How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
You should have your double-glazed window frames regularly inspected, especially when they are expanding or shrinking. This can reduce the chance of drafts.
If you notice condensation appearing between the glass panes, the seal may be failing and must be replaced. The seal is able to be replaced to lessen condensation and help save energy.
Broken or cracked panes
Double glazing is not indestructible. It is susceptible to developing defects that could decrease the efficiency of energy. Repairing double-glazing is a relatively simple task however, you'll require the proper tools and expertise to complete it right. It is generally recommended to work with a professional firm to perform the work instead of attempting it yourself.
The most common fault that occurs with double-glazed windows is a cracked or broken pane. It could be the result of a blow or knock to the frame from the outside or a failed attempt to open the window that is shut. Glass can crack or break into pieces depending on its size and the force used to crack it.
If windows with double glazing are susceptible to cracking it can be repaired with a specific type of putty or special tape. This will stop the crack from extending or getting worse. It will stop any wind, water or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Another common problem is condensation in double-glazed windows. It is usually caused by a damaged window seal. It is a natural occurrence that is caused by different temperatures and weather conditions, which is why it is essential to ensure whether your windows are under warranty prior to attempting to repair them.
This is usually covered by the company that provided you with the double glazing, therefore it's essential to contact them quickly and explain the problem clearly. It is best to address this in writing, rather than by phone or text message and keep the copy of your correspondence.
If you want to try and fix a window that has become misty yourself, a typical procedure is to drill a hole into the centre of the damaged pane. A special desiccant is then placed in the hole to absorb moisture and this can help the condensation issue to get rid of itself. However this is temporary solution, and it is recommended to have your double-glazed windows replaced with new units whenever possible.
Misted Panes
When double glazed windows start fogging up, it can be a huge pain and can cause significant disruption to your home. If you can pinpoint the issue it's easy to fix. In the majority of cases, the problem is caused by a flaw in the seals that protect the window panes. This allows moisture to enter. This could be caused by inadequate installation, drainage issues or even seals that are defective 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 face of the spacer bar is perforated and the spacer bars are filled with a desiccant which is there to absorb any moisture that comes into the unit. The two glass panes then be sealed together and the whole unit will be filled with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails then moisture can get in between the panes and this could cause condensation and mist. This can also result in the heat from your home being lost which could lead to a significant amount of money being lost in energy costs.
Unfortunately, fixing the misted double glazing window can be a bit difficult and shouldn't 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 putting in moisture-absorbing desiccant into the space between the glass panels.
Be aware, however this is an interim solution. The condensation will likely return, and the process could need to be repeated. It's much more efficient to replace an affected unit. It's also more efficient and cleaner. A replacement will restore the original insulation to your property and is not achievable through a repair. If you're experiencing misty windows and condensation, we suggest you contact an experienced company that can provide double glazing. In the meantime, consider to keep your windows as dry as you can by making sure they're well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double glazed windows shouldn't leak, regardless of whether they're new or old. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but they could also cause serious damage to your home. This includes the growth of mold, structural damage, and higher heating and cooling costs. If you suspect that your windows are leaking, contact a professional window repair company as soon as you can in order to bring the issue under control.
repair double glazing are usually an indication of a problem with the seals between panes of glass. If you notice condensation between the glass panes, it is an indication that the seal between the two panes is deteriorating. Moisture is now flowing through the insulating space that is between the two panes. While a little condensation is normal, if it persists and is visible on the exterior or interior of your home it is time to call an repair service.
Water accumulating at the bottom of your window frame is another typical cause of leaks. This could be a sign of drainage holes that are blocked or flashing that isn't properly installed, or an unbalanced sill. It is simple to clean out a clogged drain hole using a coat hanger. By using roofing caulk, it is easy to fix flashing that isn't working properly. If the window sill is sloped to one side, it could be due to an improper pitch. A reputable window repair company will be able to identify the root of the problem and offer an immediate, cost-effective solution.
Although it is not uncommon for old UPVC windows to leak or break however, 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 how they were when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges, handles and locks if necessary. A professional window repair service will also offer a form of guarantee for their work, which you will not be able to get if you tried to fix the window yourself.
Achieving the Open
If you notice that your windows are getting harder to open, call the company from which you purchased windows. In the majority of instances, a simple repair will resolve the issue. If the issue continues to persist, you should consider replacing your windows with new windows that are more modern in design. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, such as slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium and advanced insulation to prevent heat from escaping, and innovative security hardware to deter intruders.
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 that separate the two panes. Inert gases are supposed to escape between the two panes of glass and replaced by moist air. This will keep your windows in a breathable state and be energy efficient. If this isn't happening, the seals may have deteriorated or simply broken down and this may happen over time as a result of weather changes or other causes.
A draft that is coming from a double-glazed window can be a sign the seals are failing and cold air is getting into your home. This can lead to higher energy costs since your heating system will need to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home.
In some instances, the draught could be solved by lubricating the hinges, handles, or mechanisms on your double-glazed windows or doors. It is important to note that this is only a temporary solution and you'll be required to consult with a professional in the event that the issue continues to persist.
To prevent condensation, you can install ventilation in your windows and doors for reducing condensation, such as extractors or air bricks. It is also important to allow your double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by keeping them open as much as possible, which is possible with trickle vents.