How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea have your double-glazed windows checked regularly, especially if notice the frames are expanding or contracting. This can reduce the chance of drafts.
If you notice condensation in between the panes, it is a sign that the seal is failing and has to be replaced. The seal is able to be replaced to lessen condensation and help save energy.
Broken or cracked panes
Double glazing is not impervious to damage and it is possible for faults to occur that can reduce the efficiency of energy-efficient windows and doors. Repairing double-glazing can be an simple task however, you'll need the right tools and expertise to complete it properly. It is generally recommended to hire a professional company to perform the work instead of attempting it yourself.
The most common issue that can affect a double-glazed window is a broken or cracked pane. This could be a result of a knock or blow to the frame from the outside, or from an attempt to open windows that are closed. Glass can break or crack into pieces depending on its size and the force applied to break it.
Repairing a double-glazed glass window that is prone to cracking using a special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack extending or getting worse, and will stop the elements of wind, water or other elements from entering your home through cracks.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is condensation in double glazing. It is usually caused by a damaged window seal. It is a natural phenomenon that occurs due to different temperatures and weather conditions, which is why it is crucial to confirm whether your windows are under warranty before attempting to fix them.
Typically, this will be covered by the company you bought the double glazing from. Therefore, it is crucial to contact them immediately and clearly explain the issue. It is best to do this in writing, rather than by text or phone and keep the copy of your correspondence.
Drilling a hole in the middle of a misted pane is a common method to fix it yourself. A special desiccant is inserted to absorb moisture and this will help the condensation problem to resolve itself. However, this is only a temporary solution and it is recommended to get your double-glazed windows replaced by new units whenever possible.
Misty Panes
Double glazed windows that mist up can be a real nuisance and cause major disruptions to your home. If you can pinpoint the issue it's easy to repair. In most cases the cause of the problem is a problem with the seals between your window panes, which allows moisture to enter. This could be caused by inadequate installation, drainage issues or even seals that are defective from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units comprise two glass panes sandwiched with a hollow spacer (shown above). The inner face of this spacer bar is perforated. the bars that are used as spacers are filled with a desiccant, which helps to absorb any moisture that gets into the unit. The two glass panes then are sealed and the whole unit is injected with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails, then moisture can enter between the panes, and this could cause condensation and mist. This could also result in heating being lost from your home which can add up to an enormous amount of money being lost in energy bills.
Unfortunately, fixing a misted double glazing window can be a bit difficult and isn't something that should be attempted by anyone without an extensive understanding of the construction industry. However, if you're willing to tackle the challenge, then it's possible to repair a misted sealed unit by adding moisture absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Remember that this is only a temporary fix and the condensation might return. repair double glazing will have to be repeated. It's more efficient to replace a misted glass unit and will be much cleaner and quicker. Replacements can also help restore the original insulation of your home which isn't possible in a repair. If you're experiencing misty windows and condensation, we recommend contacting a reputable company that offers double glazing. In the meantime, you can try to keep your windows as dry as they can by making sure they're well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
No matter if they are brand new or old, double-glazed windows must not leak. Leaking windows aren't just an inconvenience but can cause significant damage to your home including the development of mold, structural damage and increased heating and cooling costs. If you suspect that your windows are leaking call a reputable window repair service as soon as possible to get the issue fixed.
Window leaks can be an indication that the seals between glass panes are not working correctly. If you see condensation between the panes, it's a sure sign that the seal on your window has deteriorated and that moisture is seeping into the insulation gap between the glass. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However should the issue persist and is evident on your home's exterior or interior, it is time to contact an expert repair service.
Another common cause of leaks is the accumulation of water at the bottom of the frame of your window. This could be a sign of clogged drain holes, improper flashing, or a sloped sill. A drainage hole that is clogged can be easily fixed by using a coat hanger made of wire to clean out the gunk. With roofing caulk, you can easily repair flashing that is not properly installed. A faulty pitch could be the cause of an inclined window sill to one side. A professional window repair service will be able identify the cause 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 hire an expert to repair your double glazing. They can restore your windows' appearance and functionality to what they were when they first were introduced. They can also replace handles, hinges and locks, if needed. Professional window repair companies will offer you a guarantee for their work. You would not get this if you tried to fix the windows yourself.
The difficulty of opening
If you find that your windows are getting harder to open, call the company where you purchased them. In most cases, a simple repair can fix the problem. If the issue continues to persist, you should consider replacing your windows with windows that are more modern in design. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer the latest technology to keep your home warm and secure, such as slimline uPVC or aluminium frames, advanced insulation to stop heat from escaping, and innovative security hardware to deter intruders.
Another common sign that your double glazing requires repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is due to a failure of the seals that separate the two panes. Inert gases are supposed to escape between the panes of glass and then be replaced by moist air. This keeps your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals might have become damaged or simply broken down and this could happen in time as a result of changing weather conditions or other causes.
A draft coming from your double-glazed window another sign that the seals have failed, indicating that cold air is leaking into your home. This could lead to higher energy costs, since your heating system will need to work harder to keep the temperature in your home steady.
In certain situations a draught may be fixed by lubricating hinges or handles on windows or doors that are double-glazed. However, it is important to remember that this is only a temporary fix and if the issue persists, then you'll need to contact a professional.
To prevent condensation, you can install ventilation in your windows and door for reducing condensation, such as air bricks or extractors. It is also important to allow your double-glazed doors and windows to breathe by leaving them open as much as feasible, which can be achieved with trickle vents.