How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is a good idea to inspect your double-glazed windows regularly, especially if you notice the frames are expanding or contracting. This will reduce the chance of draughts.
If you notice condensation appearing between the glass panes, it is possible that the seal be failing and must be replaced. The seal can be replaced to reduce condensation and help save energy.
Cracked or Broken Panes
Double glazing isn't indestructible and there are a few issues that can affect the efficiency of energy-efficient windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a relatively simple process but the right tools and skills are needed to perform high-quality repairs. It is usually best to hire a professional to do the work, rather than attempting to do it yourself.
A broken or cracked window is the most frequent problem for double-glazed windows. This could be a result of a knock or blow on the frame from outside or a failed attempt to open windows that are closed. The glass may break or crack into small pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
If a double-glazed window is prone to cracking it can be repaired with a specific type of putty or a special tape. This will stop the crack from extending or getting worse, and will prevent the elements of wind, water or other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Condensation in double glazing is another frequent issue and is usually caused by a failure of the window seal. It is a common occurrence that happens due to weather and temperature changes. Before attempting to repair your windows, check to check if they're covered by the warranty.
Typically, this issue will be covered by the company you purchased the double glazing from. Therefore, it is crucial to contact them immediately and clearly explain the issue. This is best written down instead of via text or phone. Always keep a copy.
If you want to try and fix a window that has become misty yourself, a typical method involves drilling through the middle of the damaged pane. The desiccant absorbs any moisture and help to solve the issue. However, this is only a temporary solution and it is recommended to get double-glazed windows replaced with new units as soon as possible.
Misted Panes
Double-glazed windows that fog up can be a huge nuisance and cause major disruptions in your home. Fortunately, it can be fairly easy to fix the issue once you know the root of the issue. In most cases the cause of the issue is a defect in the seals between the window panes, which allows moisture to get in. Poor installation or drainage issues, or even damaged seals made by the window manufacturer can cause this issue.
Standard sealed units consist of two glass panes that have an open spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the image above). The inside of this bar is perforated, and the spacer bars are filled with a desiccant, which is there to absorb any moisture that gets into the unit. The two glass panes will then be sealed and the whole unit will be injected with gas in order to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails, moisture can enter between the panes and this could cause condensation and mist. This will also lead to heat escaping your property which could lead to a significant amount of money lost through energy bills.
Unfortunately, repairing a misted double glazing window isn't easy and shouldn't be attempted by anyone without extensive knowledge of the glazing industry and construction industry. However, if you're willing to take on the challenge then it is possible to repair a misted sealed unit by adding a moisture absorbing desiccant back into the space between the glass panes.
Bear in mind, though it's only temporary solution, and the condensation will likely to return and the process might need to be repeated. It's far more effective to replace a misted glass unit and it's more efficient and cleaner. Replacements will restore the original insulation of your property it is not possible with a repair. We recommend getting in touch with a reputable double glazing firm if you're experiencing condensation and misted windows. In the meantime, try making sure your windows are as dry as possible by ensuring 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 a nuisance but they can cause severe damage to your home including mold growth and structural damage, as well as increased heating and cooling expenses. Contact a professional window company as soon as you suspect a problem.
Window leaks are usually an indication of a problem with the seals between the panes of glass. If you see condensation between the panes, it is a sure indication that your window seal has been damaged and that moisture is seeping into the insulation gap between the glass. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However, if double glazing window repairs persists and is evident on your home's exterior or interior, it is time to contact an expert repair service.
Another cause of leaks is that water collects 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 an unbalanced sill. It is easy to clear a blocked drain hole by using a coat hanger. Flashing that isn't properly installed is also simple to fix by using roofing caulk to fill the gaps around the frame. If the window sill slopes to one side, it could be due to an improper pitch. A professional window repair service can identify the cause and provide an immediate, cost-effective solution.
It is not unusual 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 restore the appearance and function of your windows to how they were when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges, handles, and locks if required. A professional 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 fix the window yourself.
Difficulty of Opening
If you find that your windows are getting harder to open, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. In most cases, a simple repair can fix the problem. If the problem continues then you should think about replacing your windows with windows that are more modern in design. New double glazed Windows offer the latest features to keep your home secure and warm. These include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames with high-tech insulation that stops heat from escaping, as well as innovative security hardware.
Condensation between glass panes is another indication that double glazing requires repair. This is due to an issue with the seals which separate the two panes. Inert gas is supposed to be able to escape between the glass and replace it with moist air, making sure that your windows stay airtight and thermally efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals may have deteriorated or even broken and this can occur in the course of time because of weather changes or other elements.
A draft that is coming from a double-glazed windows could also indicate that the seals are failing, which means that cold air is leaking in to your home. This could lead to higher energy bills, as your heating will have to perform harder to keep the temperature of your home stable.
In certain cases, a draught may be resolved by lubricating handles, hinges, or mechanisms on your double-glazed doors or windows. However, it is important to keep in mind that this is only temporary fix. If the problem persists, you'll need to call in the experts.
To reduce condensation, you can put in ventilation in your windows and doors, such as air bricks or extractors. It is also important to allow your double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by keeping them open as much as feasible, which can be achieved with trickle vents.