How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea have your double-glazed windows checked regularly, especially if notice the frames are contracting or expanding. This can reduce the chance of draughts.
If you notice condensation between the glass panes, the seal may be failing and should be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only help to reduce condensation but will also help to reduce the cost of energy.
Cracked or Broken Panes
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage. It can develop problems that could reduce the efficiency of energy. Repairing double-glazing is an simple task, but you will require the proper tools and expertise to complete it correctly. It is recommended to use a professional firm to complete the task rather than 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 blow or knock to the frame from the outside or an attempt to open a window that is stuck shut. Glass can crack or break into pieces based on its size and the force that is used to crack it.
You can repair a double-glazed glass window that is susceptible to cracking with the help of special tape or putty. This will stop the crack from extending or getting worse, and also stop wind, water or other elements from entering your home through cracks.
Condensation of double glazing is a different issue that is common and is usually the result of a break of the 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 who sold you your double glazing, so it's important to contact them quickly and explain the problem clearly. This should be done in writing, rather than by phone or text. Always keep a copy.
Making a hole in the centre of a misted pane is an easy method to fix it yourself. A special desiccant is then inserted to absorb any moisture, and this will help the condensation issue to get rid of itself. This is a temporary solution and it is recommended you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as you can.
Misty Panes
If double-glazed windows begin getting misty, it can be a huge pain and can cause significant disruptions to your home. If you can pinpoint the issue it's easy to fix. In most cases the cause of the problem is a defect in the seals between your window panes, which allows moisture to enter. Poor installation or drainage issues or defective seals from the window manufacturer can trigger this issue.
Standard sealed units consist two glass panes, sandwiched by a hollow spacer (shown above). The inside of the spacer bar is perforated, and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to suck up any moisture. The two glass panes are sealed and the whole unit is filled with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can see, if the seal is damaged, moisture may get in between the panes and cause condensation and mist. This could also cause heat to escape from your property, which could result in a substantial amount of money lost on energy bills.
Repairing a misted glass is a tricky job that should not be attempted by someone who doesn't have a solid understanding in the glazing and construction industries. If you're willing to take on the challenge, it is possible to fix the misted seal of a window by adding moisture-absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panels.
Be aware, however it's only an interim solution. The condensation will likely return and the process might need to be repeated. It's much more effective to replace a misted unit. It's also quicker and more clean. A replacement will also restore the original insulation of your home which isn't available in a repair. If you are experiencing misted windows and condensation, we recommend contacting an established company that provides double glazing. In the meantime, consider keeping your windows as dry as possible by ensuring they're properly ventilated and cleaning them regularly.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows shouldn't leak, regardless of whether they're old or new. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but can cause serious damage to your home. This can include the growth of mold and structural damage as well as higher heating and cooling costs. If you suspect a leak you should contact a professional window repair company as soon as you can to get the issue under control.
Window leaks are an indication that the seals between glass panes are not functioning properly. If you notice condensation between the panes it is a sure indication that your window seal has become damaged and water is leaking into the gaps between the glass's insulating. While some condensation is normal, if it is persistent and becomes visible on the exterior or interior of your home it is time to have repairs done.
Water collecting at the bottom of your window frame is another common cause of leaks. This can be a sign of clogged drainage holes, improper flashing or an unbalanced sill. A drainage hole that is blocked is easy to fix by using a coat hanger made of wire to clean out the gunk. With roofing caulk, you can easily repair flashing that is not properly installed. A faulty pitch could be the cause of an inclined window sill to one side. A professional window repair service will be able to identify the root of the problem and offer an immediate, cost-effective solution.
While it is not uncommon for old UPVC windows to leak or break, it is much more cost-effective and efficient to hire a professional double glazed repair service. They can bring back the appearance and function of your windows back to how they were when they were brand new. They can even replace hinges, handles, and locks if required. A reputable window repair service will also provide you with a form of guarantee for their work, which you would not be able to get if you tried to repair the window yourself.
Difficulty of Opening
If you notice that your windows are getting difficult to open, it is best to contact the company from whom you bought windows. In most cases the issue is fixable by an easy fix. If local double glazing repairs continues to persist, you may want to look at replacing your windows with newer ones. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer the most recent features to ensure your home is secure and warm. These include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames that have advanced insulation that stops heat from escape and cutting-edge security hardware.
Another common sign that your double glazing requires repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is caused by a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gas is supposed be able to escape between the glass and replace it with moist air, making sure that your windows remain well-insulated and thermally efficient. If this isn't happening the seals could have degraded or simply broken down in some way, which may happen in time as a result of weather changes or other causes.
A draft coming from the double-glazed windows is another sign that the seals have failed, meaning that cold air is leaked into your home. This can also lead to higher energy bills, as your heating system will need to work harder to keep the temperature in your home steady.
In some cases a draught may be resolved by lubricating hinges, handles, or mechanisms on double-glazed windows or doors. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is only temporary fix. If the problem persists, you'll have to call in the experts.
To help reduce condensation, you can install ventilation in your doors and windows, such as air bricks or extractors. It is also essential to allow double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by leaving them open as much as feasible, which is possible with trickle vents.