How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea to have your double-glazed windows checked regularly, especially if you find that the frames are expanding or contracting. This will reduce the risk of draughts.
If you notice condensation between the glass panes, the seal could be failing and should be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only help to reduce condensation but will also help to reduce the cost of energy.
Broken or cracked panes
Double glazing isn't indestructible and there are a few issues that could reduce the efficiency of energy-efficient windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a relatively straightforward process, but the proper tools and knowledge are required to make top-quality repairs. It is usually best to employ a professional complete the task, rather than attempting to do it yourself.
A broken or cracked pane is the most frequent problem with double-glazed windows. A knock or blow from the outside can trigger this, as can attempts to open a closed window that is stuck. The glass might crack or break into small pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force that is applied to it.
You can repair double-glazed glass that is prone to cracking by using special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack from extending or becoming worse and it will stop any moisture, wind or other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Condensation in double glazing is a different issue that is common and this is often the result of a break of the window seal. It is a natural process that occurs due to different temperatures and weather conditions, therefore it is crucial to confirm that your windows are still under warranty prior to attempting to fix them.
This will usually be covered by the company that supplied you with your double glazing, so it is important to contact them quickly and explain the problem clearly. This is best written down instead of via text or phone. Always keep an original copy.
Making a hole in the centre of a misted pane is a common method of fixing it yourself. A special desiccant is then put in to absorb moisture which can aid in helping the condensation problem to resolve itself. This is only a temporary fix and it is recommended that you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as is possible.
Misted Panes
Double-glazed windows that fog up can be a huge issue and cause major disruptions to your home. Once you have identified the source, it's relatively simple to repair. In most cases the issue is due to a problem in the seals that protect the window panes. This allows moisture be able to get. This can be caused by inadequate installation, drainage issues or even seals that are defective from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units comprise of two glass panes, with an open spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the image above). The inside of the spacer bar has been perforated and the spacer bars are filled with desiccant to absorb any moisture. The two glass panes will then be sealed and the whole unit will be injected with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails, moisture can enter between the panes, and this can cause condensation and even mist. This could result in heat escaping from your property, which could result in a significant amount of money lost to energy bills.
Repairing a window that has been misted is a challenging task that shouldn't be attempted by anyone who doesn't have extensive knowledge in the glazing and construction industries. However, if you are willing to tackle the challenge, then it's possible to repair a misted sealed unit by adding a moisture absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Be aware, however, that this is only temporary solution, and the condensation will likely to return and the process could need to be repeated. It's much more efficient to replace the misted glass and will be more efficient and cleaner. A replacement will also restore the original insulation of your home that isn't accessible through repair. We suggest getting in touch with a reputable double-glazing company if you're struggling with condensation or misty windows. In the meantime, try to keep your windows as dry as possible by ensuring they're well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double glazed windows shouldn't leak, regardless of whether they're new or old. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but they can cause serious damage to your home. This includes mold growth as well as structural damage and increased heating and cooling bills. Contact a professional window service as soon as you suspect a problem.
Window leaks are typically indications of a problem with the seals between the panes of glass. If you notice condensation between the glass panes, it is an indication that the seal between the two panes has become weaker. Moisture is now seeping through the insulating space that is between the two panes. While some condensation is normal, if it continues to grow and becomes visible on the interior or exterior of your home, it's time to call repairs done.
Water accumulating at the bottom of your window frame is a typical cause of leaks. This can be a sign of clogged drainage holes or flashing that is not properly installed or an unbalanced sill. A clogged drainage hole can be easily fixed by using a coat hanger wire to clean out the gunk. Improper flashing is also easy to fix by using roofing caulk to fill the gaps in the frame. If the window sill is sloped to one side, it could be due to an improper pitch. A professional window repair company will be able to identify the reason and provide a fast, cost-effective solution.
It is not unusual for UPVC windows that are older to leak or break. However it is more economical and efficient to use a double glazing repair service. They can restore the appearance and functionality of your windows to what they were like when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges, handles and locks, if needed. A reputable window repair service will double glazing repairs near me also provide you with a kind of guarantee for their work, which you could not get if you attempted to fix the window yourself.
The difficulty of opening
If you notice that your windows are becoming more difficult to open, you should contact the company where you purchased windows. Most of the time the issue can be solved by an easy fix. If the problem persists, you may want to look at replacing your windows with newer ones. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer the latest features to keep your home safe and warm. These include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames that have advanced insulation that blocks heat from escaping and innovative security equipment.
Condensation between glass panes is another indication that double glazing needs 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 to ensure that your windows remain well-insulated and thermally efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals may have become less effective over time due to changes in weather or other elements.
A draught emanating from your double-glazed window is also a common sign that the seals have failed, meaning that cold air is leaked into your home. This could lead to higher energy bills, as your heating will have to perform harder to keep the temperature inside your home stable.
In certain situations the draught could be fixed by lubricating hinges handles, mechanisms or handles of windows or doors that are double-glazed. It is crucial to remember that this is temporary solution and if the issue persists, you'll need to seek out the experts.
You can also install ventilation devices, like air bricks, extractors or vents in your windows and doors, to help with the issue of condensation. It is also important to allow your double-glazed doors and windows to 'breathe,' which is possible with trickle vents.