How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double glazing is an excellent way to keep heat inside and cold out of your home. Over time, it may need to be repaired.
A typical indication of a damaged window seal is the appearance of misting or condensation between two panes. This could be costly for your energy bill and also be a security hazard.
Gaskets
Window gaskets, as the name suggests, are the rubber pieces placed around the stationary edge of double-glazed windows. They prevent condensation and draughts, by preventing air and moisture from entering the space between the two glass panes. They are also vital for ensuring the integrity and a tight fit of the glass unit around all edges. While some people may attempt to install window gaskets themselves It is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional tradesperson with experience. They know how to measure the gaps and choose the appropriate gaskets for an exact fit.
The primary sign of a broken double glazing seal is the appearance of condensation between the two panes of glass. It usually appears as water droplets or mist that spreads across the gap. If this happens, it is necessary to carry out an repair to the double glazing to fix the problem.
In most cases, the problem is solved by replacing the gasket on the perimeter. This is more expensive than a simple sealant, but it provides a long-term solution. It also permits natural air circulation between the glass panes. The type of double-glazed window and the surrounding environment will determine which material is best for a replacement gasket. Typical materials include silicone, neoprene, as well as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer).
It is not always necessary to replace the entire glass unit when gaskets are damaged. A skilled double glazing professional can often repair the windows that are leaking and draughty by replacing gaskets that have started to degrade. This is a less expensive option than replacing the whole frame and can be carried out in less than an hour depending on the severity of the problem.
If the glass isn't cracked, then misting between the panes can be fixed with a special cleaning kit, which involves drilling tiny holes in the double glazing that has mist to draw out the moisture. The hole is then stuffed with a sealant that stops future misting.
Glass
Double-glazed windows of today are designed to last as long as possible. They are not indestructible however, as with all things, problems can arise with time. Fortunately, most double glazed window faults can be repaired quickly and easily by a UPVC window specialist. Some of the most common problems with double glazing repair are hinges and locking mechanisms, handles and sealing.
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 glass panes separated by a spacer bar and filled with gas that is insulating - a bit like the sandwich of glass bread with air filling it. This insulation is what makes uPVC windows, aluminium windows and timber windows so energy efficient.
The seal between the two panes blocks heat from getting through the window into the room. This is crucial to keep your home warm and save on energy costs. However, with time, the rubber seal can break down and, if it does, you'll need to replace your double glazed window.
Condensation between the two panes is a typical problem with double-glazed windows. It can be very unappealing however it can also be an indication that the seal has broken and moisture has made its way into the glass panes.
Moisture between the panes is usually caused by a drastic difference between the temperature of the indoor and outdoor. It can also be caused by humidity levels. In most cases, it's possible to fix the problem by drilling out the misty glass and then applying an anti-fog solution to remove the moisture.
Some firms offer a service where they drill your double glazed windows and then seal the holes to stop the windows from misting again. But, this is only a temporary solution and the issue is usually resolved within six months. If you have a guarantee with the company that installed your double glazing, you could be entitled to a replacement unit. This service can be offered by a reputable double-glazing repair service. The new units will work and look the same as they did when they were installed.
Frames
Double glazing windows are usually constructed from uPVC or aluminium frames. Both have their pros and cons, however uPVC is usually the more popular choice due to its cost and durability, low maintenance requirements and the ability to hold heat better than aluminium. Aluminium frames however are extremely efficient in transferring heat but they can also conduct cold air, which is why it is crucial that they have a thermal break to reduce their U-factor.
A damaged frame can cause problems with double-glazing, because it can cause the seals to deteriorate. This can lead to condensation and misting on the window glass. It is best to keep your frame in good working order, and maintain it, especially around the hinges, handles, and where they pass the cill.
In addition to this, if you notice that your double glazed window isn't easy to open or close then it might be a sign that the seals have broken down and are allowing in cold air. Try lubricating the hinges or mechanism to see if this helps. If the issue continues then you must contact the company where you bought windows to request them to visit and fix the issue.
It is not advised to attempt to repair double-glazed windows yourself, as the job requires specialized tools, which you are unlikely possess. It's also dangerous to do this without the proper expertise and knowledge. This could lead to serious injuries. A reputable business that provides double glazing repairs will be able provide you with an estimate of the cost of the repair and will often provide a guarantee.
The cost of having your existing double-glazed windows repaired is usually much cheaper than buying and fitting new windows. It typically can be completed within a few hours, depending on the extent of the issue. Most of the time, your double glazed windows will appear as attractive as they were when they were 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 kinds of hinges that can be fitted on uPVC windows with double glazing. These hinges can be used to make it easier to open and close the window or to lower energy consumption by reducing draughts. repairing double glazing windows can also be used to enhance the security of windows by making them harder to open from outside.
Condensation in between the glass panes is a common issue with double-glazed windows. This occurs when the seal is damaged and is unable to retain the insulating gases that are held between the two glass panes. In some cases this issue can be resolved by re-installing the sealing strip that runs around the edges of the frame. This is usually a simple process, and can be completed at home.
If the mist is caused by a faulty window seal, you can fix it by drilling a tiny hole in the glass and using desiccant to absorb moisture. A professional can fix this swiftly and easily and it's usually cheaper to replace the window rather than drilling a small hole.
Installing a new set uPVC window hinges can give your double-glazed windows a fresh look. They can be used to replace old, damaged hinges. These can be purchased from a reputable online retailer, and they come in a variety of colours to complement any style of interior. In addition to giving your home a fresh design changing the hinges could also reduce noise from the streets or other sources within your house.
Having double glazed windows in your home is an excellent way to add comfort and value to your home. They are more energy efficient than single-glazed windows and can save money on heating bills. They are also more attractive to potential buyers, and they can increase the selling price of your home.
You should speak with an expert installer before deciding on the double-glazed windows that are suitable for your home. They will be able to suggest the best windows to meet your needs and will ensure that they are installed correctly. They can also give you tips on how to maintain your double-glazed windows.