with the windows as soon as you can fix them.
This is a common issue that can be fixed easily. Again, it's worth checking the warranty to see what repairs are covered under this.
Fogged or foggy glass is caused by moisture between panes. It's usually a sign that the seals aren't functioning properly or the double-glazing system needs to be replaced. This is a straightforward solution that can be achieved without having to replace the entire window.
To address this issue technicians will drill tiny holes to let out any moisture between the glass panes and other parts of the window. After the moisture has gone then a new anti-fog coating will be applied and the window sealed. Sometimes, the window will need to be removed before this happens but most of the time, it is done within the home.
Mist
Mist can be a huge issue with older double glazing, particularly when it is present on the inside and outside of the windows. It is caused by a failure in the seal designed to keep moisture and air between the two panes. The seal is made during the production of double-glazed units by sealing both panes using an airtight polysulphide seal or butyl seal around the edges and spacer bar. This is designed to protect the window from heat and prevent the window from being leaking. If you have misted double glazed windows, they can be a challenge to remove and clean, since you will need to break through the hardened seal to clean.
The problem with mists is that they allow moisture to enter and cause condensation between the glass panes. This is due to huge differences in temperature between the internal and external surfaces of the glass. The moisture is then trapped within the spaces and gives an appearance of milky white. This can be very unsightly and is difficult to get rid of.
Some companies claim that 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. But, this isn't a permanent solution to the issue and it is far easier to replace the whole double-glazed unit if you are suffering from misting.
The best method to avoid misty double glazing is keeping a good level of ventilation and regularly cleaning your windows. Make use of extractor fans to minimize moisture buildup in kitchens and bathrooms. Clean windows with a damp cloth to avoid this. If you're unable to eliminate the problem completely We recommend replacing your double-glazed units with new A-rated units to increase the efficiency of your energy usage.