How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is an excellent method to keep heat in and cold out of your home. However, over time, it could require repairs.
A common sign of a failed window seal is the appearance of misting or condensation between two panes. This could be costly for your energy bill and it may also pose the risk of injury.
Gaskets
As the name suggests windows are made up of pieces of rubber positioned around the stationary edges of double-glazed windows. They are essential in keeping air and moisture out of the gaps between the glass panes, preventing condensation and draughts from occurring. They are also vital for ensuring the integrity and a tight fit of the glass unit at all edges. While some individuals may attempt to install gaskets for windows themselves It is recommended to use the services of a professional tradesperson with experience. They'll know how to measure the size of the gaps and pick the appropriate gaskets to ensure a perfect fit and minimal degradation over time.
Condensation between two glass panes is an indication of a damaged double glazing seal. It is usually visible as water droplets or mist spreading across the gap. Double glazing repair is needed when this happens.
In the majority of cases, the problem can be resolved by replacing the existing perimeter gasket. 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 type of double-glazed window and the environment will determine which material to choose to replace the gasket. The most common materials are silicone, neoprene and EPDM (ethylene propylene monomer diene).
It is not always necessary to replace the entire glass unit when the gaskets have been damaged. A professional in double glazing will often be able to fix the draughty windows that leak by replacing gaskets. This is a much cheaper option than replacing the whole frame and can be carried out in under an hour, depending on the severity of the issue.
If the glass is not cracked misting between the panes is usually fixed by using a specific cleaning kit, which involves drilling small holes into the misted double glazing to draw out the moisture. The hole is then filled with a sealant that prevents future misting.
Glass
Double-glazed windows of today are designed to last as long as possible. They are not indestructible, and as with everything there are issues that can develop with time. Fortunately, the majority of double-glazed window issues can be fixed quickly and easily by a UPVC window specialist. The most frequent double glazed repair issues include hinges and locking mechanisms, handles and sealing.
The main element of a double-glazed window is the sealed unit, or an insulated glass unit (IGU). It consists of two glass panes separated by a spacer bar and filled with insulating gas - similar to the sandwich of glass bread with air filling it. This is the insulation that makes uPVC windows, aluminium and timber windows so energy efficient.
The seal that seals the two glass panes keeps heat from passing through the window and into the room. This is crucial to keep your home warm and reduce energy bills. However, over time, the rubber seal may break and if this happens, you will need to replace your double glazed window.
Condensation between the two panes is a typical problem with double-glazed windows. This can be extremely unsightly however it could also be an indication that the seal has damaged and moisture has found its way into the glass panes.
Normaly the temperature difference between indoors and outdoors is the reason for the difference in condensation between the panes. It could also be caused by humidity levels. In the majority of cases, it's easy to fix it by drilling the glass that is misted up and then removing the moisture applying an anti-fog spray.
Certain companies will drill holes into your double-glazed windows, and plug them up so that they don't mist again. This is a temporary solution, and the issue will recur within six months. If you have a guarantee from the company that installed your double glazing then you may be entitled to a replacement. A reputable double-glazed repair company will be in a position to provide this service, and the new units will appear and function the same way as when they were originally installed.
Frames
Usually, double glazing windows are made from aluminium or uPVC frames. Both have their pros, however, uPVC tends to be the most popular due to its low cost and durability. It also requires less maintenance and stores heat better than aluminum. Aluminium frames, on the other hand are excellent at conducting heat but can also conduct cold air, which is why it is essential to have a thermal break to reduce their U-factor.
A faulty frame will cause problems with double glazing as it will cause the seals to degrade. This could lead to condensation and a misting of the glass. It is recommended to keep your frame in good shape and keep it maintained especially around hinges, handles and where they go through the cill.
If you find it difficult to open and close your double-glazed windows it could be a sign of a damaged seal that allows cold air to in. Try lubricating the mechanism or hinges to try to see if it helps. If the issue continues you should contact the company where you bought your windows to arrange for them come out and fix the problem.
It is not recommended that you attempt to repair a double-glazed window yourself as the job requires special tools you probably don't have. It is also risky to attempt the task without the proper skills and knowledge. This could result in serious injuries. A reputable company offering double repair of the glazing will be able provide you with an estimate of the cost of the repair and often offer a guarantee.
The process of having your double glazing repaired is generally much less expensive than purchasing and fitting new windows. It is usually completed in a few hours, depending on the extent of the issue. In most cases your double-glazed windows will look as great as they were when they first installed and you will benefit from all the advantages that a house with A+ energy efficient windows have to offer.
Hinges
There are many types of hinges available that can be used to uPVC double-glazed windows. These hinges can be used to make the window more convenient to open and close, or to reduce the cost of energy by reducing draughts and cold air entering the home. They can also be used to enhance the security of your windows by making them more difficult to open from outside.
Another common problem with double-glazed windows is condensation between the glass panes. This occurs when the seal breaks and does not retain the gases that act as insulation in between the two panes of glass. This can be corrected in some cases by replacing the seal around the frame's edges. This is usually a simple procedure that can be done at home.
If the mist is caused by an ineffective window seal, you can fix it by drilling a small hole in the glass and using desiccant to absorb moisture. This can be accomplished quickly and easily by a professional, and is usually less expensive than having to replace the entire window.
Installing a brand new set of uPVC window hinges will give your double glazed windows a new look. They can also be used to replace damaged hinges. These can be purchased from a reputable online retailer and come in a variety of colours to match any interior design. double glazing repairers to the hinges will not only give your home a new appearance, but also help reduce noise from the outside or in.
Double-glazed windows are a fantastic option to increase the value of your home and also add comfort. They are more efficient than single-glazed windows and can save you money on heating costs. They are also more appealing to potential buyers and may boost the value of your house.
It is recommended to consult an expert installer prior to choosing the double-glazed windows that will work for your home. They can recommend the best products to suit your requirements and will ensure that they are installed correctly. They will also offer tips on how to maintain double-glazed windows.