How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is recommended to have your double-glazed window frames inspected regularly, particularly when they are shrinking or expanding. This will decrease the risk of draughts.
If you notice condensation appearing between the glass panes, the seal may be failing and should be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation, but it will also save on energy bills.
Broken or cracked Panes
Double glazing is not impervious to damage and it is possible for faults to occur that can reduce the energy efficiency of the windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a relatively easy process, however the right tools and expertise are required to carry out high-quality repairs. It is recommended to get a professional perform the work rather than attempting to do it yourself.
The most frequent issue that can affect a double-glazed window is a broken or cracked pane. A blow or knock from the outside can trigger this, as can the attempt to open a window that is closed. The glass could break or crack into smaller pieces, based on the size of the crack and the force that is applied to it.
You can repair double-glazed glass windows that is susceptible to cracking using a special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack from spreading or getting worse. It will stop any moisture, wind or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Another issue that is common is condensation in double glazing. This is usually the result of a broken window seal. It is a normal occurrence that is caused by temperature and weather changes. Before attempting to repair your windows, make sure to see if they are still covered under warranty.
This is usually covered by the company that sold you your double glazing, so it is important to contact them immediately and explain the problem clearly. It is best to address this in writing rather than via text message or phone, and always keep a copy of your correspondence.
Drilling a hole in the centre of a misted pane is a popular method of fixing it yourself. A desiccant that is specially designed is placed in the hole to absorb any moisture and this can help the condensation issue to get rid of itself. However, this is only a temporary solution and it is recommended to have your double-glazed windows replaced with new units whenever possible.
Misty Panes
If double-glazed windows begin getting misty, it can be a real trouble and can cause major disruption in your home. Once you identify the cause, it's relatively simple to repair. In the majority of cases the problem is caused by a flaw in the seals that protect your window panes. This allows moisture get into. This can be caused by poor installation, drainage problems or even faulty seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units are made up of two glass panes with a hollow spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the above image). 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 comes into the unit. The two glass panes will be bonded together and the whole unit will be injected with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails, then moisture could get between the panes, and this can create condensation and mist. This could result in heat escaping from your property, which could result in a significant amount of money lost on energy bills.
Unfortunately, repairing a misted double glazing window can be a bit difficult and isn't something that should be attempted by anyone who doesn't have the necessary knowledge of the construction industry. If you're willing to tackle the challenge, it's possible to fix a sealed window that has been misted by adding moisture-absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panels.
Be aware that this is only a temporary fix and the condensation might occur again. The process will need to be repeated. It is much more effective to replace an affected unit. It will also be more efficient and cleaner. Replacements can also bring back the original insulation of your house that isn't accessible in repair. If you're experiencing misty windows and condensation, we suggest contacting an experienced company that can provide double glazing. While you wait, keep your windows as clean and dry as you can.
Water Leaks
No matter if they are brand new or old, double-glazed windows should not leak. Leaking windows aren't just an inconvenience, but can also cause serious damage to your home. This includes mold growth, structural damage, and the cost of heating and cooling. Contact a professional window company as soon you suspect a issue.
Window leaks can be a sign that the seals between glass panes aren't functioning properly. If you notice condensation between the glass panes, it is an indication that the seal between the two panes is deteriorating. The moisture is now leaking through the insulation space between the two panes. A small amount of condensation is normal. However when the issue persists and appears on the exterior or interior of your home then it's time to call a repair service.
double glazing repairs cost collecting at the bottom of your window frame is a typical cause of leaks. This can be an indication of clogged drain holes, improper flashing or a sloped sill. It is easy to clear a blocked drainage hole by using a coat hanger. Incorrect flashing is also easy to fix by using roofing caulk to fill the gaps in the frame. A misplaced pitch could be the reason of a window sill that slopes to one side. A reputable window repair company will be able to determine the root of the problem and offer a fast, cost-effective solution.
It is not uncommon 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 bring your windows' appearance and functionality to how they were when they first were released. They can even replace hinges, handles, and locks, if needed. A reputable window repair service will also give you some kind of guarantee for their work, which you will not receive if you tried to fix the window yourself.
The difficulty of opening
If you notice that your windows are getting difficult to open, you should contact the company from whom you purchased windows. In most cases the issue can be solved with an easy fix. If the issue persists and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with contemporary designs. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer the latest features to keep your home secure and warm. These include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames with high-tech insulation that prevents heat from escaping, as well as innovative security equipment.
Another common sign that your double glazing needs 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 designed to escape between the panes of glass and be replaced by moist air. This will keep your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this isn't happening, the seals might have become damaged or simply broken down and this could happen in the course of time because of changing weather conditions or other causes.
A draft coming from a double-glazed window could also indicate that the seals are failing, which means that cold air is leaking into your home. This can also lead to more expensive energy bills as your heating system will need to perform harder to keep the temperature inside your home steady.
In certain cases, the draught could be solved by lubricating the hinges, handles or mechanisms on double-glazed windows or doors. However, it is important to remember that this is only temporary fix. If the issue persists, then you'll have to seek out the experts.
You can also put in ventilation devices, like air bricks, extractors or vents in your windows and doors to alleviate the issue of condensation. It is also important to allow double-glazed doors and windows to breathe, which you can achieve by using trickle vents.