How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is a great method of keeping the warmth in your home and the cold out. Over time, it may need to be repaired.
A common sign of a failed window seal is the appearance of misting or condensation between two panes. It can be expensive for your energy bill and also pose a security risk.
Gaskets
Window gaskets, as the name suggests, are rubber parts that are placed around the stationary edges of double-glazed windows. They stop condensation and draughts, by preventing air and moisture from entering the space between the two glass panes. They are also essential to ensure the integrity and a tight fit of the glass unit at all edges. It is best to hire an expert to install the gaskets on windows. They know how to measure the gaps and choose the correct gaskets to ensure an exact fit.
The most obvious sign of broken double glazing seals is the appearance of condensation between the two glass panes. This is often visible as tiny droplets of water or mist that spreads across the gap. Double glazing repair is required if this happens.
In most cases, the problem is solved by replacing the existing perimeter gasket. Although this is more costly than a simple sealant but it is a long-term solution with the added benefit of allowing natural ventilation of the glass panes. The kind of double-glazed windows and the environment will determine which material to use for a replacement gasket. The most common materials are silicone, neoprene, and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer).
It is not always necessary to replace the entire glass unit if the gaskets have been damaged. A skilled double glazing professional can usually fix the windows that leak and are draughty by replacing the gaskets that are beginning to wear out. This is a much cheaper option than replacing the whole frame and can be completed in under an hour, dependent on the severity of the problem.
If the glass isn't cracked, misting between the double glazing panes can be eliminated using the cleaning kit. This kit involves drilling small holes into the double-glazing misting to eliminate the moisture. The hole is then stuffed with a sealant to prevent any future misting.
Glass
Modern double-glazed windows are designed to be as tough and long-lasting as is possible. However, they are not durable and, over time like all things there are issues that can arise. Fortunately, UPVC window specialists can quickly and easily fix the majority of double glazed window issues. Hinges, locking mechanisms and handles are among the most frequently encountered double-glazed repair problems.
The main element of a double-glazed window is the sealed unit or the insulated glass unit (IGU). It is comprised of two glass panes separated by a spacer bar, and filled with insulating gas - similar to an open sandwich made of glass with air filling it. This is what provides the insulation that makes uPVC windows, aluminium and timber windows so energy efficient.
The seal between the two panes stops heat from escaping through the window into the room. This is vitally important to keep your home warm and cut down on energy bills. However, over time the rubber seal may break and if this happens, you'll have to replace your double glazed window.
Condensation between the two panes is a frequent problem with double-glazed windows. This is not just ugly but it also indicates that the seal has broken and moisture is now between the glass panes.
Moisture between the panes is normally caused by a steep difference between the indoor and outdoor temperatures. It can also be due to humidity levels. In most instances, it is simple to fix by drilling the glass that is misted up and then removing the moisture using an anti-fog spray.
Some companies offer a service where they drill holes into your double-glazed windows and then seal the holes to prevent the windows from misting again. But, this is only a temporary solution and the problem is usually resolved within six months. If the company that installed your double glazing offers an assurance, you could be entitled to a replacement. This service can be offered by a reputable double glazing repair company. The new units will work and look the same as when they were first installed.
Frames
Double glazing windows are typically constructed from uPVC or aluminium frames. Both have pros and cons, however, uPVC tends to be most popular due to its affordability and durability. It also requires less maintenance and stores heat better than aluminum. Aluminium frames, on the other hand, are very good in transferring heat but they can also conduct cold air, which is the reason it is crucial that they have thermal breaks to lower their U-factor.
A frayed frame could cause problems with double glazing since it causes the seals to weaken. This can cause condensation and a misting of the glass. It is best to keep your frame in good working order and keep it in good condition, especially around the hinges, handles and the places where they cross the cill.
If you find it difficult to open and close your double-glazed windows it could be the result of a damaged seal which allows cold air to get into. Try lubricating the hinges or the mechanism to see if this helps. It is crucial to note, however, that if the problem persists then you should call the company from which you bought your windows from and get them to visit and repair the issue.
It is not advised to attempt to replace double-glazed windows yourself, since this task requires specialized tools, which you are unlikely possess. In addition, attempting this without the appropriate expertise and knowledge can be dangerous and result in serious injury. A reputable company that offers double repair of the glazing will be able give you an estimate on the cost of the repair and will often provide a guarantee.
Repairing your double glazing is generally cheaper than purchasing new windows. It can be completed in a matter of hours depending on the extent and severity of the issue. Double-glazed windows should appear like they did when they were first installed. You'll also reap the benefits of having A+ rated energy efficient Windows.
Hinges
There are many types of hinges available that can be fitted to uPVC double glazing windows. These hinges can be used to make it easier to open and close the window or to reduce the energy cost by reducing draughts. You can also use them to enhance the security of your windows by making it harder to open the window from outside.
Another common problem with double-glazed windows is condensation between the glass panes. This occurs when the seal is damaged and is unable to hold in the insulating gases that are held between the two panes of glass. This can be rectified in some cases by re-installing the seal around the frame's edges. This is usually a simple procedure that can be done at home.
If the mist between the panes of glass is caused by a faulty seal the issue can be resolved by drilling a small hole into the window and using desiccant to remove any moisture. repair to double glazed windows can be done quickly and easily by a professional and is often cheaper than having to replace the entire window.
A new set of uPVC hinges can be fitted to give your double glazed windows a fresh look, and they can be used in place of old, worn hinges. They can be bought on the internet from a trusted retailer and are available in a variety of colors to match any interior design. Changes to the hinges will not just provide your home with a fresh look but also reduce noise coming from the outside or inside.
Double-glazed windows are an excellent method to boost the value of your home and also add comfort. They are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows and can save money on heating costs. They are also more attractive to potential buyers, so they can increase the selling price of your home.
It is important to choose the right double-glazed windows for your home, and you should talk to an experienced installer to ensure the most efficient results. They can recommend the most suitable products for your requirements and ensure that they are installed correctly. They will also be able provide suggestions on how to maintain your double glazed windows.