How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is recommended to make sure that your double-glazed window frames inspected regularly, particularly if they are expanding or shrinking. This will reduce the chance of draughts.
If you find condensation between the panes it is a sign that the seal is failing and has to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation, but also save on energy bills.
Broken or cracked Panes
Double glazing is not indestructible and there are a few issues that could reduce the energy efficiency of the windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a relatively simple process but the right tools and expertise are required to carry out top-quality repairs. It is generally recommended to hire a professional company to complete the task rather than trying it yourself.
A cracked or broken pane is the most frequent issue for double-glazed windows. It could be the result of a blow or knock on the frame from outside, or from an attempt to open windows that are closed. Glass can crack or break into pieces depending on its size and the force that is used to crack it.
You can repair a double-glazed glass window that is prone to cracking using a special tape or putty. This will stop the crack from extending or getting worse, and will prevent the elements of wind, water or other elements from getting into your home through the cracks.
Condensation of 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 under warranty before attempting to fix them.
This will usually be covered by the company who provided you with the double glazing, so it's important to contact them quickly and clearly explain the issue. This should be done in writing instead of by phone or text. Always keep an original copy.
If you're interested in trying to fix and fix a damaged or misted window by yourself, a popular method involves drilling an opening in the centre of the affected pane. A special desiccant is then put in to absorb any moisture and this can help the condensation issue to get rid of itself. This is a temporary solution and it is recommended you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as possible.
Misted Panes
If double-glazed windows begin misting up it can be a huge pain and can cause significant disruption to your home. If you can pinpoint the issue, it's relatively simple to repair. Most often, the cause of the problem is a failure of the seals between your window panes, which allows moisture to get in. Poor installation or drainage issues, or even damaged seals made by the window manufacturer can trigger this issue.
Standard sealed units are made up of two glass panes that are sandwiched by a hollow spacer (shown above). The face of the 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 then be sealed together and the whole unit will be filled with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can see, if the seal fails, moisture could get between the panes causing condensation and mist. This can also result in the heat from your home being lost which could lead to a significant amount of money lost through energy bills.
Repairing a misted window is a tricky job that should not be attempted by anyone who doesn't have a solid understanding in the glazing and construction industries. 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.
Keep in mind, however it's only temporary solution, and the condensation will likely return and the process could need to be repeated. It's much more effective to replace an affected unit. It will also be quicker and more clean. Replacements will restore the original insulation of your property and is not achievable by repairing. If you are experiencing misted windows and condensation, we recommend contacting an experienced company that can provide double glazing. While you wait, make sure that your windows as clean and dry as possible.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows should not leak, regardless of whether they're new or old. Leaking windows aren't only a nuisance, but can also cause serious damage to your home. This includes mold growth and structural damage as well as higher heating and cooling costs. Contact a professional window company as soon you suspect a issue.
Window leaks are usually indications of a problem with the seals between panes of glass. If you see condensation between the panes, it is a sure indication that the seal on your window has deteriorated and that moisture is seeping into the insulation gap between the glass. A small amount of condensation is normal. However when the issue persists and is evident on the exterior or interior of your home it is the right time to contact a repair service.
The accumulation of water at the bottom of the window frame is a common reason for leaks. glazing repairs could be a sign of blocked drain holes or flashing that isn't properly installed, or a sloped sill. A clogged drainage hole is easy to fix by using a coat hanger wire to clean out the gunk. With 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 identify the root of the problem and offer an efficient, quick and cost-effective solution.
It is not uncommon for UPVC windows that are older to leak or break. However it is more economical and efficient to employ a double glazing repair service. They can restore your windows' appearance and functionality to what they were when they first were introduced. They can also replace hinges, handles and locks if necessary. Professional window repair companies will offer you a warranty on their work. You wouldn't receive this if you attempted to repair windows on your own.
Achieving the Open
If you notice that your windows are getting harder to open, you should contact the company from which you purchased the windows. Most of the time, the problem can be resolved by a simple fix. If the issue continues to persist and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with new contemporary designs. New double glazed windows offer modern features that keep your home safe and warm, including slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium, advanced insulation to stop the heat from escape, and sophisticated security hardware that deter intruders.
Condensation between the glass panes is another common sign that double glazing requires repair. This is caused by an issue with the seals which separate the two panes. Inert gas is supposed seep out between the glass and replace it with moist air, making sure that your windows stay well-insulated and thermally efficient. If this isn't the case, the seals could have deteriorated in the course of time due to changes in weather or other elements.
A draft coming from a double-glazed window could also indicate that the seals aren't working and cold air is coming in to your home. This can also result in more energy costs as your heating system has to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home.
In certain cases a draught may be fixed by lubricating hinges, handles or mechanisms of your double-glazed doors or windows. It is crucial to remember that this is a temporary fix and if the issue persists, you'll need to call in the experts.
You can also put in ventilation systems, such as extractors, air bricks or vents in your windows and doors to alleviate condensation issues. It is also essential to allow your double-glazed doors and windows to 'breathe' by leaving them open as much as feasible, which can be achieved with trickle vents.