How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea to have your double-glazed windows checked frequently, particularly if you find that the frames are expanding or contracting. This will reduce the risk of drafts.
If you find condensation 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 is not impervious to damage and it is possible for faults to occur that can reduce the energy efficiency of windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a relatively easy process, however the right tools and skills are needed to perform top-quality repairs. It is normally best to use a professional firm to do the work rather than attempting it yourself.
The most common issue that can affect a double-glazed window is a cracked or broken pane. It could be the result of a blow or knock on the frame from outside or a failed attempt to open windows that are shut. The glass might break or crack into small pieces, based on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
Repairing a double-glazed glass window that is prone to cracking using a special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack growing or becoming worse, and also stop water, wind or any other elements from entering your home through cracks.
Condensation in double-glazed windows is another frequent issue and this is often the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a common occurrence that occurs due to temperatures and weather conditions. Before you attempt to repair your windows, you should see if they are still covered under warranty.
Typically, this will be covered by the company that you purchased your double glazing from so it is important to contact them quickly and clearly explain the issue. It is recommended to do this in writing instead of by phone or text message, and always keep the copy of your correspondence.
If you're looking to try and fix a damaged or misted window yourself, a common procedure is to drill through the middle of the damaged pane. The desiccant absorbs any moisture and aid in resolving the issue. However this is a temporary solution and it is recommended that you have your double-glazed windows replaced with new units as soon as you can.
Misty Panes
Double-glazed windows that fog up can be a huge nuisance and cause major disruptions in your home. If you can pinpoint the issue it's easy to fix. Most often, the cause of the problem is a problem with the seals between your window panes, which allows moisture to get in. This can be caused by poor installation, drainage issues or even defective seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units consist of two glass panes that have a hollow spacer bar inserted 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 in order to absorb moisture. The two glass panes will then be sealed and the whole unit will be filled with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails then moisture can get in between the panes, and this can cause condensation and even mist. This could also cause heat to escape your property, which could result in a substantial amount of money being lost due to energy bills.
Unfortunately, fixing the misted double glazing window can be a bit difficult and shouldn't be attempted by anyone who doesn't have an extensive understanding of the construction industry. If you are willing to take on the challenge, it's possible to fix the misted seal of a window by putting in moisture-absorbing desiccant into the gap between the glass panels.
Remember that this is a temporary fix, and the condensation might occur again. The process will need to be repeated. It is more efficient to replace a misted unit. It's also cleaner and faster. Replacements will restore the original insulation of your home, which is not possible with a repair. If you are experiencing misted windows or condensation, we recommend contacting an experienced company that can provide double glazing. In the meantime, you can try to keep your windows as dry as they can by ensuring that they are well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows shouldn't leak, no matter if they are old or new. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but could also cause serious damage to your home. This can include the growth of mold, structural damage, and higher heating and cooling costs. If you suspect a leak you should contact a professional window repair service as quickly as you can to get the problem under control.
Window leaks are usually a sign of an issue with the seals between panes of glass. If you notice condensation between the glass panes it's an indication that the seal between the two panes has deteriorated. Moisture is now flowing through the insulating space that is between the two panes. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However when the issue persists and appears on your home's exterior or interior it is the right time to call in a repair service.
Water collecting at the bottom of your window frame is another common reason for leaks. This could be a sign of blocked drain holes, improper flashing or an uneven sill. It is easy to clear a clogged drainage hole by using a coat hanger. By using roofing caulk, you can repair flashing that is not properly installed. A wrong pitch could be the reason of a window sill that slopes to one side. A professional window repair company will be able to determine the reason and provide an efficient, quick and cost-effective solution.
It is not uncommon for UPVC windows that are older to leak or break. However it is more economical and efficient to hire a double glazing repair service. They can bring back the appearance and function of your windows to what they were like when they were new. They can also replace hinges, handles, and locks if required. Professional window repair companies will offer you a guarantee for their work. You wouldn't get this if you tried to fix windows on your own.
Difficulty of Opening
If you find that your windows are becoming harder to open, contact the company where you purchased the windows. In the majority of cases, a simple fix can fix the problem. If the problem persists, you may want to think about replacing your windows with newer ones. Double-glazed windows are available with state-of-the-art features that will keep your home safe and warm, including slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium and advanced insulation to prevent the heat from escape, and innovative security equipment to stop intruders from entering your home.
Another sign that your double glazing is in need of repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is due to a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gases are supposed to escape between the panes of glass and then be replaced by humid air. This will keep your windows in a breathable state and be energy efficient. If this isn't happening the seals might have become damaged or broken in some way, which may happen in time as a result of weather changes or other causes.
A draft coming from your double-glazed window is an indication that the seals have failed, which means that cold air is getting into your home. This can also result in higher energy costs since your heating system has to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
In certain cases, a draught can be fixed by lubricating handles, hinges or mechanisms on your double-glazed doors or windows. But, it is important to keep in mind that this is only a temporary fix and if the issue persists, you will need to call in the experts.
double glazing repair near me can also add ventilation, such as extractors, air bricks or vents in your windows and doors, to help with condensation issues. It is also important to allow your double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by leaving them open as much as possible, which can be accomplished by trickle vents.