How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea to have your double-glazed windows inspected regularly, especially if you find that the frames are expanding or contracting. This can reduce the possibility of drafts.
If you notice condensation between the glass panes, the seal may be failing and must be replaced. The seal is able to be replaced to lessen condensation and conserve energy.
Cracked or Broken Panes
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage. It can experience defects that could decrease the energy efficiency. Repairing double-glazing can be an simple process however, you'll require the proper tools and expertise to complete it correctly. It is recommended to get a professional complete the task, rather than try to do it yourself.
A cracked or broken pane is the most frequent issue with double-glazed windows. It could be the result of a blow or knock to the frame from outside or a failed attempt to open a window that is stuck shut. The glass could break or crack into small pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force that is applied to it.
You can repair double-glazed glass windows susceptible to cracking using a special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack expanding or getting worse and will stop wind, water or other elements from getting into your home through the cracks.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is condensation in double-glazed windows. This is usually the result of a broken window seal. It is a natural phenomenon that is caused by different temperatures and weather conditions, so it is important to check whether your windows are under warranty before attempting to fix them.
This will usually be covered by the company that provided you with the double glazing, so it is important to contact them quickly and explain the problem clearly. It is best to do this in writing rather than by phone or text message, and always keep an original copy of the correspondence.
If you're looking to try and fix a damaged or misted window by yourself, a popular method is to drill through the middle of the affected window. A special desiccant is inserted to absorb moisture and this will help the condensation issue to heal itself. This is a temporary fix and it is recommended that you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as is possible.
Misty Panes
If double-glazed windows begin fogging up, it can be a major issue and cause a significant disruption to your home. If you can pinpoint the issue it's fairly easy to repair. In most cases the cause of the issue is a problem with the seals between the window panes that allow moisture to enter. This could be caused by poor installation, drainage issues or even seals that are defective from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units consist of two glass panes with a hollow spacer bar inserted between them (shown in the image above). The face of the spacer bar is perforated. the bars are filled with a desiccant that is used to absorb any moisture that comes into the unit. The two glass panes are sealed and the whole unit is filled with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails, moisture can get in between the panes, and this can cause condensation and even mist. This could also result in heating being lost from your home which could result in an enormous amount of money being lost in energy bills.
Unfortunately, repairing a misted double glazing window can be a little tricky and shouldn't be attempted by anyone without the necessary knowledge of the glazing industry and construction industry. If you're willing to take on the challenge, it is possible to repair a misted sealed window by putting in moisture-absorbing desiccant into the gap between the glass panels.
Be aware, however it's only temporary solution, and the condensation will likely to return and the process may need repeating. It's much more effective to replace an affected unit. It will also be quicker and more clean. Replacements will bring back the original insulation of your property and is not achievable through a repair. If you are experiencing misted windows or condensation, we suggest contacting an established company that provides double glazing. While you wait, keep your windows as clean and dry as you can.
Water Leaks
No matter if they are brand new or old, double glazed windows should not leak. Leaking windows aren't just an inconvenience but can cause severe damage to your home including mold growth and structural damage as well as higher heating and cooling expenses. If you suspect a leak you should contact a professional window repair service as quickly as you can to get the problem under control.
Window leaks could be a sign that the seals between glass panes aren't working properly. If you notice condensation between the glass panes, it is a sign that the seal between the two panes has deteriorated. Moisture is now seeping through the insulation space between the two panes. While a little condensation is normal, if it is persistent and is visible on the outside or inside of your home, it's time to get an repair service.
Water accumulating at the bottom of the window frame is a typical cause of leaks. This could be a sign of blocked drain holes, improper flashing, or a sloped sill. It is simple to clear a blocked drainage hole by using a coat hanger. By using roofing caulk, it is easy to repair flashing that is not properly installed. If the window sill slopes to one side it may be due to an improper pitch. A professional window repair service can to determine the source of the problem and provide an affordable, fast solution.
While it is not unusual for old UPVC windows to leak or break, it is much more cost-effective and efficient to get a professional double-glazed repair service. They can restore your windows' appearance and function to the way they were when they first were introduced. They can also replace hinges and handles and locks if necessary. Professional window repair firms will give you a guarantee for their work. double glazing repairs would not get this if you attempted to repair windows yourself.
Achieving the Open
If you notice your windows are becoming more difficult to open, contact the company from which you purchased the windows. In most cases, a simple fix can resolve the issue. If the issue continues to persist and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with new, more modern designs. Double-glazed windows are available with modern features that keep your home warm and secure, including slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium, advanced insulation to stop heat from escaping, as well as sophisticated security hardware that keep out intruders.
Condensation in the glass panes is another common indication that double glazing requires repair. This is caused by an issue with the seals between the two panes. Inert gasses are supposed to escape between the panes of glass and be replaced by moist air. This keeps your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this doesn't happen, then the seals could have deteriorated over time due to weather conditions or other factors.
A draft coming from a double-glazed window could also be a sign that the seals aren't working, which means that cold air is leaking into your home. This could also lead to higher energy costs since your heating system has to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
In some cases a draught may be resolved by lubricating hinges, handles, or mechanisms on double-glazed doors or windows. It is crucial to keep in mind that this is temporary fix. If the issue persists, then you'll have to call in the experts.
You can also install ventilation devices, like extractors, air bricks or vents in your windows and doors, to help with condensation issues. It is also recommended to allow double-glazed doors and windows to breathe, which can be achieved by using trickle vents.