How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is recommended to ensure that your double-glazed window frames are inspected regularly, particularly in the event that they are expanding or shrinking. This will decrease the chance of drafts.
If you find condensation in between the panes, this is an indication that the seal is failing and needs to be replaced. The seal can be replaced to decrease condensation and conserve energy.
Cracked or broken panes
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage. It can experience faults that can reduce the energy efficiency. Repairing double-glazing is a relatively simple task, but you will require the right tools and experience to do it properly. It is recommended to use a professional firm to perform the work instead of attempting it yourself.
A broken or cracked window is the most common problem for double-glazed windows. This could be a result of a knock or blow to the frame from the outside, or from an attempt to open a window that is stuck closed. Glass can crack or break into pieces depending on its size and the force used to crack it.
If a double-glazed window is prone to cracking, it can be repaired by using a type of putty or a special tape. This will stop the crack from spreading or getting worse. It will block any water, wind or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Condensation of double glazing is another common problem and this is often the result of a break of the window seal. It is a natural process that occurs due to different temperatures and weather conditions, which is why it is crucial to confirm that your windows are still in warranty before you attempt to repair them.
Typically, this is covered by the company you bought your double glazing from so it is important to contact them quickly and explain the issue clearly. It is best to do this in writing instead of by phone or text message Keep a copy of your correspondence.
If you want to try and fix a window that has become misty by yourself, a popular method is to drill through the middle of the damaged pane. A special desiccant is then inserted to absorb any moisture, and this will help the condensation issue to heal itself. However it is temporary solution, and it is recommended that you have double-glazed windows replaced with new windows as soon as possible.
Misty Panes
When double-glazed windows start getting misty, it can be a real issue and cause a significant disruption to your home. Once you identify the cause it's easy to repair. Most of the time, the root of the problem is a defect in the seals between the window panes, allowing moisture to get in. This could be caused by inadequate installation, drainage issues or even faulty seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units comprise of two glass panes with an open spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the image above). The inner surface of the spacer bar has been perforated and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to absorb any moisture. The two glass panes are sealed and the whole unit is filled with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails, moisture can enter between the panes and can cause condensation and even mist. This can also result in heat escaping your property which can add up to significant amounts of money lost through energy bills.
Repairing a window that has been misted is a challenging task that shouldn't be attempted by a person who doesn't have extensive knowledge in the construction and glazing industries. If you are willing to tackle the challenge, it is possible to repair a misted sealed window by putting in moisture-absorbing desiccant into the space between the glass panels.
Bear in mind, though it's only temporary solution, and the condensation will likely return and the process may need repeating. It is more effective to replace the misty unit. double glazing repairs will also be quicker and more clean. Replacements can also restore the original insulation of your home that isn't accessible through repair. We suggest getting in touch with a reputable double glazing company if you're having trouble with condensation and misty windows. In the meantime, consider keeping your windows as dry as possible by ensuring that they are properly ventilated and being cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double glazed windows shouldn't leak, whether they are new or old. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but they could also cause serious damage to your home. This includes mold growth as well as structural damage and higher heating and cooling costs. Contact a professional window company as soon you suspect that there is a issue.
Window leaks could be an indication that the seals between glass panes are not working correctly. If you notice condensation between the glass panes it's a sign that the seal between the two panes is deteriorating. Moisture is now flowing through the insulating space that is between the two panes. While some condensation is normal, if it persists and becomes visible on the exterior or interior of your house, it's time to call a repair service in.
Another cause of leaks is the accumulation of water on the bottom of the frame of your window. This could be an indication of clogged drainage holes, improper flashing or an unbalanced sill. It is simple to clear a clogged drain hole using a coat hanger. By using roofing caulk, you can easily fix improper flashing. A faulty pitch could be the reason of an inclined window sill to one side. A professional window repair service will to determine the source of the problem and provide an affordable and quick solution.
It is not unusual for UPVC windows that are older to leak or break. However it is much more cost-effective and efficient to use a double glazing repair service. They can bring your windows' appearance and functionality to the way they were when they first came out. They can even replace handles, hinges and locks if necessary. A reputable window repair service will also provide you with a form of guarantee for their work, which you would not receive if you tried to repair the window yourself.
It is difficult to open
If you notice that your windows are getting difficult to open, you must contact the company from which you purchased windows. In most instances, a simple repair will resolve the issue. If the problem persists it is possible to look at replacing your windows with more modern. Double-glazed windows are available with state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, such as slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium with advanced insulation that stops heat from escaping, as well as sophisticated security hardware that stop intruders from entering your home.
Another common sign that your double glazing needs repairs is condensation between the glass panes. This is due to an issue with the seals between the two panes. Inert gases are supposed 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 could have been damaged in the course of time due to weather conditions or other factors.
A draft that is coming from a double-glazed window could also be a sign that the seals aren't working which means cold air is coming into your home. This could lead to higher energy bills, as your heating system will need to perform harder to keep the temperature of your home steady.
In some cases a draught can be fixed by lubricating the hinges, handles or mechanisms on double-glazed doors or windows. It is crucial to remember that this is temporary solution and if the issue persists, then you'll have to contact a professional.
You can also put in ventilation systems, such as air bricks, extractors or vents in your doors and windows to assist with condensation issues. You should also allow your double-glazed doors and windows to 'breathe,' which is possible by using trickle vents.