How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
You should make sure that your double-glazed window frames inspected regularly, particularly in the event that they are shrinking or expanding. This can reduce the possibility of draughts.
If you notice condensation between the glass panes, the seal may be failing and must be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only help to reduce condensation but will also reduce energy costs.
Broken or cracked panes
Double glazing is not indestructible. It can experience faults that can reduce the energy efficiency. Repairing double-glazing is a relatively easy process however, you'll need the right tools and knowledge to do it correctly. It is generally recommended to hire a professional to complete the task, instead of trying to do it yourself.
A broken or cracked window is the most frequent issue with double-glazed windows. A knock or a blow from the outside can trigger this, as could the attempt to open a window that is closed. The glass could break or crack into smaller pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force that is applied to it.
If a double-glazed window is prone to cracking, it can be repaired by using a type of putty or special tape. This will prevent the crack extending or getting worse, and also stop water, wind or any other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Condensation of double glazing is another frequent issue and this is often the result of a break of the window seal. It is a normal phenomenon that happens due to temperatures and weather conditions. Before you attempt to repair your windows, make sure to check if they're covered under warranty.
This will usually be covered by the company who supplied you with your double glazing, therefore it's essential to contact them quickly and clearly explain the issue. This should be written down instead of via phone or text. Always keep an original copy.
If you're looking to try and fix a damaged or misted window yourself, a common method is to drill a hole into the centre of the damaged pane. A special desiccant is then put in to absorb any moisture, which can aid in helping the condensation issue to heal itself. However, this is only temporary solution, and it is recommended to have double-glazed windows replaced with new units as soon as possible.
Misty Panes
Double glazed windows that mist up can be a huge nuisance and cause major disruptions in your home. It is, however, fairly simple to fix the issue once you understand the root of the issue. In most cases the problem is caused by a flaw in the seals which separate your window panes. This allows moisture to be able to get. This could be caused by poor installation, drainage issues or even defective seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units comprise of two glass panes, with a hollow spacer bar inserted between them (shown in the image above). The inside of the spacer bar is perforated, and the spacer bars are filled with desiccant in order to absorb moisture. The two glass panes will then be sealed together, and the entire unit will be filled with gas in order to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit is damaged, moisture may be trapped between the panes, causing condensation and mist. This will also lead to the heat from your home being lost which can add up to a significant amount of money squandered in energy costs.
However, fixing a misted double glazing window can be a bit difficult and isn't something that should be attempted by those who don't have an extensive understanding of the construction industry. However, if repair double glazing window to take on the challenge then it is possible to repair a misted sealed unit by putting moisture-absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Remember that this is a temporary fix, and the condensation may be back. The process will have to be repeated. It's far more effective to replace a misted glass unit and it's more efficient and cleaner. A replacement can also help restore the original insulation of your house that isn't accessible with a repair. We suggest getting in touch with a reputable double-glazing company if you're struggling with condensation and misty windows. In the meantime, you can try keeping 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 they can cause significant damage to your home such as mold growth and structural damage, as well as increased heating and cooling expenses. Contact a professional window service as soon as you notice a problem.
Window leaks are a sign that the seals between glass panes aren't working properly. If you notice condensation between the panes this is a sure sign that your window seal has been damaged and that moisture is getting into the insulation gap between the glass. A small amount of condensation is normal. However, if the problem persists and is evident on your home's exterior or interior then it's time to call in a repair service.
Another common cause of leaks is the accumulation of water on the bottom frame of your window. This could be a sign of drain holes that are blocked, improper flashing or a sloped sill. It is easy to clean out a clogged drainage hole by using a coat hanger. Improper flashing is also easy to fix using roofing caulk to fill the gaps around the frame. A wrong pitch could be the reason of a window sill that slopes to one side. A professional window repair service can identify the cause and provide a fast, cost-effective solution.
While it is not uncommon for old UPVC windows to break or leak however, it is more cost-effective and efficient to hire a professional double-glazed repair service. They can restore your windows' appearance and function to how they were when they first came out. They can even replace hinges, handles and locks if required. A professional window repair company will also provide you with a kind of guarantee for their work, which you could not be able to get if you tried to fix the window yourself.
Achieving the Open
If you notice your windows are becoming harder to open, call the company from which you purchased the windows. In the majority of instances, a simple repair can fix the problem. If the issue continues to persist and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with modern contemporary designs. Double-glazed windows are available with the latest features to keep your home secure and warm. These include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames that have advanced insulation that stops heat from escaping, as well as innovative security hardware.
Condensation in the glass panes is another common sign that double glazing requires repair. This is due to a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gases are designed to escape between the panes of glass and then be replaced by moist air. This will keep your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals could have degraded or even broken, which is something that could happen in the course of time because of changing weather conditions or other factors.
A draught emanating from your double-glazed window is also a common sign that the seals have failed, which means that cold air is getting into your home. This can also result in higher energy costs since your heating system will have to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
In some cases a draught can be fixed by lubricating handles, hinges, or mechanisms on your double-glazed windows or doors. It is crucial to note that this is a temporary solution, and you'll need to contact the experts in the event that the issue continues to persist.
To prevent condensation, you can install ventilation in your windows and doors, such as extractors or air bricks. It is also essential to allow your double-glazed doors and windows to breathe by keeping them open to the maximum extent feasible, which can be accomplished by trickle vents.