How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
You should make sure that your double-glazed window frames regularly inspected, especially when they are shrinking or expanding. This can reduce the possibility of drafts.
If you see condensation between the glass panes, the seal could be failing and should be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation, but it will also help to reduce the cost of energy.
Cracked or broken panes
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage. It is susceptible to developing problems that could reduce the efficiency of energy. Repairing double-glazing is an simple process however, you'll require the right tools and knowledge to do it right. It is recommended to hire a professional company to complete the task rather than trying it yourself.
A cracked or broken pane is the most common problem with double-glazed windows. A knock or a blow from the outside can trigger this, as could attempts to open a stuck-closed window. Glass can break or crack into pieces based on its size and the force used to crack it.
You can repair a double-glazed glass window that is prone to cracking by using special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack from spreading or becoming worse and it will stop any water, wind or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Condensation in double-glazed windows is another common problem and is often the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a common occurrence that happens due to weather and temperature changes. Before attempting to repair your windows, make sure to see if they are still covered by the warranty.
Typically, this is covered by the company you bought your double glazing from so it is crucial to contact them promptly and clearly explain the issue. It is recommended to do this in writing rather than by phone or text message Keep an original copy of the correspondence.
If you're looking to try and fix a window that has become misty yourself, a typical procedure is to drill a hole into the centre of the affected pane. A special desiccant is put in to absorb moisture which can aid in helping the condensation issue to heal itself. However, this is only a temporary solution and it is recommended to have your double-glazed windows replaced with new units as soon as possible.
Misty Panes
Double glazed windows that mist up can be a real troublesome issue that can cause major disruptions in your home. If you can pinpoint the issue it's fairly easy to repair. Most of the time, the root of the issue is a defect in the seals between your window panes, allowing moisture to get in. Poor installation or drainage issues, or even defective seals from the window manufacturer can trigger this problem.
Standard sealed units comprise of two glass panes with a hollow spacer bar inserted between them (shown in the image above). The face of the bar is perforated, and the spacer bars are filled with a desiccant, that is used to absorb any moisture that gets into the unit. The two glass panes are then sealed together and the whole unit is filled with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can see, if the seal fails, moisture can get between the panes causing condensation and mist. This could also result in the heat from your home being lost which could lead to an enormous amount of money squandered in energy bills.
Repairing a window that has been misted is a difficult task that should not be attempted by anyone who isn't well-versed in the construction and glazing industries. However, if you are willing to take on the challenge then it is possible to repair a misted sealed unit by adding a moisture absorbing desiccant back into the space between the glass panes.
Remember 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 will also be much more hygienic and faster. A replacement will also help restore the original insulation of your house that isn't accessible with repairs. If you are experiencing misted windows or condensation, we recommend contacting an experienced company that can provide double glazing. In the meantime, you can try to keep your windows as dry as you can by ensuring that they are properly ventilated and being cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
No matter if they are brand new or old, double-glazed windows should not leak. Leaking windows aren't only a nuisance, but can also cause serious damage to your home. This can include the growth of mold and structural damage as well as the cost of heating and cooling. If you suspect a leak you should contact a professional window repair service as soon as possible to get the issue under control.
Window leaks are a sign that the seals between glass panes aren't working properly. If you notice condensation between the panes of glass, it is a sign that the seal between the two panes has deteriorated. The moisture is now leaking through the insulating space between the two panes. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However should the issue persist and is visible on the exterior or interior of your home, it is time to call a repair service.
Another reason for leaks is the accumulation of water on the bottom frame of your window. This can be an indication of blocked drain holes, improper flashing or an uneven sill. A drainage hole that is clogged is simple to fix using a coat hanger made of wire to clean out the gunk. Using double glazing window repair , it is easy to repair flashing that is not properly installed. If the window sill slopes to one side it may be due to an improper pitch. A professional window repair service will determine the root of the issue and provide an affordable and quick solution.
It is not unusual for UPVC windows that are older to break or leak. However it is more economical and efficient to hire an expert to repair your double glazing. They can restore your windows' appearance and functionality to how they were when they first were introduced. They can also replace hinges, handles, and locks, if needed. Professional window repair companies will offer you a warranty on their work. You wouldn't get this if you tried to repair the windows yourself.
It is difficult to open
If you notice that your windows are getting difficult to open, you should contact the company from whom you purchased them. In most cases the issue is fixable with a simple fix. If the issue continues to persist then you should think about replacing your windows with new windows that are more modern in design. Double-glazed windows are available with state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, such as slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium, advanced insulation to stop the heat from escape, and sophisticated security hardware that stop intruders from entering your home.
Another indication that your double glazing needs repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is caused by a failure of the seals which separate the two panes. Inert gases are designed to escape between the panes of glass and then be replaced by moist air. This keeps your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this isn't happening the seals could have degraded or simply broken down in some way, which may happen over time as a result of changing weather conditions or other elements.
A draft coming from a double-glazed window could be a sign the seals aren't working which means cold air is coming into your home. This can also lead to more expensive energy bills as your heating will have to perform harder to keep the temperature of your home stable.
In certain cases, a draught can be fixed by lubricating the hinges, handles, or mechanisms on your double-glazed doors or windows. But, it is important to remember that this is temporary fix. If the issue persists, you will need to seek out the experts.
You can also install ventilation, such as extractors, air bricks or vents in your windows and doors to alleviate condensation issues. It is also recommended to allow your double-glazed doors and windows to breathe, which is possible with trickle vents.