How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
You should ensure that your double-glazed window frames are checked regularly, especially in the event that they are expanding or shrinking. This will decrease the risk of draughts.
If you notice condensation between the panes, this indicates that the seal is failing and needs to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only help to reduce condensation but will also reduce energy costs.
Cracked or Broken Panes
Double glazing is not indestructible. It can experience defects that could decrease the energy efficiency. Repairing double-glazing can be an easy process, but you will require the right tools and expertise to complete it properly. It is generally recommended to use a professional firm to perform the work rather than attempting it yourself.
A broken or cracked window is the most common problem for double-glazed windows. It could be the result of a knock or blow on the frame from outside or an attempt to open the window that is shut. The glass may break or crack into small pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
You can repair double-glazed glass windows that is susceptible to cracking by using special tape or putty. This will stop the crack from growing or becoming worse, and will prevent water, wind or any other elements from getting into your home through the cracks.
Condensation in double-glazed windows is a different issue that is common and this is often the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a normal occurrence that happens due to weather and temperature changes. Before you attempt to repair your windows, you should determine if they are covered by the warranty.
Typically, this will be covered by the company that you purchased the double glazing from. Therefore, it is important to contact them immediately and explain the issue clearly. It is best to do this in writing rather than by phone or text message Keep the 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. The desiccant will absorb moisture and will help solve the problem. However it is temporary solution, and it is recommended to get your double-glazed windows replaced with new windows as soon as possible.
Misty Panes
Double glazed windows that mist up can be a real issue and cause major disruptions to your home. Once you identify the cause it's easy to repair. In most cases the issue is caused by a failure in the seals which separate the window panes. This allows moisture enter. Poor installation or drainage issues or damaged seals made by the window manufacturer can trigger this problem.
Standard sealed units are made up of two glass panes with a hollow spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the image above). The inner surface of the spacer bar has been perforated, and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to absorb any moisture. The two glass panes will be sealed, and the entire unit will be filled with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails, moisture could get between the panes causing condensation and mist. This could also result in the heat from your home being lost which could result in significant amounts of money being lost in energy bills.
Unfortunately, fixing a misted double glazing window can be a little tricky and shouldn't be attempted by those who don't have extensive knowledge of the glazing industry and construction industry. If you're prepared to take on the challenge, then it's possible to fix a misted sealed unit by adding moisture absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Keep in mind, however this is temporary solution, and the condensation will likely to return and the process might need to be repeated. It's much more efficient to replace a misted glass unit and will be much cleaner and quicker. Replacements will bring back the original insulation of your home it is not possible by repairing. We recommend getting in touch with a reputable double glazing company if you're having trouble with condensation and misted windows. While you wait, make sure to keep your windows as dry and clean as you can.
Water Leaks
Double glazed windows shouldn't leak, no matter if they are old or new. Leaking windows aren't just an inconvenience, but they could also cause serious damage to your home. This includes mold growth as well as structural damage and increased heating and cooling bills. Contact a professional window company as soon as you suspect a issue.
Window leaks are usually indications of a problem with the seals between panes of glass. If you notice condensation between the panes of glass it's an indication that the seal between the two panes has deteriorated. Moisture is now seeping through the insulating space that is between the two panes. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However when the issue persists and is evident on your home's interior or exterior it is the right time to call in an expert repair service.
local double glazing repair of water at the bottom of your window frame is another common cause of leaks. This could be a sign of clogged drain holes, improper flashing or a sloped sill. A clogged drainage hole is simple to fix using a coat hanger made of wire to remove the gunk. Incorrect flashing is also easy to fix using roofing caulk to fill the gaps around the frame. A misplaced pitch could be the cause of a window sill that slopes to one side. A professional window repair company will be able to identify the cause and provide an immediate, cost-effective solution.
While it is not uncommon for old UPVC windows to leak or break but it is more cost-effective and efficient to hire a professional double glazed repair service. They can restore the look and function of your windows to what they were like when they were brand new. They can even replace handles, hinges and locks if required. A reputable window repair service will also provide you with a form of guarantee for their work, which you could not get if you attempted to fix the window yourself.
Difficulty to Open
If you notice your windows are becoming more difficult to open, contact the company where you purchased them. In most instances, a simple repair can fix the problem. If the problem continues then you should think about replacing your windows with new, more modern designs. New double glazed windows offer modern features that keep your home safe and warm, including slimline uPVC or aluminium frames and advanced insulation to prevent heat from escaping, and innovative security hardware to keep out intruders.
Another sign that your double glazing needs repairs is condensation between the glass panes. This is due to a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gasses are supposed to escape between the two panes of glass and replaced by humid air. This keeps your windows in a breathable state and be energy efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals could have deteriorated over time due to weather conditions or other factors.
A draft coming from your double-glazed window an indication that the seals have failed, which means that cold air is getting into your home. This can also result in higher energy bills as your heating system has to work more to maintain the temperature of your home.
In certain cases, a draught can be fixed by lubricating hinges, handles or mechanisms of windows or doors that are double-glazed. It is crucial to keep in mind that this is temporary solution and if the problem 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 essential to allow your double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by leaving them open as much as possible, which can be achieved with trickle vents.