How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea have your double-glazed windows inspected regularly, especially if notice the frames are expanding or contracting. This will reduce the chance of draughts.
If you find condensation in between the panes, it is a sign that the seal is failing and has to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation but will also help to reduce the cost of energy.
Cracked or broken panes
Double glazing is not impervious to damage and there are a few issues that can affect the energy efficiency of windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a easy process, however the right tools and expertise are required to carry out quality repairs. It is normally best to use a professional firm to do the work instead of attempting it yourself.
The most frequent issue that can affect a double-glazed window is a broken or cracked pane. This can be a result of a blow or knock on the frame from outside or a failed attempt to open windows that are shut. The glass may break or crack into small pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
If the double-glazed window is susceptible to cracking it can be repaired using a form of putty or tape. This will stop the crack from expanding or getting worse and will prevent the elements of wind, water or other elements from getting into your home through the cracks.
Another common problem is condensation in double-glazed windows. This is usually caused by a damaged window seal. It is a common occurrence that is caused by temperature and weather changes. Before you attempt to repair your windows, make sure to see if they are still covered under warranty.
It's usually covered by the company that sold you your double glazing, so it's important to contact them quickly and explain the problem clearly. This is best done in writing, rather than by text or phone. Always keep the original.
If you're interested in trying to fix and repair a misted window yourself, a typical procedure is to drill through the middle of the affected pane. The desiccant will absorb moisture and will help solve the problem. However, this is only an interim solution, and it is recommended to get your double-glazed windows replaced with new windows as soon as you can.
Misty Panes
When double glazed windows start misting up it can be a real issue and cause a significant disruption to your home. It is, however, relatively easy to resolve the issue once you understand what's causing it. In most cases the cause of the issue is a failure of the seals between the window panes, allowing 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 are made up of two glass panes that have an open spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the above image). The inner face of this spacer bar is perforated. the bars are filled with a desiccant which helps to absorb any moisture that comes into the unit. The two glass panes are sealed and the whole unit is injected with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails then moisture can get in between the panes and could cause condensation and mist. This can also result in the heat from your home being lost which could lead to a significant amount of money being lost in energy costs.
Repairing a window that has been misted 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 repair a sealed unit that has been misted by putting moisture-absorbing desiccant back into the gap between the glass panes.
Keep in mind that this is a temporary fix and the condensation may be back. The process will need to be repeated. It's more efficient to replace the misted glass and it will also be much more hygienic and faster. A replacement can also restore the original insulation of your house that isn't accessible in a repair. We recommend getting in touch with a reputable double glazing company if you're having trouble with condensation or misty windows. While you wait, make sure to keep your windows as dry and clean as possible.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows should not leak, no matter if they are old or new. Leaking windows are not only an inconvenience but can cause severe damage to your home including mold growth, structural damage and increased heating and cooling expenses. Contact a professional window company as soon you suspect that there is a problem.
Window leaks can be an indication that the seals between glass panes are not functioning correctly. If you notice condensation between the glass panes it's a sign that the seal between the two panes has become weaker. The moisture is now leaking through the insulation space between the two panes. While some condensation is normal, if it continues to grow and is visible on the outside or inside of your home, it's time to get a repair service in.
Another cause of leaks is water collecting at the bottom of the frame of your window. This can be a sign of clogged drainage holes or flashing that is not properly installed or an unbalanced sill. double glazing repairs is simple to clear a blocked drain hole by using a coat hanger. With roofing caulk, you can fix flashing that isn't working properly. If the window sill is sloped to one side, it could be due to an incorrect pitch. A reputable window repair company can identify the root of the problem and offer a fast, cost-effective solution.
It is not unusual for UPVC windows that are older to leak or break. However, it is more cost-effective and efficient to employ a double glazing repair service. They can restore the look and function of your windows to the way they were when they were brand new. They can even replace hinges, handles and locks, if needed. A professional window repair company will also offer a form of guarantee for their work, which you will not get if you attempted to repair the window yourself.
Achieving the Open
If you notice that your windows are becoming difficult to open, you should contact the company from whom you bought them. In the majority of cases, a simple fix can fix the problem. If the issue persists, you should consider replacing your windows with contemporary designs. Double-glazed windows are available with the most recent features to keep your home secure and warm. These include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames with high-tech insulation that blocks heat from escaping, as well as innovative security hardware.
Another sign that your double glazing is in need of repairs is condensation that forms between the panes of glass. This is due to an issue with the seals between the two panes. Inert gasses are supposed to escape between the two 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 could have deteriorated in the course of time due to changes in weather or other elements.
A draft coming from your double-glazed window another sign that the seals have failed, which means that cold air is leaked into your home. This can also result in higher energy bills as your heating system will have to work more to maintain the temperature in your home.
In some cases, a draught can be fixed by lubricating hinges handles, mechanisms or handles of your double-glazed doors or windows. But, it is important to keep in mind that this is only temporary fix. If the issue persists, you'll have to call in the experts.
You can also put in ventilation devices, like air bricks, extractors or vents in your windows and doors, to help with the issue of condensation. You should also allow your double-glazed doors and windows to breathe, which is possible by using trickle vents.