The 10 Scariest Things About Repair Double Glazed Windows
How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double glazed windows often come with either 10 or 20 year warranties, so be certain to know what coverage you have. Repairing your double glazing is less expensive than replacing it and could help you save energy and money on your bills as well.
If your double glazing has started to mist, it is likely that the sealant between the glass panes has failed. This is typically the case when the windows are old or worn and can be costly to replace.
1. Glass that has chipped or cracked
Double-glazed windows that have damaged or cracked can cause condensation to develop between the two panes. In most instances replacing the glass unit is a must particularly when one or both of the panes has been broken. However, if the frame is in good shape, repairing one glass pane may be an effective alternative.
Sealing cracks is easy and quick using masking tape or duct tap. For minor cracks, such as stress cracks due to differences in temperature one strip of tape placed over both sides of the window should suffice. For deeper cracks such as those caused from collision, it is advised that the tape is extended to the entire length of the crack in order to ensure that it can keep the glass together.
Another alternative to an effective solution that is permanent is to use a solvent-based glass adhesive. It is typically applied to both the inner and outer surfaces, and then spread with a putty blade. This method takes longer however, it is more effective in stopping cracks from spreading.
If the cracks are very severe or have been present for an extended period of time it may be better to wait for a professional firm to fix the windows because this will result in a more durable finish. If the cracks aren't that bad and are not creating any leaks in the water or leaks, it's better to stick with the quick fixes as they can keep the cost of repairs down.
Applying a two-part epoxy to the crack will make it stronger and more permanent. First, clean the glass surface with an abrasive cloth and allow it to dry completely. Mix the resin and hardener as per the instructions on the packaging and apply the mixture to the crack with a putty knife. Once it has fully dried you can paint over the putty as well as the surrounding frame to create a seamless surface.
2. Water Leaks
Whether your double glazing has been leaking or you've noticed condensation between glass panes, both problems can be fixed without the need to replace your windows. This is because the issue is not in the uPVC, aluminium or timber window frames but rather in the insulated glass unit (IGU) that sits between them.
The IGU is composed of two sheets of glass that are separated by a bar that acts as a spacer and then filled with an insulating gas - kind of like glass sandwich. In ideal circumstances, the gap is airtight, and this is what helps keep cold air out of your home, energy from your heating in and warm your home. Unfortunately, over time and with different temperatures, the seals in the IGU will weaken and lead to leaks.
Water leaks can be identified by looking for water on the sill or window frame, discoloration or a musty odor. If you notice any of these, it's crucial to seek out an expert immediately for repairs.
If you have condensation on the outside of your double glazed windows, it's likely due to high humidity levels in your home. This is a common winter phenomenon and is not caused by faulty double glazing.
If you see water between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows, it means that the IGU is not performing as as it ought to. The moisture that is present between the glass panes not only looks ugly but also affects double glazing's effectiveness as it can no longer keep the cold out and warm in.
There are several methods that this issue can be resolved, but it's generally best to leave it to the experts. They'll drill small holes in the affected pane of the glass insulated unit. They then inject or pump in a desiccant to remove all of the moisture. Then, they'll apply a specific anti-fogging solution to prevent condensation from returning. They may then blow hot air into the hole in order to dry it out further.
3. Draughts
The airtight seal double-glazed windows have prevents condensation from forming between the window panes, but over time, the seal could fail. When this happens, you might notice a cold draught coming in through the window or door. This can be very annoying and may result in an energy loss. If your window is noisy, it is recommended that you call a repair service as soon as you can to fix the seal.
Double glazing is a type of window that features two glass panes inside frame composed of aluminium or uPVC. The main part of double-glazed windows is an Insulated glass panel (IGU) that is composed of two sheets separated by an air space filled with gases that act as insulation. This forms an gas-filled insulating'sandwich' of glass that helps to keep your home warm.
Modern double-glazed windows are very likely to break or become damaged, but they still need to be looked after as an investment. If you find that your double glazed windows are becoming difficult to open or close, there could be an issue with the hinges or mechanisms which can be fixed by a UPVC window specialist.
If you are noticing furniture near the double-glazed windows is becoming discoloured or damaged this could be due to the UV rays from the sun. Double-glazed windows reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your property. This helps protect your belongings and makes your home more comfortable.
It is also important to verify the warranty that came with your double-glazed windows. Sometimes, you can have your IGUs repaired or replaced under the terms of your warranty. This will save you the expense of replacing your windows and allow you to get the most from your investment in the future. This is especially true if the problem is caused by one damaged or misted glass or a significant rot in the frames. Before you do any repairs or replacements to your windows, it is important to speak with an UPVC expert.
4. Haze
Haze is one of the most frequent problems encountered by double glazed windows. It is caused by the trapped moisture between the two glass panes usually due to a leaky seal. It can be difficult to get rid of haze, regardless of whether it is the result of condensation or a defect in the frame of the window. It is possible to fix misted double-glazed windows without having replace them.
A simple way to solve a problem like this is to make use of a dehumidifier, or desiccant in the form of a packet. If upvc window repairs near me dealing with a major problem or a long-term issue it's best to call in experts.
Although uPVC window frames are incredibly durable, they can be damaged over time, particularly if the weather is particularly hot or cold. This is normal, but it can cause problems such as the stiff or stuck window or door. Fortunately, it is normally simple to solve these issues by hiring a UPVC window specialist.
Some companies will drill holes into the window and insert desiccants to draw out any moisture. This is a great option and is much less expensive than replacing the window. It is important to remember, however, that the hole has to be refilled after six month, and moisture may return when the seal is damaged in the window.
Another option to repair the problem of haze is to eliminate it by using the mixture of vinegar and water, or by using a commercial product that is designed to address this problem. This is a more complicated process than simply drilling holes in the window and inserting a desiccant, however it can be successful and doesn't require a replacement.
Double-glazed windows are a great way to keep heat in your home, and make it more energy-efficient. However, they need to be maintained. If you're experiencing any of the issues listed above, consider seeking help from a professional with repairs to double glazing in Essex. They'll be able to ensure your windows are in good condition and can replace hinges, handles or locks if necessary.