A Time-Travelling Journey: How People Talked About Double Glazed Window Repair 20 Years Ago
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing is a great investment, but it can be frustrating when it doesn't work. Fortunately, most issues are fixable and you do not have to replace your doors or windows.
Double-glazed windows comprise two glass panels separated by a very thin gap that is filled with insulating gas, such as argon or krypton. This improves the efficiency of a window's heating.
Broken panes
While double-pane windows are more difficult to break than single pane glass, they are still able to crack or shatter. If a pane breaks in your double glazing, it's important to fix it as soon as possible to prevent water and energy loss.
You can choose either a temporary repair or more extensive epoxy fix based on the degree of the crack. A temporary repair can keep cracks from spreading and keep out rain and cold air. A more extensive repair will strengthen the crack, and create the seal with a stronger one.
To replace a double-pane damaged window, remove the frame and place it on an un-slip surface. Apply a grid of duct tap over the pane to stop glass fragments from falling during removal. Once the tape has been installed, remove the old double-pane glass out of the frame. Next clean the grooves and rabbet using a wire brush and vacuum or wipe with a damp cloth. Remove the wood molding if needed and scrape away all metal glazing points before installing the new pane. Then, apply a silicone caulk over the rabbet and grooves to ensure that the fit is secure.
If you're trying to repair a damaged glass yourself, start by sanding it until it is smooth and free of paint. You can also use a heating gun to soften any glazing or putty points. After the rabbet is cleaned then you can use a putty blade to push a rope into place. Make sure that the putty has an even thickness and that it presses evenly against the glass frame.
If you're looking for a longer-term fix, an epoxy repair is a better option than a replacement. This requires more work and a longer time to wait however it is more attractive and will last longer than a quick temporary repair.
Condensation
Condensation can be a common issue for double-glazed windows however, it doesn't mean that they are defective. It's good to know that your windows display condensation. This indicates that double glazing is working just as it is supposed to, keeping out the cold and retaining the heat.
It is actually water vapour from your home which condenses on the surface of your glass when you observe condensation. It's a natural process that won't harm your windows, unless you leave it on the glass for long enough.
Internal condensation is usually caused by excessive humidity in the room or the low internal temperatures, causing cold surfaces like the windows to attract moisture from the air with a high dew point (the temperature at which water changes into a liquid). It is also commonplace in bathrooms and kitchens due to steam from kettles or showers and hot pans and pots used in cooking.
Do not hang wet clothes near windows and make sure your uPVC frames are properly ventilated to prevent the buildup of moisture. Also, ensure that your double glazed windows are properly insulated and fitted with the proper gap (6mm is best) for optimum energy efficiency. You can also add one-way air vents on your windows to improve insulation. If you're still seeing condensation, there's likely problems with the seals or gaskets and this is definitely an issue that requires the expertise of a professional.
Draughts
A window that isn't properly sealed can be an indication that the seal between the glass panes has broken and needs to be replaced. glass replacement could affect the insulation of your home and cause an increase in energy costs and therefore it is important to act as soon as you spot this problem.
A window repair service can replace the sealed unit for you, and restore the efficiency of your windows. They can also upgrade existing frames with energy-saving features, such argon-filled glass units and thermal spacer bars that reduce heat loss, and cut down on heating costs.
Draughts can be caused by problems with the locking mechanisms of your double glazed windows, so it's worth getting these checked out. It is common for older uPVC window lock mechanisms to stiffen with the passage of time. This is easily fixed by lubricating the locks regularly with a specialized uPVC cleaner.
A reputable double glazing company can ensure that your repair is completed correctly. They'll have the proper tools to ensure that your window is sealed and watertight. They can also fix any damage to the frame so you can enjoy your new double glazing.
Double-glazed windows are durable and hard-wearing, but they can sometimes develop problems as a result of wear and tear or weather. If you spot any of the above problems make contact with your local double glazing repair service right away to have them repaired in the shortest time possible. You'll be glad you did - a well-repaired double glazing installation will give your home that tangible sense of quality and will also save you money on your energy bills!
Smudging
Double-glazed windows are made up of two separate panes with an air spacer or dense gas in between. This creates an effective seal to stop heat from getting out of the frame. They're a great option for saving energy and reducing the carbon footprint. However, double-glazed windows can encounter a myriad of issues that can affect its performance and durability. This includes condensation, fog and difficulties to close or open.
If you're having difficulty opening your double-glazed windows, it could be because of the weather. It could also be a issue with the hinges, or handles. Cleaning them with cold water and lubricating them can help to solve the issue, however you must contact the company that you purchased your windows from as soon as you can to get it repaired.
If your windows or doors have sagged or dropped over time, this is a common issue which can be easily solved by an experienced professional. It's always worth checking your warranty to see whether any repairs are covered.
Fogged or foggy glass is caused by moisture between panes. It's typically a sign that the seals aren't working properly or that your double-glazing unit needs to be replaced. It's a fairly simple fix and you can often get it done without the need to replace the entire window, which will save you money.
To fix this problem technicians will drill small holes to vent any moisture that is trapped between the glass and the rest the window. Once the moisture is gone then a new anti-fog coating is applied and the window will be sealed. Sometimes the window will need to be taken off but, in most instances, it is done within the home.
Mist
Mist can be a huge issue for older double glazing, particularly when it occurs on both the exterior and the interior of the windows. It is caused by an issue with the seal designed to keep moisture and air between the two panes. This seal is constructed when making double-glazed units by sealing both panes with an airtight seal made of polysulphide or butyl around the edges and spacer bar. This is intended to protect the window from heat and prevent the window from leaking. If you have misted double-glazed windows it can be a challenge to remove and clean, since you'll need to break the hardened seal in order to clean.
The problem with mists is that they allow moisture to get in which causes condensation between the glass panes. This is due to an enormous temperature difference between the external and internal surfaces of the glass. The moisture is encased in the spaces, creating an appearance of milky. This can be quite unsightly and is a pain to eliminate.
There are a number of companies that claim to be able to repair your double glazed windows that are misting by drilling holes into the unit and injecting chemicals through the holes, which absorbs the moisture within. This isn't an end-to-end solution and it's much easier to replace your entire double-glazed unit.
It is important to keep your windows clean and conditioned regularly. Utilize extractor fans to lessen the amount of moisture that accumulates in kitchens and bathrooms. Wipe down windows using a moist cloth to prevent this. If you're not able to eliminate the problem completely, we recommend replacing the double-glazed units you have with A-rated ones to improve the efficiency of your energy usage.