How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea to have your double-glazed windows inspected regularly, especially if notice the frames are expanding or contracting. This can reduce the chance of drafts.
If you notice condensation appearing between the glass panes, the seal may be failing and needs to be replaced. The seal is able to be replaced to lessen condensation and conserve energy.
Cracked or broken Panes
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage. It can develop problems that could reduce the energy efficiency. Repairing double glazing is a relatively simple process but the right tools and skills are needed to carry out top-quality repairs. It is recommended to use a professional firm to do the work rather than attempting it yourself.
The most common issue that occurs with double-glazed windows is a cracked or broken pane. It could be the result of a blow or knock on the frame from outside, or from an attempt to open windows that are shut. The glass could crack or break into small pieces, based on the size of the crack and the force that is applied to it.
If the double-glazed window is susceptible to cracking it can be repaired by using a specific type of putty or tape. This will stop the crack from expanding or getting worse. It will block any wind, water or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is condensation in double glazing. It is usually the result of a broken window seal. It is a natural phenomenon that is caused by different temperatures and weather conditions, therefore it is important to check whether your windows are in warranty before you attempt to repair them.
This is usually covered by the company that supplied you with your double glazing, so it's important to contact them quickly and explain the problem clearly. It is recommended to do this in writing, rather than via text message or phone Keep a copy of your correspondence.
Making a hole in the middle of a misted pane is a common method of fixing it yourself. The desiccant absorbs any moisture and aid in resolving the problem. However it is an interim solution, and it is recommended to get double-glazed windows replaced with new units whenever possible.
Misty Panes
Double-glazed windows that mist up can be a huge troublesome issue that can cause major disruptions to your home. Once you have identified the source it's fairly easy to fix. In most cases the cause of the problem is a defect in the seals between your window panes, which allows moisture to enter. This can be caused by poor installation, drainage problems or even seals that are defective from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units consist two glass panes, sandwiched by an open spacer (shown above). The inner surface of the spacer bar is perforated, and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to suck up any moisture. The two glass panes will be sealed and the whole unit will be injected with gas in order to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine if the sealed unit fails, moisture could get between the panes causing condensation and mist. This could also result in heating being lost from your home which could lead to significant amounts of money squandered in energy costs.
However, fixing the misted double glazing window isn't easy and shouldn't be attempted by anyone without an extensive understanding of glazing and the construction industry. If you're willing to take on the challenge, then it's possible to repair the misted seal by adding a moisture absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Keep in mind, however it's only temporary solution, and the condensation will likely return and the process might need to be repeated. It's much more efficient to replace a misted glass unit and it will also be much cleaner and quicker. A replacement will restore the original insulation of your property and is not achievable by repairing. We recommend getting in touch with a reputable double-glazing company if you're struggling with condensation or misty windows. In the meantime, consider keeping your windows as dry as you can by ensuring that they are well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
If they're new or old, double glazed windows must not leak. Leaking Windows are not just an inconvenience, but could also cause serious damage to your home. This can include the growth of mold and structural damage as well as higher heating and cooling costs. Contact a professional window service as soon as you suspect that there is a issue.
Window leaks are usually a sign of an issue with the seals that connect the panes of glass. If you notice condensation between the panes it's a sure sign that the window seal has been damaged and that water is leaking into the gaps between the glass's insulating. A small amount of condensation is normal. However should the issue persist and is visible on your home's exterior or interior, it is time to call in an expert repair service.
Another common cause of leaks is that water collects on the bottom frame of your window. This could be a sign of clogged drain holes or flashing that isn't properly installed or an uneven sill. A drainage hole that is blocked is simple to fix using a wire coat hanger to remove the gunk. With roofing caulk, it is easy to fix flashing that isn't working properly. If the window sill is sloping to one side it may be due to an improper pitch. A professional window repair service will to determine the source of the problem and provide an affordable, quick solution.
While it is not unusual for old UPVC windows to break or leak, it is much more efficient and cost-effective to get a professional double glazed repair service. They can restore the appearance and functionality of your windows to what they were like when they were new. They can replace hinges, locks and handles if needed. Professional window repair companies will offer you a guarantee for their work. You would not get this if you were to repair windows yourself.
Difficulty of Opening
If you find that your windows are becoming harder to open, you should contact the company from which you purchased windows. In the majority of cases the issue can be solved with a simple fix. If the issue continues to persist and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with new windows that are more modern in design. New double glazed windows offer modern features that keep your home safe and warm, including slimline uPVC or aluminium frames with advanced insulation that stops the heat from escape, and innovative security hardware to keep out intruders.
Another indication that your double glazing needs repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is caused by a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gases are designed to escape between the two panes of glass and be replaced by moist air. This will keep your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals may have deteriorated or broken and this may happen in time as a result of changing weather conditions or other elements.
A draft from a double-glazed window can also indicate that the seals aren't working, which means that cold air is leaking into your home. This could also result in more expensive energy bills as your heating will have to be more efficient to keep the temperature of your home stable.
In some cases a draught may be fixed by lubricating the hinges handles, mechanisms or handles of windows or doors with double glazing. But, it is important to keep in mind that this is temporary fix. If the issue persists, then you'll have to call in the experts.
To prevent repair double glazing window , you can put in ventilation in your windows and door, such as air bricks or extractors. It is also important to let your double-glazed doors as well as windows to breathe, which you can achieve by using trickle vents.