How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is a good idea to have your double-glazed windows inspected regularly, especially if you notice the frames are contracting or expanding. This will reduce the risk of drafts.
If you notice condensation between the glass panes, it is possible that the seal be failing and should be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation, but it will also reduce energy costs.
Cracked or broken panes
Double glazing is not indestructible. It can experience faults that can reduce the efficiency of energy. Repairing double glazing is a easy process, however the right tools and knowledge are required to perform high-quality repairs. It is normally best to hire a professional company to do the work rather than attempting it yourself.
The most common fault that can affect a double-glazed window is a broken or cracked pane. A knock or blow from the outside can cause this, as can the attempt to open a window that is closed. Glass can crack or break into pieces based on its size and the force applied to break it.
If windows with double glazing are susceptible to cracking, it can be repaired using a form of putty or a special tape. This will stop the crack from extending or getting worse. It will block any wind, water or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Condensation of double glazing is a different issue that is common and is often the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a normal phenomenon that is caused by temperatures and weather conditions. Before attempting to fix your windows, you should determine if they are covered by warranty.
Typically, this is covered by the company you purchased your double glazing from so it is essential to contact them quickly and explain the issue clearly. This is best done in writing, rather than by text or phone. Always keep a copy.
If you want to try and fix a damaged or misted window by yourself, a popular method is to drill an opening in the centre of the damaged pane. The desiccant will absorb moisture and will help solve the problem. This is only a temporary fix and it is recommended you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as is possible.
Misted Panes
Double glazed windows that mist up can be a major issue and cause major disruptions in your home. Fortunately, it can be relatively easy to resolve the issue once you know what's causing it. In most cases the cause of the issue is a problem with the seals between the window panes, which allows moisture to enter. This could be caused by poor installation, drainage problems or even seals that are defective from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units are made up of two glass panes, sandwiched by a hollow spacer (shown above). The face of the spacer bar is perforated. the bars are filled with a desiccant which is there to absorb any moisture that gets into the unit. The two glass panes will be bonded together, and the entire unit will be injected with gas in order to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails, then moisture can enter between the panes and can create condensation and mist. This can also cause heat to escape from your property, which could result in a substantial amount of money lost to energy bills.
Unfortunately, repairing double glazing windows that have been misted can be a little tricky and shouldn't be attempted by anyone who doesn't have an extensive understanding of the glazing industry and construction industry. If you're willing to tackle the challenge, it's possible to fix the misted seal by putting moisture-absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Keep in mind, however it's only an interim solution. repair double glazing window will likely return, and the process might need to be repeated. It's far more effective to replace misted glass units and it will also be more efficient and cleaner. A replacement can also help restore the original insulation of your property which isn't possible with repairs. We suggest getting in touch with a reputable double glazing firm if you're experiencing condensation and misted windows. In the meantime, you can try to keep your windows as dry as possible by ensuring that they are properly ventilated and cleaning them regularly.
Water Leaks
Whether they are new or old, double-glazed windows should not leak. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but they can 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 you should contact a professional window repair service as quickly as you can to get the issue fixed.
Window leaks could be an indication that the seals between glass panes aren't functioning correctly. If you notice condensation between the panes, this is a sure sign that the seal on your window has been damaged and that moisture is getting into the gaps between the glass's insulating. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However, if the problem persists and is evident on the exterior or interior of your home, it is time to call an expert repair service.
Another cause of leaks is that water collects on the bottom frame of your window. This could be an indication of clogged drainage holes or flashing that isn't properly installed, or a sloped sill. It is easy to clear a blocked drain hole by using a coat hanger. By using roofing caulk, you can repair flashing that is not properly installed. A wrong pitch could be the cause of an inclined window sill to one side. A professional window repair service can identify the reason and provide a fast, cost-effective solution.
It is not uncommon 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 the appearance and function of your windows to how they were when they were brand new. They can even replace hinges, handles and locks if required. Professional window repair companies will offer you a guarantee for their work. You would not get this if you attempted to fix windows yourself.
It is difficult to open
If you notice your windows are becoming more difficult to open, call the company where you purchased windows. In the majority of cases, the problem can be solved with a simple fix. If the issue continues to persist, you may want to think about replacing your windows with more modern. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer modern features that keep your home safe and warm, including slimline uPVC or aluminium frames with advanced insulation that stops heat from escaping, as well as innovative security equipment to deter intruders.
Another common sign that your double glazing is in need of repairs is condensation between the glass panes. This is caused by an issue with the seals between the two panes. Inert gas is supposed seep out between the glass and replace it with moist air, making sure that your windows remain in a thermally efficient and airtight state. If this isn't happening the seals could have degraded or broken and this could happen over time as a result of changing weather conditions or other factors.
A draught emanating from your double-glazed window is another sign that the seals have failed, meaning that cold air is leaked into your home. This can also result in more energy costs as your heating system will need to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
In some cases a draught may be resolved by lubricating the hinges, handles, or mechanisms on double-glazed doors or windows. It is important to note that this is a temporary solution, and you'll have to seek out the experts when the issue persists.
You can also add ventilation, such as extractors, air bricks or vents in your windows and doors to alleviate condensation issues. It is also important to allow double-glazed doors and windows to breathe by leaving them open as much as possible, which can be achieved with trickle vents.