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 risk of draughts.
If you find condensation between the panes this is an indication that the seal is failing and needs to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation but will also save on energy bills.
Cracked or broken Panes
Double glazing is not indestructible. It is susceptible to developing defects that could decrease the efficiency of energy. Repairing double-glazing can be an easy process, but you will require the proper tools and experience to do it properly. It is generally recommended to hire a professional company to do the work rather than trying it yourself.
The most common issue that occurs with double-glazed windows is a cracked or broken pane. A knock or a blow from the outside can cause this, as could the attempt to open a closed window that is stuck. The glass could break or crack into small pieces, based on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
Repairing double-glazed glass that is susceptible to cracking using a special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack extending or getting worse, and will prevent the elements of wind, water or other elements from entering your home through cracks.
double glazing repairs cost in double-glazed windows is another common problem and this is often the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a natural phenomenon that can occur due to varying temperatures and weather conditions, therefore it is important to check whether your windows are in warranty before you attempt to fix them.
Typically, this will be covered by the company you bought your double glazing from so it is important to contact them immediately and clearly explain the issue. This is best done in writing, rather than by text or phone. Always keep the original.
If you want to try and fix a window that has become misty yourself, a common method is to drill an opening in the centre of the damaged pane. A special desiccant is inserted to absorb any moisture which can aid in helping the condensation problem to resolve itself. However this is an interim solution, and it is recommended to get your double-glazed windows replaced by new windows 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 fairly easy to repair. In most cases, the problem is due to a problem in the seals which separate the window panes. This allows moisture be able to get. 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 by a hollow spacer (shown above). The face of the spacer bar is perforated. the bars that are used as spacers are filled with a desiccant, which helps to absorb any moisture that is absorbed into the unit. The two glass panes are sealed together and the whole unit is filled with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails, moisture can enter between the panes and could cause condensation and mist. This can also cause heat to escape your property, which could result in a significant amount of money being lost due to energy bills.
Repairing a window that has been misted is a tricky job that should not be attempted by a person who doesn't have a solid understanding in the construction and glazing industries. If you are willing to take on the challenge, it's possible to repair a misted sealed window by adding moisture-absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panels.
Remember that this is a temporary fix and the condensation might return. The process will need to be repeated. It's much more efficient to replace misted glass units and it will also be much cleaner and quicker. A replacement will bring back the original insulation of your home, which is not possible through a repair. We suggest getting in touch with a reputable double-glazing company if you're having trouble with condensation and misted windows. In the meantime, try to keep your windows as dry as you can by ensuring that they are well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
No matter if they are brand new or old, double glazed windows should not leak. Leaking windows are not only an inconvenience but can cause serious damage to your home such as mold development and structural damage, as well as increased heating and cooling costs. Contact a professional window company as soon as you notice a issue.
Window leaks can be an indication that the seals between glass panes aren't working properly. If you see condensation between the panes this is a sure sign that your window seal has been damaged and that water is leaking into the insulation gap between the glass. Although a small amount of condensation is normal, if it continues to grow and becomes visible on the interior or exterior of your home, it's time to get a repair service in.
Another reason for leaks is water collecting on the bottom of the frame of your window. This could be a sign of blocked drain holes, improper flashing, or an uneven sill. A clogged drainage hole can be easily fixed by using a wire coat hanger to remove the gunk. Improper flashing is also easy to fix by using roofing caulk to fill the gaps around the frame. A faulty pitch could be the cause of the window sill sloping to one side. A professional window repair company will be able to determine the cause and provide a fast, cost-effective solution.
While it is not unusual for old UPVC windows to fail or leak however, it is more cost-effective and efficient to get a professional double glazed repair service. They can bring your windows' appearance and function to the way they were when they first were released. They can even replace handles, hinges and locks if required. Professional window repair firms will give you a guarantee for their work. You wouldn't get this if you were to repair windows on your own.
The difficulty of opening
If you find that your windows are becoming more difficult to open, call the company that sold you the windows. In most cases, a simple fix can fix the problem. If the issue persists then you should look at replacing your windows with more modern ones. New double glazed windows offer state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, including slimline uPVC or aluminium frames, advanced insulation to stop heat from escaping, as well as innovative security hardware to deter intruders.
Another sign that your double glazing is in need of repairs is condensation between the glass panes. This is caused by a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gas is supposed to get into the glass and replace it with moist air, making sure that your windows are airtight and thermally efficient. If this isn't happening the seals might have become damaged or even broken, which is something that can occur over time as a result of weather changes or other factors.
A draft that is coming from a double-glazed window could also indicate that the seals aren't working and cold air is coming into your home. This could lead to higher energy costs, since your heating system will need to be more efficient to keep the temperature in your home stable.
In some cases a draught may be resolved by lubricating the hinges, handles, or mechanisms on your double-glazed windows or doors. It is crucial to note that this is a temporary solution and you will need to contact the experts when the issue persists.
You can also put in ventilation devices, like extractors, air bricks or vents in your windows and doors, to help with the issue of condensation. It is also essential to allow double-glazed doors and windows to breathe by leaving them open as much as possible. This can be achieved with trickle vents.