15 Reasons To Not Be Ignoring Double Glazed Repair
How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is a good idea to have your double-glazed windows checked frequently, particularly if you find that the frames are contracting or expanding. This will reduce the risk of draughts.
If you find condensation in between the panes, this indicates that the seal is failing and needs to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation, but also help to reduce the cost of energy.
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 skills are needed to perform top-quality repairs. It is recommended to employ a professional do the work, rather than try to do it yourself.
A broken or cracked pane is the most common problem with double-glazed windows. This can be a result of a knock or blow to the frame from the outside or an attempt to open the window that is closed. Glass can crack or break into pieces depending on its size and the force used to crack it.
Repairing double-glazed glass susceptible to cracking by using special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack from spreading or getting worse. It will stop any water, wind or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Condensation in double glazing is another frequent issue and is usually the result of a break of the window seal. It is a normal occurrence that is caused by temperature and weather changes. Before attempting to repair your windows, check to check if they're covered by the warranty.
Typically, this will be covered by the company that you purchased your double glazing from so it is crucial to contact them quickly and clearly explain the issue. This should be done in writing instead of via text or phone. Always keep a copy.
If you're interested in trying to fix and fix a window that has become misty yourself, a typical method is to drill an opening in the centre of the affected pane. A desiccant that is specially designed is put in to absorb moisture which can aid in helping the condensation issue to get rid of itself. However it is temporary solution, and it is recommended to get your double-glazed windows replaced by new units whenever possible.
Misted Panes
When double-glazed windows start getting misty, it can be a real trouble and can cause major disruptions to your home. Fortunately, it can be fairly easy to fix the issue after you have figured out the root of the issue. Most of the time the problem is due to a problem in the seals that protect your window panes. This allows moisture be able to get. Poor installation or drainage issues, or even damaged seals made by the window manufacturer could cause this issue.
Standard sealed units are made up of two glass panes with a hollow spacer bar inserted between them (shown in the above image). The face of the bar is perforated, and the bars that are used as spacers are filled with a desiccant, which is there to absorb any moisture that gets into the unit. The two glass panes will be sealed together and the whole unit will be filled with gas in order to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the seal fails, moisture can be trapped between the panes, causing condensation and mist. This could also result in heat escaping your property which can add up to a significant amount of money being lost in energy costs.
Repairing a misted window is a difficult task that should not be attempted by someone who doesn't have extensive knowledge of the construction and glazing industries. If you're prepared to take on the challenge then it is possible to repair the misted seal by adding a moisture absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Be aware that this is only a temporary fix and the condensation may return. The process will have to be repeated. It's far more effective to replace the misted glass and it's much more hygienic and faster. A replacement will also bring back the original insulation of your home which isn't possible through repair. We recommend contacting with a reputable double glazing company if you're having trouble with condensation or misty windows. In the meantime, consider keeping your windows as dry as they can by making sure they're properly ventilated and being cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows should not leak, no matter if they are new or old. Leaking windows are not only a nuisance but they can cause significant damage to your home including the development of mold and structural damage, as well as increased heating and cooling expenses. If you suspect a leak you should contact a professional window repair service as quickly as you can in order to bring the issue fixed.
Window leaks are typically an indication of a problem with the seals that connect the panes of glass. If you notice condensation between the panes of glass, it is an indication that the seal between the two panes has become weaker. The moisture is now leaking through the insulating space that is between the two panes. A small amount of condensation is normal. However should the issue persist and appears on the exterior or interior of your home it is the right time to contact an expert repair service.
Another cause of leaks is water collecting on the bottom of the frame of your window. This could be a sign of drainage holes that are blocked or flashing that is not properly installed or a sloped sill. A drainage hole that is blocked is simple to fix using a coat hanger wire to clear the gunk. With roofing caulk, you can easily repair flashing that is not properly installed. If repair double glazing is sloping to one side it may be due to an incorrect pitch. A professional window repair company will be able to determine the root of the problem and offer a fast, cost-effective solution.
It is not unusual for UPVC windows that are older to leak or break. However it is much more cost-effective and efficient to hire an expert to repair your double glazing. They can restore the look and function of your windows to what they were like when they were brand new. They can also replace handles, hinges and locks, if needed. A professional window repair service will also provide you with a type of warranty for their work, which you could not get if you attempted to fix the window yourself.
Difficulty to Open
If you notice your windows are becoming more difficult to open, call the company from which you purchased the windows. Most of the time, the problem is fixable by a simple fix. If the issue persists, you may want to think about replacing your windows with more modern ones. Double-glazed windows are available with state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, such as slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium and advanced insulation to prevent the heat from escape, and innovative security hardware to stop intruders from entering your home.
Another sign that your double glazing needs repairs is condensation that forms between the glass panes. 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 humid air. This keeps your windows in a breathable state and be energy efficient. If this isn't the case, the seals could have been damaged over time due weather changes or other factors.
A draught emanating from the double-glazed windows is another sign that the seals have failed, meaning that cold air is getting into your home. This can also lead to higher energy bills, as your heating system will need to work harder to keep the temperature of your home in a stable state.
In certain cases, a draught can be fixed by lubricating hinges handles, mechanisms or handles of your double-glazed doors or windows. It is important to note that this is a temporary solution and you will need to contact the experts when the issue persists.
You can also put in ventilation systems, such as air bricks, extractors or vents in your windows and doors, to help with condensation issues. It is also important to allow your double-glazed windows and doors to 'breathe' by leaving them open as much as possible, which is possible with trickle vents.