How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea inspect your double-glazed windows regularly, especially if notice the frames are contracting or expanding. This will decrease the risk of drafts.
If you notice condensation 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 also save on energy bills.
Broken or cracked Panes
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage. It can experience faults that can reduce the energy efficiency. Repairing double-glazing is an simple task, but you will require the right tools and expertise to complete it right. It is recommended to work with a professional firm to do the work rather than attempting it yourself.
A cracked or broken pane is the most frequent problem for double-glazed windows. This could be a result of a knock or blow to the frame from the outside, or from an attempt to open a window that is stuck shut. The glass might break or crack into small pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force that is applied to it.
If the double-glazed window is susceptible to cracking, it can be repaired by using a specific type of putty or special tape. This will prevent the crack growing or becoming worse, and will stop water, wind or any other elements from getting into your home through the cracks.
Another issue that is common is condensation in double-glazed windows. It is usually the result of a broken window seal. It is a natural occurrence that can occur due to varying temperatures and weather conditions, which is why it is crucial to confirm that your windows are under warranty before attempting to fix them.
Typically, this is covered by the company you purchased your double glazing from so it is essential to contact them quickly and clearly explain the issue. This should be done in writing instead of via text or phone. Always keep a copy.
Drilling a hole into the center of a misted pane is a popular way to repair it yourself. The desiccant will absorb any moisture and aid in resolving the problem. This is a temporary solution and it is recommended you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as is possible.
Misted Panes
Double-glazed windows that fog up can be a huge nuisance and cause major disruptions to your home. It is, however, relatively easy to resolve the issue once you know the root of the issue. 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 due to poor installation, drainage issues or even faulty seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units comprise two glass panes sandwiched with an open spacer (shown above). The inside of this spacer bar is perforated. the bars that are used as spacers are filled with a desiccant, that is used to absorb any moisture that is absorbed into the unit. The two glass panes will be bonded together, and the entire unit will be injected with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine if the seal fails, moisture could get between the panes causing condensation and mist. This can also result in heat escaping your property which can add up to an enormous amount of money being lost in energy costs.
Unfortunately, fixing double glazing windows that have been misted isn't easy and isn't something that should be attempted by anyone who doesn't have the necessary knowledge of the glazing industry and construction industry. If you are willing to tackle the challenge, it's possible to repair a misted sealed window by adding moisture-absorbing desiccant to the space between the glass panels.
Be aware that this is a temporary fix and the condensation could be back. The process will have to be repeated. It's far more effective to replace misted glass units and will be much cleaner and quicker. A replacement will restore the original insulation to your home, which is not possible with a repair. We recommend getting in touch with a reputable double-glazing firm if you're experiencing condensation and misty windows. In the meantime, try to keep your windows as dry as you can by making sure they're properly ventilated and being cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows should not leak, no matter if they are new or old. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but they could also cause serious damage to your home. This can include the growth of mold, structural damage, and the cost of heating and cooling. If you suspect a leak call a reputable window repair company as soon as possible to get the issue fixed.
Window leaks are an indication that the seals between glass panes are not functioning correctly. If you notice condensation between the glass panes, it is an indication that the seal between the two panes has become weaker. The moisture is now leaking through the insulation space between the two panes. While a little condensation is normal, if it is persistent and becomes visible on the outside or inside of your house, it's time to call a repair service in.
Water accumulating at the bottom of your window frame is another common cause of leaks. This could be an indication of drainage holes that are blocked or flashing that is not properly installed or an unbalanced sill. It is simple to clear a blocked drain hole by using a coat hanger. Flashing that isn't properly installed is also simple to fix using roofing caulk to fill the gaps in the frame. A wrong pitch could be the cause of an inclined window sill to one side. A professional window repair service can identify the reason and provide an immediate, 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 hire a double glazing repair service. They can bring your windows' appearance and functionality to how they were when they first were introduced. They can even replace hinges, handles, and locks if required. A reputable window repair service will also offer a type of warranty for their work, which you will not be able to get if you tried to fix the window yourself.
Difficulty to Open
If you notice that your windows are becoming difficult to open, you must get in touch with the company from whom you purchased windows. Most of the time, the problem is fixable by an easy fix. If the issue persists and you are unable to resolve it, 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 frames made of aluminium and advanced insulation to prevent heat from escaping, and sophisticated security hardware that deter intruders.
Another indication that your double glazing requires repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is caused by an issue with the seals which separate the two panes. Inert gas is supposed be able to escape between the glass and replace it with moist air, ensuring that your windows remain well-insulated and thermally efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals may have deteriorated or simply broken down in some way, which could happen in the course of time because of weather changes or other factors.
A draft that is coming from a double-glazed window can also be a sign that the seals aren't working, which means that cold air is leaking into your home. This could lead to more expensive energy bills as your heating system will need to perform harder to keep the temperature in your home stable.
In local double glazing repairs could be fixed by lubricating hinges or handles on windows or doors that are double-glazed. It is important to remember that this is a temporary solution, and you'll be required to consult with a professional when the issue persists.
You can also put in ventilation, such as extractors, air bricks, or vents in your doors and windows, to help with condensation issues. It is also recommended to allow your double-glazed doors and windows to breathe, which can be achieved with trickle vents.