How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is a great method to keep the warmth in your home and the cold out. In time, it could require repairs.
The presence of condensation or mist between the two glass panes is a sign that the seals on your windows have failed. It can be expensive in terms of energy costs and may be a security risk.
Gaskets
As the name suggests window gaskets are a type of rubber that are placed around the edges of stationary double glazed windows. They prevent condensation and draughts by keeping moisture and air from getting into the space between the two glass panes. They are also crucial to ensuring the integrity of the glazing system and a snug fit around all edges of the glass unit. While double glazing repairers may try to install window gaskets themselves but it is best to use the services of a professional tradesperson with experience. They'll know how to determine the gap size and choose the right gaskets that will ensure a tight fit and minimal degradation over time.
The primary sign of a damaged double glazing seal is condensation forming between the two panes of glass. It usually appears as water droplets or mist that spreads across the gap. Double glazing repair is needed when this happens.
In the majority of cases, the issue is solved by re-installing the gasket around the perimeter. Although this is more costly than a simple sealant, it provides a longer-term solution with the added benefit of allowing natural airflow of the glass panes. The choice of a replacement gasket material will depend on the type of double glazed window and its environment. Materials like silicone, neoprene or EPDM (ethylenepropylene diene monmer) are common.
Gaskets can be replaced without having to replace the entire glass unit. A skilled double glazing professional can often repair the draughty and leaky windows by simply replacing the gaskets that are beginning to wear out. This is a less expensive alternative than replacing the entire frame and can be carried out within a matter of minutes, depending on the severity of the problem.
If the glass is not cracked and misting is not a problem, then misting between panes is usually fixed with a special cleaning kit that involves drilling small holes into the double glazing that has mist to draw out the moisture. The hole is then filled with an aqueous resin that forms an impervious seal that prevents any future misting issues.
Glass
Modern double glazing windows are designed to be as durable and long-lasting as possible. They are not indestructible, and as with everything there are issues that can develop over time. Fortunately, most double-glazed window issues can be fixed quickly and easily by an UPVC window specialist. The most frequent double glazed repair issues include hinges and locking mechanisms, handles and sealing.
The primary component of a double glazed window is the sealed unit or insulated glass unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes separated by a spacer bar, and filled with gas that is insulating - similar to a sandwich of glass bread with air filling it. It is this insulation that makes uPVC windows, aluminium windows and timber window so energy efficient.
The seal that seals the two glass panes stops heat from entering the window and into the room. This is crucial to keep your home warm and save on energy bills. However, over time the rubber seal can break down and if this happens, you'll have to replace your double-glazed window.
Condensation between the two panes is a typical problem with double-glazed windows. This can be extremely unsightly, but it is also an indication that the seal is damaged and moisture has found its way through the glass panes.
Normaly, the difference in temperature between indoors and outdoor temperatures is the reason for the moisture between the panes. It could also be caused by humidity levels. In most instances, it is simple to fix the problem by drilling through the glass that has been misty and then removing the moisture by applying an anti-fog spray.
Some companies offer a service where they drill holes into your double-glazed windows and then plug the holes to stop the windows from misting again. This is a temporary fix, and the issue will recur in six months. If you have a warranty with the company who installed your double glazing then you could be entitled to a replacement. This service can be offered by a reputable double-glazing repair service. The new units will function and look the same as they did when they were first installed.
Frames
Double glazing windows are typically constructed from uPVC or aluminium frames. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but uPVC is typically the more popular option due to its low cost, durability, low maintenance requirements and the ability to hold heat better than aluminium. Aluminium frames on the other hand are extremely efficient in transferring heat but they can also conduct cold air, which is the reason it is important that they have thermal break to decrease their U-factor.
A faulty frame will cause problems with double glazing as it will cause the seals to degrade. This can lead to condensation and a misting of the window glass. The best way to prevent this is by making sure that your frame is in good condition and keeping it well-maintained, especially around the hinges, handles and the places they go through the cill.
If you notice that it's difficult to open and close your double-glazed windows, this could be the result of a broken seal that allows cold air to enter. You could try making sure that the hinges or mechanism are lubricated to try to see if it helps. If the problem persists then you must call the company from where you bought windows to have them to come out and fix the issue.
It is not advised to attempt to repair double-glazed windows yourself, since this task requires special tools which you are unlikely possess. It is also risky to do this without the proper knowledge and experience. This could result in serious injuries. A reputable double glazing repair company can give you the cost of the work to be done and often will offer a warranty with their service and also.
Repairing your double glazing is usually less expensive than buying new windows. It can be done in just a few hours depending on the extent and severity of the issue. In the majority of cases, your double-glazed windows will look as great as they were when they first fitted and you will enjoy the many benefits that a home equipped with A+ rated energy efficient windows has to provide.
Hinges
There are many kinds of hinges that can be installed on uPVC windows that have double glazing. These hinges can be used to make windows easier to open and close or to cut down on costs for energy by reducing the amount of the amount of cold air that enters the home. You can also use them to enhance the security of your windows by making it more difficult to open the window from outside.
Another issue that is common to double-glazed windows is condensation between the glass panes. This is caused by the seal breaking and not being able to hold in the insulating gas that is confined between the two panes of glass. In certain cases it can be fixed by re-installing the sealing strip around the edges of the frame. This is usually a simple procedure that can be done at home.
If the mist that is forming between the glass panes is due to a defective seal It can be fixed by making a small cut in the window and using an absorbent to saturate any moisture. A professional can do this fast and easily, and it's usually cheaper to replace the window instead of to drill a small hole.
Installing a brand new set of uPVC window hinges can give your double-glazed windows a fresh look. They can be used to replace damaged hinges. They can be bought on the internet from a trusted retailer and come in different colors to match any interior design. The hinges can be changed to not just give your home a new look but also reduce noise coming from the outside or in.
Double-glazed windows for your home is a great way to add comfort and value to the property. They are more efficient than single-glazed windows and can help you save money on heating costs. They also appeal to potential buyers and could increase the value of your home.
It is important to choose the best double-glazed windows for your home, and you should consult an experienced installer to get the best results. They can recommend the most suitable products for your requirements and ensure that they are installed correctly. They will also provide suggestions on how to maintain double-glazed windows.