How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea to inspect your double-glazed windows regularly, especially if notice the frames are contracting or expanding. This will reduce the risk of draughts.
If you see condensation between the glass panes, it is possible that the seal be failing and must be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only help to reduce condensation but will also reduce energy costs.
Broken or cracked panes
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage. It is susceptible to developing faults that can reduce the efficiency of energy. Repairing double glazing is a simple process but the right tools and knowledge are required to carry out quality repairs. It is recommended to hire a professional to perform the work instead of trying to do it yourself.
The most common issue that occurs with double-glazed windows is a broken or cracked pane. This could be a result of a blow or knock to the frame from outside or an attempt to open the window that is shut. Glass can crack or break into pieces depending on its size and the force used to break it.
Repairing local double glazing repairs -glazed glass window that is susceptible to cracking with the help of special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack growing or becoming worse, and will stop wind, water or other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Condensation of double glazing is another common problem and is often the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a normal occurrence that happens due to temperature and weather changes. Before attempting to repair your windows, check to check if they're covered under warranty.
Typically, this is covered by the company that you purchased your double glazing from, so it is crucial to contact them immediately and explain the issue clearly. This should be written down instead of by phone or text. Always keep a copy.
If you want to try and fix a window that has become misty yourself, a typical procedure is to drill a hole into the centre of the affected window. A special desiccant is then put in to absorb any moisture and this can help the condensation issue to heal itself. However it is a temporary solution and it is recommended to get double-glazed windows replaced with new units as soon as you can.
Misted Panes
Double-glazed windows that fog up can be a huge nuisance and cause major disruptions in your home. Fortunately, it can be relatively easy to resolve the issue once you understand what's causing it. Most of the time the problem is due to a problem in the seals that protect your window panes. This allows moisture enter. Poor installation or drainage issues or faulty seals by the window manufacturer can cause this problem.
Standard sealed units comprise of two glass panes, with a hollow spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the image above). The inside of the spacer bar has been perforated and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to absorb any moisture. The two glass panes will then be sealed and the whole unit will be injected with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails, then moisture can get in between the panes and can cause condensation and even mist. This will also lead to the heat from your home being lost which could lead to significant amounts of money lost through energy bills.
Repairing a misted glass is a difficult task that shouldn't be attempted by anyone who isn't well-versed in the glazing and construction industries. If you're willing to tackle the challenge, then it's possible to fix a misted sealed unit by adding moisture absorbing desiccant back into the space between the glass panes.
Keep in mind, however this is a temporary solution and the condensation will likely to return and the process may need repeating. It's more efficient to replace a misted glass unit and it will also be much cleaner and quicker. Replacements can also restore the original insulation of your house which isn't possible in repair. If you are experiencing misted windows and condensation, we suggest contacting an experienced company that can provide double glazing. In the meantime, consider making sure your windows are as dry as possible by making sure they're well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
If they're new or old, double glazed windows should not leak. Leaking windows aren't only a nuisance but they can cause severe damage to your home, including mold development and structural damage as well as higher heating and cooling costs. Contact a professional window company as soon as you suspect that there is a problem.
Window leaks are usually a sign of an issue with the seals between the panes of glass. If you notice condensation between the panes of glass it's a sign that the seal between the two panes has become weaker. Moisture is now flowing through the insulating space that is between the two panes. Although a small amount of condensation is normal, if it is persistent and becomes visible on the outside or inside of your home it is time to have an repair service.
The accumulation of water at the bottom of your window frame is another common reason for leaks. This can be an indication of drain holes that are blocked or flashing that is not 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. By using roofing caulk, you can repair flashing that is not properly installed. A faulty pitch could be the reason of the window sill sloping to one side. A professional window repair service can determine the root of the issue and provide an affordable, fast solution.
It is not uncommon for UPVC windows that are older to leak or break. However it is much more cost-effective and efficient to hire an expert to repair your double glazing. They can restore the appearance and function of your windows back to what they were like when they were new. They can also replace handles, hinges and locks, if needed. A reputable window repair service will also give you some kind of guarantee for their work, which you could not receive if you tried to repair the window yourself.
Achieving the Open
If you notice that your windows are becoming difficult to open, you should get in touch with the company from which you bought windows. In the majority of cases, a simple repair will resolve the issue. If the problem continues and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with modern, more modern designs. Double-glazed windows are available with state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, including slimline uPVC or aluminium frames, advanced insulation to stop the heat from escape, and sophisticated security hardware that stop intruders from entering your home.
Condensation in the glass panes is a common indication that double glazing requires repair. This is caused by a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gas is supposed to seep out between the glass and replace it with moist air to ensure that your windows stay well-insulated and thermally efficient. If this doesn't happen, then the seals could have deteriorated over time due weather changes or other factors.
A draught emanating from your double-glazed window is also a common sign that the seals have failed, which means that cold air is leaking into your home. This can lead to more energy costs as your heating system will need to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home.
In some cases a draught may be resolved by lubricating handles, hinges or mechanisms on double-glazed windows or doors. It is important to note that this is only a temporary solution and you will have to seek out the experts if the problem persists.
You can also put in ventilation, such as air bricks, extractors or vents in your windows and doors to assist with condensation issues. You should also allow double-glazed doors and windows to 'breathe,' which is possible with trickle vents.