How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is recommended to have your double-glazed window frames regularly inspected, especially if they are shrinking or expanding. repairs to double glazing can reduce the possibility of drafts.
If you find condensation between the panes, this indicates that the seal is failing and needs to be replaced. The seal is able to be replaced to lessen condensation and save energy.
Cracked or broken panes
Double glazing is not indestructible and faults can occur which can reduce the efficiency of energy-efficient windows and doors. Repairing double-glazing can be an simple process however, you'll need the right tools and expertise to complete it correctly. It is normally best to hire a professional company to do the work instead of attempting it yourself.
The most frequent issue that occurs with double-glazed windows is a cracked or broken pane. This could be a result of a knock or blow on the frame from outside or a failed attempt to open the window that is closed. Glass can crack or break into pieces based on its size and the force that is used to break it.
If the double-glazed window is susceptible to cracking it can be repaired by using a type of putty or special tape. This will prevent the crack from spreading or getting worse. It will block any water, wind or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Another common problem is condensation in double glazing. It is usually the result of a broken window seal. It is a natural phenomenon that is caused by different temperatures and weather conditions, therefore it is essential to ensure whether your windows are in warranty before you attempt to fix them.
Typically, this issue will be covered by the company you bought your double glazing from so it is important to contact them promptly and explain the issue clearly. It is best to do this in writing rather than by text or phone and keep a copy of your correspondence.
If you want to try and fix a window that has become misty yourself, a common method involves drilling a hole into the centre of the affected pane. A desiccant that is specially designed is placed in the hole to absorb moisture and this can help the condensation issue to heal itself. This is only a temporary fix and it is recommended that you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as possible.
Misted Panes
When double glazed windows start misting up it can be a real issue and cause a significant disruptions to your home. However, it is relatively easy to resolve the issue once you know what's causing it. In most cases the cause of the problem is a problem with the seals between your window panes that allow moisture to enter. Poor installation or drainage issues or damaged seals made by the window manufacturer could cause this problem.
Standard sealed units are made up of two glass panes, with a hollow spacer bar inserted between them (shown in the image above). The inner surface of the spacer bar is perforated, and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to suck up any moisture. The two glass panes will then be sealed together, and the entire unit will be injected with gas in order to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails, then moisture can enter between the panes, and this can cause condensation and even mist. This can also cause heat to escape from your home, which could result in a substantial amount of money being lost due to energy bills.
However, fixing double glazing windows that have been misted isn't easy and shouldn't be attempted by anyone who doesn't have extensive knowledge of the construction industry. If you're willing to tackle the challenge, it's possible to fix the misted seal of a window by adding moisture-absorbing desiccant to the space between the glass panels.
Be aware that this is only a temporary fix and the condensation may return. The process will need to be repeated. It's more efficient to replace the misted glass and it's much more hygienic and faster. A replacement can also bring back the original insulation of your home which isn't possible in a repair. If you are experiencing misted windows and condensation, we suggest you contact an established company that provides double glazing. While you wait, make sure that your windows as clean and dry as you can.
Water Leaks
Whether they are new or old, double glazed windows should not leak. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but they could cause significant damage to your home including mold development, structural damage and increased heating and cooling expenses. If you suspect a leak, contact a professional window repair company as soon as you can in order to bring the issue under control.
Window leaks can be a sign that the seals between glass panes aren't functioning correctly. If you notice condensation between the panes, this is a sure sign that the seal on your window has become damaged and water is leaking into the insulating gap between the glass. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However when the issue persists and is visible on the exterior or interior of your home then it's time to call in an expert repair service.
The accumulation of water at the bottom of your window frame is a typical cause of leaks. This could be a sign of drainage holes that are blocked, improper flashing or a sloped sill. It is simple to clear a clogged drain hole using a coat hanger. Flashing that isn't properly installed is also simple to fix using roofing caulk to fill the gaps around the frame. A misplaced pitch could be the cause of the window sill sloping to one side. A professional window repair service can identify the cause of the issue and offer an affordable, fast solution.
Although it is not uncommon for old UPVC windows to break or leak, it is much more efficient and cost-effective to hire a professional double-glazed repair service. They can restore the look and functionality of your windows to how they were when they were new. They can even replace hinges, handles, and locks, if needed. A professional window repair company will also offer a type of warranty for their work, which you could not be able to get if you tried to repair the window yourself.
Difficulty to Open
If you find that your windows are becoming harder to open, contact the company where you purchased windows. Most of the time, the problem can be resolved with an easy fix. If the problem continues, you should consider replacing your windows with, more modern designs. Double-glazed windows are available with modern features that keep your home safe and warm, including slimline uPVC or aluminium frames and advanced insulation to prevent heat from escaping, as well as innovative security equipment to keep out intruders.
Another common sign that your double glazing is in need of repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is caused by a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gases are supposed to escape between the two panes of glass and be replaced by humid air. This will keep your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this doesn't happen, then the seals may have become less effective in the course of time due to changes in weather or other elements.
A draft from a double-glazed window can also indicate that the seals aren't working which means cold air is leaking into your home. This can also result in higher energy bills as your heating system will have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
In certain situations a draught may be fixed by lubricating the hinges or handles on your double-glazed doors or windows. It is crucial to note that this is a temporary solution and you will be required to consult with a professional in the event that the issue continues to persist.
To prevent condensation, you can put in ventilation in your doors and windows like extractors or air bricks. It is also important to allow double-glazed doors and windows to breathe by keeping them open as much as possible. This is possible with trickle vents.