The Most Common Double Glazed Repair Debate Isn't As Black And White As You Think
How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea to have your double-glazed windows checked frequently, particularly if you observe that the frames are expanding or contracting. This will decrease the chance of draughts.
If you find condensation in between the panes, this is an indication that the seal is failing and needs to be replaced. The seal can be replaced to reduce condensation and conserve energy.
Broken or cracked panes
Double glazing isn't indestructible and it is possible for faults to occur that could reduce the energy efficiency of windows and doors. Repairing double-glazing is a relatively easy process however, you'll need the right tools and experience to do it right. It is generally recommended to hire a professional to perform the work instead of trying to do it yourself.
The most frequent issue that affects a double-glazed window is a cracked or broken pane. It could be the result of a knock or blow on the frame from outside or a failed attempt to open the window that is shut. The glass could break or crack into small pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
Repairing double-glazed glass windows that is prone to cracking using a special tape or putty. This will stop the crack from growing or becoming worse, and will prevent the elements of wind, water or other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Another common problem is condensation in double-glazed windows. This is typically caused by a damaged window seal. It is a natural phenomenon that occurs due to different temperatures and weather conditions, therefore it is crucial to confirm whether your windows are under warranty before attempting to fix them.
Typically, this will be covered by the company you bought your double glazing from, so it is crucial to contact them immediately and clearly explain the issue. This should be done in writing, rather than by phone or text. Always keep the original.
Drilling a hole in the center of a misted pane is a common method to fix it yourself. A desiccant that is specially designed is put in to absorb any moisture and this can help the condensation issue to heal itself. This is only a temporary fix and it is recommended that you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as you can.
Misted Panes
When double-glazed windows start misting up it can be a huge trouble and can cause major disruption in your home. Once you identify the cause it's easy to repair. Most often, the cause of the issue is a failure of the seals between the window panes that allow moisture to enter. Poor installation or drainage issues, or even faulty seals by the window manufacturer could cause this issue.
Standard sealed units comprise two glass panes that are sandwiched by a hollow spacer (shown above). The face of the spacer bar is perforated. the bars are filled with a desiccant which helps to absorb any moisture that comes into the unit. The two glass panes then are joined and the entire unit is injected with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine if the sealed unit is damaged, moisture may get between the panes causing condensation and mist. This will also lead to the heat from your home being lost which can add up to significant amounts of money squandered in energy costs.
Unfortunately, fixing the misted double glazing window can be a bit difficult and isn't something that should be attempted by those who don't have the necessary knowledge of the construction industry. If you're willing to take on the challenge, it's possible to fix a sealed window that has been misted by introducing a moisture-absorbing desiccant in the gap between the glass panels.
Be aware, however this is a temporary solution and the condensation will likely return, and the process might need to be repeated. It is more efficient to replace an affected unit. It's also more efficient and cleaner. A replacement will bring back the original insulation to your property, which is not possible by repairing. We recommend getting in touch with a reputable double-glazing firm if you're experiencing condensation and misted windows. In the meantime, try keeping your windows as dry as they can by making sure they're properly ventilated and being cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows shouldn't leak, regardless of whether they're new or old. Leaking Windows are not just an inconvenience, but could also cause serious damage to your home. This can include the growth of mold, structural damage, and higher heating and cooling costs. Contact a professional window company as soon as you suspect that there is a problem.
Window leaks are an indication that the seals between glass panes are not functioning correctly. If you notice condensation between the panes this is a sure sign that your window seal has been damaged and that water is leaking into the insulating gap between the glass. A small amount of condensation is normal. However, if the problem persists and is visible on your home's interior or exterior, it is time to call an expert repair service.
Another cause of leaks is that water collects at the bottom of the frame of your window. This could be a sign of clogged drain holes, improper flashing, or an uneven sill. It is easy to clear a clogged drain hole by using a coat hanger. Flashing double glazing window repairs isn't properly installed is also simple to fix using roofing caulk to fill the gaps in the frame. A misplaced pitch could be the cause of the window sill sloping to one side. A professional window repair service can to determine the source of the problem and provide an affordable and quick solution.
While it is not unusual for old UPVC windows to fail or leak however, it is more cost-effective and efficient to hire an expert double-glazed repair service. They can restore the look and function of your windows to what they were like when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges, handles and locks if necessary. A reputable window repair service will also give you some type of warranty for their work, which you could not be able to get if you tried to repair the window yourself.
Difficulty of Opening
If you notice your windows are getting harder to open, call the company where you purchased windows. In the majority of cases the issue 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 windows that are more modern in design. Double-glazed windows are available with the latest technology to keep your home warm and secure, such as slimline uPVC or aluminium frames with advanced insulation that stops heat from escaping, and innovative security equipment to stop intruders from entering your home.
Another indication that your double glazing requires repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This is caused by a failure of the seals that connect the two panes. Inert gases are designed to escape between the panes of glass and be replaced by humid air. This keeps your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this isn't happening, the seals may have deteriorated or broken, which is something that may happen in time as a result of changing weather conditions or other factors.
A draft from a double-glazed windows could also be a sign that the seals are failing and cold air is leaking in to your home. This can also lead to higher energy bills, as your heating will have to be more efficient to keep the temperature inside your home steady.
In certain cases, a draught can be fixed by lubricating the hinges or handles on windows or doors that are double-glazed. It is crucial to keep in mind that this is only a temporary fix and if the problem persists, you'll need to contact a professional.
To prevent condensation, you can install ventilation in your windows and door for reducing condensation, such as extractors or air bricks. It is also important to allow double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by leaving them open as much as possible, which can be achieved with trickle vents.