How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea to inspect your double-glazed windows regularly, especially if find that the frames are contracting or expanding. This will decrease the chance of drafts.
If you find condensation between the panes, this indicates that the seal is failing and has to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only help to reduce condensation, but it will also reduce energy costs.
Cracked or broken panes
Double glazing is not impervious to damage and it is possible for faults to occur that can affect the efficiency of energy-efficient windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a easy process, however the right tools and skills are needed to perform high-quality repairs. It is recommended to use a professional firm to complete the task rather than attempting it yourself.
A cracked or broken pane is the most frequent issue for double-glazed windows. It could be the result of a blow or knock on the frame from outside, or from an attempt to open windows that are closed. The glass could break or crack into smaller pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force that is applied to it.
If a double-glazed window is prone to cracking it can be repaired by using a specific type of putty or special tape. This will prevent the crack extending or getting worse, and will prevent water, wind or any other elements from getting into your home through the cracks.
Condensation in double glazing is another frequent issue and this is often the result of a break of the window seal. It is a normal phenomenon that is caused by weather and temperature changes. Before attempting to fix your windows, you should check if they're covered by warranty.
This will usually be covered by the company that sold you your double glazing, so it's important to contact them quickly and explain the problem clearly. It is best to address this in writing instead of by phone or text message, and always keep an original copy of the correspondence.
If you're interested in trying to fix and repair a misted window by yourself, a popular procedure is to drill a hole into the centre of the damaged pane. The desiccant will absorb moisture and help to solve the issue. However it is temporary solution, and it is recommended to get your double-glazed windows replaced by new windows as soon as possible.
Misty Panes
Double-glazed windows that mist up can be a huge issue and cause major disruptions to your home. However, it is fairly easy to fix the issue once you know what's causing it. Most often, the cause of the problem is a problem with the seals between the window panes, which allows moisture to enter. Poor installation, drainage issues or even faulty seals by the window manufacturer could cause this issue.
Standard sealed units comprise two glass panes sandwiched with a hollow spacer (shown above). The inner surface of the spacer bar has been perforated, and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to suck up any moisture. The two glass panes then are sealed together and the whole unit is injected with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the seal is damaged, moisture may get between the panes causing condensation and mist. This can also cause heat to escape your home, which could result in a significant amount of money being lost due to energy bills.
Repairing a misted window is a difficult task that should not be attempted by a person who isn't well-versed in the construction and glazing industries. If you're willing to take on the challenge, it's possible to repair a misted sealed window by adding moisture-absorbing desiccant to the space between the glass panels.
Bear in mind, though it's only a temporary solution and the condensation will likely to return and the process might need to be repeated. It is much more effective to replace a misted unit. It's also more efficient and cleaner. A replacement can also help restore the original insulation of your property that isn't accessible with a repair. If you're experiencing misty windows or condensation, we recommend contacting an established company that provides double glazing. In the meantime, you can try keeping your windows as dry as possible by ensuring they're properly ventilated and cleaning them regularly.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows should not leak, whether they are new or old. Leaking windows aren't only a nuisance but they can cause severe damage to your home, including mold development, structural damage and increased heating and cooling expenses. If you suspect that your windows are leaking call a reputable window repair service as soon as you can to get the problem under control.
Window leaks are an indication that the seals between glass panes are not functioning properly. If you notice condensation between the panes of glass it's an indication that the seal between the two panes is deteriorating. The moisture is now leaking through the insulating space between the two panes. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However when the issue persists and is visible on the exterior or interior of your home it is the right time to contact an expert repair service.
Water accumulating at the bottom of your window frame is a common cause of leaks. This can be an indication of drain holes that are blocked or flashing that isn't properly installed, or an uneven sill. It is simple to clean out a clogged drainage hole by using a coat hanger. Using repairs to double glazing , you can fix flashing that isn't working properly. If the window sill is sloped to one side, it could be due to an improper pitch. A reputable window repair company will be able to determine the reason and provide a fast, cost-effective solution.
It is not unusual for UPVC windows that are older to break or leak. However it is much more cost-effective and efficient to use an expert to repair your double glazing. They can restore the look and function of your windows back to how they were when they were new. They can replace hinges, locks and handles if needed. Professional window repair companies will give you a warranty on their work. You would not get this if you tried to fix windows on your own.
The difficulty of opening
If you notice that your windows are getting difficult to open, you should get in touch with the company from which you bought them. In most cases, the problem is fixable by an easy fix. If the issue continues to persist then you should think about replacing your windows with modern windows that are more modern in design. New double glazed windows offer state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, such as slimline uPVC or aluminium frames and advanced insulation to prevent heat from escaping, as well as innovative security equipment to stop intruders from entering your home.
Another common sign that your double glazing requires repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is due to an issue with the seals between the two panes. Inert gas is supposed seep out between the glass and replace it with moist air, ensuring that your windows remain in a thermally efficient and airtight state. If this doesn't happen, then the seals could have been damaged in the course of time due to weather conditions or other factors.
A draft coming from a double-glazed window could also be a sign that the seals aren't working which means cold air is getting in to your home. This can lead to higher energy bills as your heating system has to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home.
In certain cases a draught may be fixed by lubricating hinges handles, mechanisms or handles of windows or doors with double glazing. But, it is important to remember that this is only temporary fix. If the issue persists, you will need to seek out the experts.
You can also install ventilation, such as air bricks, extractors or vents in your windows and doors to assist with the issue of condensation. It is also important to let your double-glazed doors as well as windows to 'breathe,' which can be achieved with trickle vents.