How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is a good idea to have your double-glazed windows inspected regularly, especially if notice the frames are contracting or expanding. This will decrease the chance of drafts.
If you see condensation between the glass panes, the seal could be failing and must be replaced. The seal can be replaced to decrease condensation and conserve energy.
Broken or cracked Panes
Double glazing isn't indestructible. It is susceptible to developing defects that could decrease the efficiency of energy. Repairing double glazing is a relatively simple process but the right tools and expertise are required to carry out quality repairs. It is normally best to use a professional firm to complete the task rather than trying it yourself.
The most common fault that can affect a double-glazed window is a broken or cracked pane. A knock or blow from outside can cause this, as can an attempt to open a closed window that is stuck. Glass can crack or break into pieces depending on its size and the force applied to crack it.
If windows with double glazing are susceptible to cracking, it can be repaired by using a form of putty or a special tape. This will prevent the crack expanding or getting worse and will stop water, wind or any other elements from getting into your home through the cracks.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is condensation in double glazing. This is usually the result of a broken window seal. It is a natural phenomenon that can occur due to varying temperatures and weather conditions, so it is important to check that your windows are under warranty prior to attempting to repair them.
This will usually be covered by the company who provided you with the double glazing, therefore it's essential to contact them promptly and clearly explain the issue. This should be written down, rather than by text or phone. Always keep an original copy.
Drilling a hole in the center of a misted pane is a popular way to repair it yourself. A special desiccant is put in to absorb any moisture which can aid in helping the condensation issue to heal itself. This is a temporary solution and it is recommended you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as is possible.
Misty Panes
Double-glazed windows that fog up can be a huge nuisance and cause major disruptions in your home. If you can pinpoint the issue, it's relatively simple to repair. In most cases the cause of the issue is a failure of the seals between your window panes, allowing moisture to get in. Poor installation or drainage issues, or even faulty seals by the window manufacturer can trigger this problem.
Standard sealed units comprise of two glass panes, with a hollow spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the image above). The inner face of this spacer bar is perforated and the bars are filled with a desiccant which helps to absorb any moisture that is absorbed into the unit. The two glass panes will be sealed together and the whole unit will be injected with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine if the sealed unit is damaged, moisture may be trapped between the panes, causing condensation and mist. This can also result in the heat from your home being lost which can add up to significant amounts of money being lost in energy costs.
Repairing a misted window is a tricky job that should not be attempted by anyone who isn't well-versed of the construction and glazing industries. However, if you're willing to tackle the challenge, it's possible to fix the misted seal by adding a moisture absorbing desiccant back into the space between the glass panes.
Be aware, however this is a temporary solution and the condensation will likely to return and the process may need repeating. It's much more efficient to replace a misted unit. It is also more efficient and cleaner. A replacement will also bring back the original insulation of your property that isn't accessible with a repair. If you're experiencing misty windows or condensation, we recommend contacting an established company that provides double glazing. In the meantime, try making sure your windows are as dry as they can by ensuring that they are well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows shouldn't leak, no matter if they are new or old. Leaking double glazing window repairs aren't just an inconvenience but can cause severe damage to your home, including the development of mold, structural damage and increased heating and cooling costs. If you suspect that your windows are leaking you should contact a professional window repair service as quickly as you can in order to bring the issue under control.
Window leaks can be a sign that the seals between glass panes are not functioning properly. If you notice condensation between the panes it's a sure sign that your window seal has deteriorated and that moisture is seeping into the gaps between the glass's insulating. A small amount of condensation is normal. However when the issue persists and is evident on your home's exterior or interior, it is time to contact a repair service.
Another common cause of leaks is that water collects at the bottom of the frame of your window. This could be a sign of clogged drainage holes or flashing that isn't properly installed, or a sloped sill. A clogged drainage hole is simple to fix using a wire coat hanger to clear the gunk. By using roofing caulk, it is easy to repair flashing that is not properly installed. If the window sill is sloped to one side it may be due to an improper pitch. A professional window repair service will be able to determine the cause and provide an efficient, quick and cost-effective solution.
It is not uncommon for UPVC windows that are older to leak or break. However it is much more cost-effective and efficient to use an expert to repair your double glazing. They can restore the look and function of your windows back to what they were like when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges and locks and handles if needed. A reputable window repair service will 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 find that your windows are becoming harder to open, contact the company that sold you the windows. In the majority of cases, a simple repair can fix the problem. If the issue persists it is possible to think about replacing your windows with more modern ones. New double glazed Windows offer the most modern features to keep your home safe and warm. They include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames with high-tech insulation that prevents heat from escaping, as well as innovative security hardware.
Another sign that your double glazing is in need of repairs is condensation between the glass panes. This is caused by an issue with the seals that separate the two panes. Inert gas is supposed to get into the glass and replace it with moist air to ensure that your windows are in a thermally efficient and airtight state. If this isn't the case, the seals may have become less effective over time due to changes in weather or other elements.
A draught emanating from the double-glazed windows is another sign that the seals have failed, which means that cold air is leaked into your home. This could also lead to more energy costs as your heating system has to work harder to keep the temperature of your home.
In some instances, the draught could be solved by lubricating handles, hinges, or mechanisms on double-glazed doors or windows. It is crucial to keep in mind that this is only a temporary fix and if the issue persists, then you'll need to seek out the experts.
To help reduce condensation, you can put in ventilation in your windows and door, such as extractors or air bricks. It is also important to allow double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by keeping them open to the maximum extent possible. This can be achieved with trickle vents.