How to Repair Double Glazed Windows
Double-glazed windows usually come with either 10 or 20 year warranties, so be sure to verify the type of cover you have. Repairing your double glazing is cheaper than replacing it, and can help to 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 can happen when windows are old or worn. It is costly to replace.
1. Cracked or chipped glass
A cracked or chipped double-glazed window is a common issue that can lead to condensation between the two panes of glass in your home. In the majority of instances replacement of the glass unit is required particularly in the event that one or both of the panes has been broken. If the frame is in good condition, fixing only one glass pane could be a viable option.
Sealing cracks is easy and fast with masking tape or duct tap. For minor cracks like stress cracks that occur due to differences in temperature just a single strip of tape placed over both sides of the window will suffice. For more serious cracks, such as those caused by impact, it's recommended the tape be extended over the entire length of the crack to ensure that it can keep the glass in place.
Another alternative to an effective solution that is permanent is to make use of a solvent-based glass adhesive. Typically, it is applied to the inner and outer areas of the cracks, and then spread with a putty knife. This method is more time-consuming however, it is more effective at stopping cracks from spreading.
If the cracks have been severe or have been present for some time it is recommended to delay hiring a professional to repair your windows. upvc window repairs near me will give you a more durable finish. If the cracks don't seem to be severe enough and aren't creating water leaks, it could be best to opt for quick repairs. They will help keep the cost low.
A more permanent method to repair a crack in double-glazed windows is by applying two-part epoxy resin to the affected area. The glass surface should be cleaned with a damp cloth, and then allowed to dry completely. Then, mix the resin and hardener according to the directions on the package and apply it to the crack using the help of a putty knife. Once it has fully dried it is possible to paint over the putty and surrounding frame to create a seamless look.
2. Water Leaks
You can fix many double glazing issues without having to replace the windows. This is because the issue isn't in the uPVC, aluminium or timber window frames themselves but rather in the insulated glass unit (IGU) which is located between them.
The IGU is composed of two sheets glass separated by a spacer and filled with an insulating material. It's a sort of sandwich made from glasses. The gap should be airtight to prevent cold air from getting into your home and to keep your home warm. Unfortunately, over time and at various temperatures, the seals within the IGU can weaken and cause leaks.
Water leaks can be identified by a few key signs such as condensation on the window sill and frame discolouration, as well as the smell of musty. If you observe any of these, it's important to get in touch with an expert for immediate repairs.
If you see condensation on your double-glazed windows, this is most likely due to high levels of humidity in your home. This is a typical winter phenomenon and is not caused by defective double glazing.
However, if there is moisture between the panes of glass in double-glazed windows, this means that the IGU has been damaged and isn't functioning as it is supposed to. The presence of moisture between the glass panes is not just unattractive, it also affects the efficiency of your double glazing as it no longer keeps the cold out and the warmth in.
There are a variety of ways to fix this problem However, it is recommended to leave it to the experts. They will drill small holes into the affected area of your insulated glass unit and then inject or pump in a desiccant to remove all of the moisture and then apply a special anti-fogging agent to stop the condensation from returning. They can then inject hot air into the hole to further dry it out.
3. Draughts
Double glazed windows are equipped with an airtight seal in order to stop condensation from forming between the panes. However, the seal can begin to fail with time. You might notice a cold draft entering through the door or window when this happens. This can be extremely irritating and may result in an energy loss. If your window is noisy, it is recommended that you call repair services as soon as you can to fix the seal.
Double glazing is a form of window that contains two glass panes in the frame made of uPVC aluminum or timber. The principal element of double-glazed windows is an insulated glass panel (IGU) which is made up of two sheets that are separated by an air space filled with gases that act as insulation. This creates a 'sandwich of glass' effect and helps keep your home warm and quiet.
It is very rare for modern double-glazed windows to break or be damaged, but it's still important to look after them as they are a significant investment for your property. If you notice that your double-glazed window is becoming difficult to open, or close, it could be a problem in the hinges or mechanism. This can be easily fixed by a UPVC specialist.
If you are noticing furniture near your double glazed windows is becoming damaged or discolored, it could be caused by the UV rays from the sun. Double-glazed windows cut down on the amount of sunlight entering your property. This helps protect your belongings and makes your home more comfortable.
It is also important to verify the warranty that was included with your double-glazed windows. Sometimes you can get your IGUs replaced or repaired under the terms of your guarantee. This can save you the expense of replacing your windows and allow you to maximize the value of your investment in the future. This is especially true if the issue is caused by broken or misted glass, or a significant rot in the frames. It is important to talk to a UPVC expert to find out what can be fixed and what cannot, before you go ahead with any repairs or replacements.
4. Haze
Haze is among the most frequent problems encountered by double-glazed windows. It is caused by moisture trapped between the two glass panes, most often due to a broken seal. It can be difficult to remove haze, whether it is due to condensation or a problem in the window frame. It is possible to fix misty double-glazed windows without having replace them.
Make use of a dehumidifier to fix this issue, or try a packet of desiccant. If you're dealing with a serious or long-term problem, it's best to consult a professional.
Although they are extremely durable, uPVC frames can deteriorate over time, especially in the case of an extremely cold or warm day. This is normal, but it could cause problems such as an unsteady or stiff window or door. Hiring a UPVC specialist is usually the easiest way to fix the issues.
Some companies will drill a hole into the window and then insert desiccants to draw out any moisture. This is a viable option, and it is less expensive than replacement. However, it's important to keep in mind that the hole needs to be filled again after six months, and the moisture may return in the event of a crack in the seal elsewhere in the window.
Another way to repair a problem with haze is to eliminate it with a water and vinegar mixture or by using a commercial product specifically designed to deal with this problem. This is a much more complex process than drilling holes in the window and then inserting desiccant. However it is efficient and does not require any replacement.
Double glazed windows are great for keeping heat in your home, making it much more energy efficient, however they do need to be maintained. It is advisable to call a professional to help with repairs to double-glazing in Essex if you are having any of these problems. They will ensure that your windows are in good condition and replace hinges, handles or locks if necessary.