How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is a good idea to inspect your double-glazed windows regularly, especially if you find that the frames are contracting or expanding. This will decrease the chance of drafts.
If you notice condensation appearing between the glass panes, the seal may be failing and must be replaced. Replacing double glazing repair will not only reduce condensation, but it will also save on energy bills.
Cracked or broken Panes
Double glazing is not indestructible. It is susceptible to developing faults that can reduce the energy efficiency. Repairing double-glazing can be an easy process, but you will need the right tools and experience to do it right. It is recommended to work with a professional firm to do the work instead of attempting it yourself.
The most frequent issue that occurs with double-glazed windows is a cracked or broken pane. A knock or a blow from the outside can cause this, as can an attempt to open a closed window that is stuck. The glass could break or crack into smaller pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
You can repair double-glazed glass windows that is prone to cracking with the help of special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack growing or becoming worse, and also stop the elements of wind, water or other elements from getting into your home through the cracks.
Condensation of double glazing is another frequent issue and is usually the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a natural occurrence that can occur due to varying temperatures and weather conditions, therefore it is crucial to confirm that your windows are under warranty before attempting to fix them.
This is usually covered by the company who supplied you with your double glazing, so it is important to contact them immediately and explain the problem clearly. It is best to do this in writing rather than via text message or phone and keep a copy of your correspondence.
If you want to try and fix a window that has become misty by yourself, a popular method is to drill an opening in the centre of the affected pane. The desiccant will absorb moisture and help to solve the issue. However it is a temporary solution and it is recommended to get double-glazed windows replaced with new units as soon as you can.
Misty Panes
If double-glazed windows begin misting up it can be a real trouble and can cause major disruption to your home. Once you identify the cause it's fairly easy to repair. Most often, the cause of the issue is a problem with the seals between your window panes, allowing moisture to enter. Poor installation or drainage issues, or even faulty seals by the window manufacturer can trigger this issue.
Standard sealed units are made up of two glass panes that have an open spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the image above). The face of the spacer bar is perforated and the spacer bars are filled with a desiccant that is used to absorb any moisture that is absorbed into the unit. The two glass panes then be sealed, and the entire unit will be filled with gas in order to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails, then moisture can get in between the panes, and this can cause condensation and even mist. This could also result in heat escaping your property which could lead to a significant amount of money squandered in energy bills.
Repairing a misted window is a challenging task that shouldn't be attempted by anyone who doesn't have extensive knowledge of the construction and glazing industries. However, if you're prepared to take on the challenge then it is possible to fix a sealed unit that has been misted by adding moisture absorbing desiccant back into the gap between the glass panes.
Be aware that this is only a temporary fix and the condensation could occur again. The process will need to be repeated. It's far more effective to replace the misted glass and it's much cleaner and quicker. A replacement will bring back the original insulation of your home, which is not possible by repairing. We suggest getting in touch with a reputable double-glazing company if you're having trouble with condensation or misty windows. In the meantime, try to keep your windows as dry as possible by making sure they're well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
If they're new or old, double glazed windows must not leak. Leaking windows aren't just an inconvenience, but they could cause severe damage to your home including the development of mold, structural damage and increased heating and cooling costs. If you suspect that your windows are leaking, contact a professional window repair service as quickly as you can in order to bring the issue fixed.
Window leaks are an indication that the seals between glass panes aren't functioning correctly. If you see condensation between the panes, this is a sure sign that your window seal has deteriorated and that moisture is seeping into the insulating gap between the glass. While some condensation is normal, if it persists and is visible on the interior or exterior of your home, it's time to have a repair service in.
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 clear a clogged drainage hole by using a coat hanger. Using roofing caulk, it is easy to repair flashing that is not properly installed. A misplaced pitch could be the reason of an inclined window sill to one side. A professional window repair company can identify the cause and provide an immediate, cost-effective solution.
It is not uncommon for UPVC windows that are older to break or leak. However it is much more cost-effective and efficient to use an expert to repair your double glazing. They can bring your windows' appearance and function to how they were when they first were released. They can also replace hinges and handles, and locks if required. A professional window repair company will also offer a kind of guarantee for their work, which you would not get if you attempted to fix the window yourself.
It is difficult to open
If you find that your windows are becoming more difficult to open, you should contact the company that sold you windows. Most of the time, the problem can be resolved with an easy fix. If the issue persists and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with modern, more modern designs. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer the latest technology to keep your home safe and warm, including slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium, advanced insulation to stop heat from escaping, and sophisticated security hardware that stop intruders from entering your home.
Condensation between the glass panes is another sign that double glazing requires repair. This is caused by an issue with the seals between the two panes. Inert gas is supposed to get into the glass and replace it with moist air, making sure that your windows stay well-insulated and thermally efficient. If this isn't happening, the seals could have degraded or simply broken down, which is something that can occur over time as a result of changing weather conditions or other elements.
A draft from a double-glazed window can also indicate that the seals aren't working which means cold air is leaking into your home. This can also lead to higher energy bills, as your heating system will need to perform harder to keep the temperature inside your home stable.
In some cases, a draught can be fixed by lubricating the hinges handles, mechanisms or handles of windows or doors with double glazing. It is crucial to note that this is a temporary solution, and you'll have to seek out the experts if the problem persists.
To help reduce condensation, you can install ventilation in your windows and door for reducing condensation, such as extractors or air bricks. You should also allow double-glazed doors and windows to 'breathe,' which can be achieved by using trickle vents.