Repairing Double Glazed Windows
There are times when double-glazed windows will need repair. This could be due to condensation, mist or damaged seal.
A repair of your uPVC windows repaired by an expert will ensure that you have a weatherproof and airtight seal for your home. This will reduce the cost of replacing your windows.
Broken Panes
There is a good chance that one of your double pane windows has broken. It could be due to an errant baseball or hurled stone, broken glass isn't something that you want to ignore. It might seem simple to fix, but it's recommended to leave the repair and replacement of broken double pane window units to professionals who have experience with these types.
The first step to repairing double-glazed windows is to remove the old pane. Wearing gloves and a mask can help you avoid further damage to the window unit. After the pane is removed then you'll need to take off all paint, putty or other sealants from the glass's edges. If you don't have a sharp blade for puttingty the deglazing device could work.
After the old sealant has been removed and you are now able to reposition the new pane. Be sure to buy the correct size glass and understand how it will fit in the frame. Be cautious when prying off the wooden stops that help to hold the glass in the frame. If you're able to, try to save them for later reattachment.
In the end, you'll have to apply new double-face tape to the edges of the windowpane and to the corners of the frame to ensure that the new pane sticks. This tape can also prevent cracks that appear superficial from becoming worse, like those caused by seasonal temperature fluctuations.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation is an natural phenomenon that occurs when water vapour turns into droplets of liquid on a cool surface. This occurs when warm air comes in contact with a cool window. The moisture can build up between the double-glazed windows. There are several things you can do to stop this from occurring to your windows.
Ensure that your windows are in good shape and sealed properly. If you spot any cracks or gaps in the seal, it's crucial to fix them in the earliest time possible. If the seal is damaged it can allow moisture move into and out of your home causing condensation between your windows. It's also a good idea to replace any weatherstripping that has been damaged or worn. This will also stop condensation from forming between the windows.
If your windows are sealed, but you still have to deal with condensation between the panes, there is an excellent chance that insulation gas has gone away. This is a serious issue that could affect your windows' energy efficiency, allowing cold air to pass through in the winter and heat to escape in the summer.
Re-sealing double-glazed windows is possible however, it is not something that homeowners should attempt without a lot of experience in this area. This job should be left to the professionals, as it requires very specific tools and is extremely complex. In most cases, replacing the entire window is a better option than trying to repair it. This is especially true if the window is broken or damaged, and can save you lots of money in the long run.
Water Leaks
If you're experiencing water leaks around your double-glazed windows it's essential to fix the issue promptly. This will prevent water damaging your plaster walls and walls, and also stop draughts from coming in through the gaps around your window.
Typically, the main cause of this issue is when the seal that keeps water out of the gap between the glass sheets wears down. This results in minute holes being formed in the insulating gap. These holes can then be used by rainwater to get into your home.
Other factors can cause leaks around double-glazed windows. If your guttering has become blocked or your window sill isn't properly sloped, it could cause leaks around your double glazed windows.
Double glazing can also cause condensation and misting between the sheets of glass. Condensation can be an problem because it's a sign that the gas cavity that separates the two sheets of glass has sprung a leak. This means that the inert gasses inside have evaporated and warm air is entering your home through the gaps.
A professional will usually defog your double-glazed window when there is condensation between the two panes. This involves removing one of the panes of your window, and then piping hot air in to get rid of any lingering moisture and then sealing it back up by applying a new sealant. However, reviews on this method are mixed and we recommend you contact a specialist company in the event of this problem with your windows. They can evaluate your situation and give you recommendations on the best way to proceed.
Dropping Panes
Double-glazed windows are made to last for a long time, however as they age, they could be affected by a variety of issues which could lead to the need for repairs. Fortunately, they are covered by a guarantee that usually covers them for 10 to 20 years.
Condensation between glass panes is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. This is often caused by an ineffective seal that allows air to escape. The loss of the gas used to insulate within the window decreases its effectiveness and results in the loss of some of its insulation properties.
If you're seeing condensation on the windows of your home it is crucial to act swiftly to avoid a full replacement of the glass unit. If you have a double-glazed window that is under warranty, call the company to find out whether they can assist you in fixing the unit.
To fix the problem start by sanding and scraping the rabbets that fit the window into the frame until the wood that is unfinished. After sanding, apply an external primer. Allow it to dry. Once the putty has become soft and warm, press it into all rabbets (as illustrated). Don't stress about the neatness of this step.
Once the putty is in place, reinstall the glass pane. Be sure to wiggle it in a gentle manner to ensure that the putty does not crack or break the glass. Apply some waterproof caulk on the outside of the sash. This will prevent water from entering. Then, clip the trim pieces that hold panes in the sash into the appropriate position. Be sure to leave small amount of space on either side to account for expansion and contraction of the wood.
Misting
When it comes to repairing double-glazed windows, misting is a very common problem. It occurs when water gets between the glass panes and forms condensation. This is typically caused by the frames of windows changing slightly over time and the packaging that keeps them in place settling and breaking the seal between the sheets of glass.
UPVC window experts will be able to repair the issue for you and ensure that your double-glazed performs as it should. Along with replacing the damaged sealing system they will be in a position to give your windows a fresh and clean refresh, leaving them window repairs looking and performing exactly as when they were installed in the factory.
Many people think that they need to replace their double glazed windows if they start to show signs of wear and tear but this could be very costly. In reality the case that it's only the gasket seals that have become damaged, they are able to be replaced, rather than the entire window unit. it will also save money on your energy costs.
If your double-glazed windows begin to fail they can be quite frustrating especially if you've just purchased them. However, most of problems can be resolved by a professional UPVC window company. They can help you to restore your windows to the same condition they were in when they first entered your home. By contacting one of these companies, you will determine if your double glazing is worth saving and what the repairs will cost. Then, you can make a decision about whether or not to proceed with them.