How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is a fantastic method to keep heat in and cold out of your home. Over time, it may require repair.
Misting or condensation between the two glass panes is a typical indication that the seals of your windows have failed. This could be costly in terms of energy bills, and could also be an injury risk.
Gaskets
Window gaskets, as their name suggests, are the rubber pieces placed around the stationary edge of double-glazed windows. They are important in keeping moisture and air out of the gap between the glass panes and prevent condensation and draughts to form. They are also vital for ensuring the strength and tightness of the glass unit around its edges. It is recommended to hire a professional to install the gaskets on windows. They'll know how to gauge the gap size and pick the appropriate gaskets that will ensure a tight fit and minimal degradation over time.
Condensation in the two glass panes can be an indication of a broken double glazing seal. It is usually visible as water droplets or mist spreading across the gap. Double glazing repair is needed if this happens.
In most cases the problem can be resolved by replacing the gasket on the perimeter. Although repairs to double glazing windows can be more expensive than using a simple sealant but it is a long-term solution, and also has the benefit of allowing natural ventilation of the glass panes. The type of double-glazed window as well as the climate will determine the material is best for a replacement gasket. The most common materials are silicone, neoprene, and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer).
Gaskets can be replaced without replacing the entire glass unit. A skilled double glazing expert can often repair the windows that leak and are draughty by simply replacing gaskets that have started to wear out. This is a much cheaper option than replacing the entire frame and can be completed in less than an hour dependent on the severity of the issue.
If the glass isn't cracked and misting is not a problem, then misting between panes can usually be remedied by using a special cleaning kit that involves drilling small holes into the misted double glazing to draw out the moisture. The hole is then filled with an aqueous resin that forms a permanent seal, which stops any future misting problems.
Glass
Modern double-glazed windows are designed to be as tough and long-lasting as they can be. However, they are not indestructible and over time like everything else, problems can occur. Fortunately, most double glazed window faults can be repaired quickly and easily by an UPVC window specialist. Hinges, locking mechanisms, and handles are among the most frequently encountered double-glazed repair issues.
The sealed unit, also known as an insulated unit (IGU) is the most important component of a dual glazed window. It is comprised of two panes that are separated by a spacer and then filled with insulating gases. This is the insulation that makes uPVC aluminum, timber and windows so energy efficient.
The seal that separates the two glass panes prevents heat from passing through the window and into the room. This is essential to keep your home warm and cut down on energy bills. Over time the seal on the rubber may break down. If this happens, you will need to replace the double-glazed window.
Condensation between the two panes is a common problem with double-glazed windows. This is not just ugly but also indicates that the seal has been damaged and water is now leaking between the glass panes.
Normally the difference in temperature between indoors and outdoor temperatures is the cause of condensation between the panes. It can also be caused by humidity levels. In most cases it is possible to correct the issue by drilling out the misty glass, and then applying an anti-fog solution to eliminate the moisture.
Some companies offer a service where they drill your double glazed windows and then plug the holes to prevent the windows from misting again. However, this is a short-term solution and the problem will usually return within six months. If the company that installed your double glazing comes with a warranty, you could be entitled to a replacement. A reputable double-glazed repair company will be in a position to provide this service. The new units will look and function the same way as when they were first installed.
Frames
Double glazing windows are usually made of uPVC or aluminium frames. Both have pros and cons, however, uPVC is generally the most popular due to its affordability and long-lasting. It also requires less maintenance and stores heat better than aluminum. Aluminium frames are excellent at transferring heat, but they also conduct cold, which is the reason they require a thermal break.
A damaged frame can cause problems with your double glazing as it causes the seals to deteriorate, which in turn leads to condensation and misting of the glass. It is recommended to keep your frame in good shape and keep it in good condition especially around hinges, handles and where they go through the cill.
In addition If you notice that your double glazed window is difficult to open or close then it might be a sign that the seals have broken down and are allowing in cold air. You could try lubricating the mechanism or hinges to test if this will help. It is crucial to note that if the problem persists then you should call the company from which you bought your windows from and make arrangements for them to visit and fix the problem.
It is not advised to attempt to repair double-glazed windows by yourself, as the job requires special tools that you're unlikely to possess. It's also dangerous to attempt this without the proper knowledge and experience. This could lead to serious injuries. A reliable double glazing repair business can give you an estimate for the work to be done and often will offer a warranty with their service as well.
Repairing your double glazing is typically cheaper than buying new windows. It can be done within a matter of hours depending on the extent and severity of the issue. In most cases your double-glazed windows will look as great as they did when they were first installed and you will enjoy the many benefits that a home equipped with A+ rated energy efficient windows has to offer.
Hinges
There are a variety of hinges that can be fitted to uPVC double-glazed windows. These can be used to make windows more convenient to open and close or reduce the cost of energy by reducing drafts and cold air entering the home. They can also be used to improve your window's security by making it harder to open the window from outside.
Another common issue with double-glazed windows is condensation between the panes of glass. This happens when the seal fails and fails to retain the gases that act as insulation in between the two glass panes. In certain cases, this can be fixed by re-installing the sealing strip that runs around the edges of the frame. This is usually a simple procedure, and can be completed at home.
If the mist between the panes of glass is due to a weak seal, it can be fixed by drilling a small hole into the window and using a desiccant to absorb any moisture. This can be done quickly and easily by a professional, and is often cheaper than replacing the entire window.
Installing a new set of uPVC window hinges can give your double-glazed windows a new look. They can be used to replace old, damaged hinges. They can be purchased from a reputable online retailer and are available in a variety of colours to complement any style of interior. In addition to giving your home a fresh design changing the hinges could help in reducing the noise that comes from the street or other sources within your house.
Double-glazed windows in your home is a fantastic 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 are also more appealing to potential buyers, which means they can increase the selling price of your home.
It is recommended to consult an expert installer before deciding on the double-glazed windows that are right for your home. They will be able to suggest the best windows to meet your needs and will ensure that they are properly installed. They will also be able to provide tips on how to maintain your double-glazed windows.