The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Double Glazing Window Repairs

The Ultimate Glossary Of Terms About Double Glazing Window Repairs

Double Glazing Window Repairs

Many homeowners face recurring double glazing problems such as broken locks or handles, condensation between the panes, and draughts. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be solved without having to invest in new replacement windows.

Double glazing that is misted generally means that the sealed glass needs to be replaced. This is often cheaper than replacing the window frame.

Broken Glass

A stray piece of grass or a tree blown into by the wind could easily crack double-pane windows of the present. In most cases, only one pane is damaged however, the entire window could require replacement, depending on the type of glass used and whether it has special coatings or insulation. Repairing damaged glass is an easy process, but you will have to buy an IGU (insulated glass unit) from your local glass repair shop for the best results.

Wear safety gloves and a mask for your face when handling broken glasses. A single piece of glass broken can cause serious cuts and injuries, so take extra care to safeguard yourself.  upvc window repairs near me  broken pane is fixed by putty or glazing, which must be removed before the new pane can be installed. You can do this with a utility knife, however a hammer or chisel may be needed to get rid of the old putty. Cover the area with a towel to catch any shards of glass that fall.

Make use of a heat gun prior to trying to take off the old caulk, if it is still in place. Cut through the caulk with your knife. If the frames come with wooden stops to keep the panes inside the frame in a straight line then you'll need to use a long-nosed pliers or a hammer for removing the stop.

After you have the old pane removed and the frame empty and clean, wipe it down with a a damp cloth. Then you can measure the frame's opening to determine how tall and wide your new glass should be. You'll also require new set of glass points as well as a double-faced glazing tape.

A glazier's knife or putty knife should be used to make the new putty. It has to be thicker than the norm because of the increased thickness of the glass. Add the oil of linseed to the putty on a regular basis to keep it soft and easy to work with. When the new putty is formed, you can press it against the glass and frame using your thumb. After the epoxy has cured and dried, soak a rag in acetone to clean the edges of the frame and the glass. This will take off any epoxy that is raised over the edge.

Condensation Between the Panes

Double glazing is typically plagued by condensation between the window panes. It can cause windows to look milky and foggy, and it can result in mildew or mould growth around frames, sills and sealant. If left untreated, it may cause the sash and frame to weaken, which will further reduce the efficiency of the windows. If condensation is a significant problem, it should be dealt with as soon as possible to avoid further damage and to improve the appearance of windows.

Congestion can develop on the inside or outside of a double glazed unit, but it's most likely to form between the glass panes as this is the place where insulation is. Condensation in the interior is typically an indication that the air inside your home is too humid. It's simple to fix this problem by dehumidifying. However, condensation on the outside of your window is a greater cause for problem and is usually caused by a damaged seal.

If you've recently installed double-glazed windows and you notice condensation between the glass panes, it's crucial to contact the company that installed your windows to determine whether they can help. They can inspect for signs of damage and failure on the seals and units, and might be able to perform an resealing procedure in order to restore the thermal efficiency of the windows.

It's recommended to keep your windows regularly cleaned as this can aid in preventing condensation issues. You can use a product for cleaning specifically designed for double glazed windows or you can hire a professional to clean your windows on your behalf.

If you have older double-glazed windows and you have condensation between the panes then it's likely that the seal has failed. Seals are constructed of a material called a silica gel. It's got a large surface area and can absorb water vapor effectively. As the seal deteriorates it allows moisture to enter the spaces between the glass panes and it will result in a layer of condensation which you won't be able to remove.

Draughts

A double-glazed window made of two panes of glass separated by an air gap that is used to improve energy efficiency and improve sound insulation. If the seals fail, moisture can be introduced and cause condensation. Foggy windows are the result. If this happens it's usually a matter of replacing the entire glass unit.

The most frequent issue is that doors and windows are difficult to open or close. This can be caused by a slight warping in the frame, or faulty hinges and mechanisms. In some cases it is possible to lubricate the hinges or mechanisms can aid. If the problem persists it's worth calling the company that sold you your windows to find out whether they provide a repair or replacement service.

Doors and windows that are difficult to close and open could let heat escape from your home and create drafts. This isn't just a waste of money but it's also a risk for your family and yourself. Your home is vulnerable to burglars who aren't you, and you may end up paying more for your heating bill than you need to.

Draughts can be a concern with any type of double glazing. However they are more prevalent with older, thinner windows and windows that have been fitted improperly. It is essential that the installers make sure they fit your windows correctly to ensure that they function as best they can and offer you the most value for your money.

The windows' seals need to be able to expand and contract in response to temperature fluctuations. This is a normal part of the job but poor materials and shoddy workmanship can cause seal failures and issues in the future. Using higher quality windows from a reputable manufacturer will result in less maintenance and repairs in the near future.

If you haven't experienced a projectile being launched at your double-glazing (which could happen) there aren't many reasons why they might suddenly break or crack. Although changing weather conditions could have an impact but they're more often the result of a simple issue that can be repaired fairly quickly and easily.

Weather Seals

The weather seals on double glazed windows play a crucial role in maintaining the airtight seal which helps your double glazing to be more energy efficient. If they are damaged or worn, your windows will become less efficient and you might be able to see condensation, drafts or fogging between panes of glass. We can replace and repair window seals at Mr Misty quickly and efficiently to ensure that your double glazing will continue to perform as long a possible.


The condensation or moisture that forms between the two panes in an IGU (insulating glazing unit) can cause fogging. The cause of this is typically due to rapid temperature fluctuations or a poor quality window sealant, or collision. Untreated, the issue could cause the breaking of the seal and leaking of the inert gasses which will drastically reduce your window's insulating capabilities.

This is one of the most frequent issues we deal with when it comes to double repair of glazing and it's a simple fix. Simply clean the glass and the frames with a damp cloth to get rid of any traces of dust or dirt, then use a dehumidifier dry the area completely prior to re-sealing the window.

Cracks in the frames or sash can be repaired easily by applying a strong-hold tape to the crack. Make sure to use a tape that is sufficient in thickness to hold a crack in place. But, it should not be too thin as it may fall off. A strip of masking or packing tape on both sides of the window should do the trick, although more extensive cracks will require a more robust solution like expanding foam.

If you notice lots of scratches on the frames of your windows, it may be time to seal. You could try using a non-abrasive cleaner on the frame, but if you're dealing with more severe scratches, it could be better to hire a professional to reseal your double-glazing.

It is important to maintain your double-glazing, and seal it as often as necessary, in order to protect your investment. This will keep your home warm and toasty for as long as it's yours. Making contact with a professional is the fastest and most economical way to address any issues that arise with your double glazing, and if you follow this advice, you'll be able be able to enjoy your warm, toasty and cozy home for years to come.