14 Smart Ways To Spend Your Extra Double Glazed Repair Budget
How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is recommended to have your double-glazed window frames regularly inspected, especially in the event that they are shrinking or expanding. This will decrease the risk of drafts.
If you notice condensation between the panes, this is an indication that the seal is failing and needs to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation, but also reduce energy costs.
Cracked or broken panes
Double glazing isn't impervious to damage. It can develop defects that could decrease the energy efficiency. Repairing double-glazing is a relatively simple process however, you'll require the proper tools and knowledge to do it right. It is recommended to hire a professional to complete the task, instead of trying to do it yourself.
The most common issue that can affect a double-glazed window is a cracked or broken pane. This can be a result of a blow or knock to the frame from the outside, or from an attempt to open a window that is stuck shut. The glass may crack or break into small pieces, based on the size of the crack and the force that is applied to it.
Repairing double-glazed glass that is susceptible to cracking by using special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack from expanding or getting worse. It will block any water, wind or other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Condensation in double glazing is another frequent issue and is usually the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a normal occurrence that occurs due to temperatures and weather conditions. Before attempting to repair your windows, you should see if they are still covered by warranty.
Typically, this will be covered by the company you purchased your double glazing from, so it is essential to contact them immediately and explain the issue clearly. This should be done in writing instead of by phone or text. Always keep an original copy.
Drilling a hole into the middle of a misted pane is a common way to repair it yourself. A special desiccant is placed in the hole to absorb any moisture, which can aid in helping the condensation issue to get rid of itself. However, this is only an interim solution, and it is recommended to have your double-glazed windows replaced with new units as soon as you can.
Misty Panes
Double-glazed windows that mist up can be a major nuisance and cause major disruptions to your home. It is, however, fairly simple to fix the issue once you understand the root of the issue. Most of the time, the root of the problem is a defect in the seals between your window panes that allow moisture to enter. This could be caused by poor installation, drainage problems or even defective seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units consist two glass panes, sandwiched by an open spacer (shown above). The inside of this 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 are sealed and the whole unit is injected with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if a sealed unit fails, then moisture could get between the panes, and this can create condensation and mist. This will also lead to heating being lost from your home which could lead to a significant amount of money lost through energy costs.
Unfortunately, repairing double glazing windows that have been misted isn't easy and shouldn't be attempted by anyone without the necessary knowledge of the glazing industry and construction industry. If you're prepared to take on the challenge then it is possible to repair a sealed unit that has been misted by adding a moisture absorbing desiccant back into the gap between the glass panes.
Bear in mind, though it's only a temporary solution and the condensation will likely return, and the process could need to be repeated. It's more efficient to replace a misted glass unit and will be much cleaner and quicker. A replacement will also restore the original insulation of your home which isn't possible in repair. If you are experiencing misted windows or condensation, we suggest contacting a reputable company that offers double glazing. In the meantime, consider keeping your windows as dry as you can by making sure they're well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
No matter if they are brand new or old, double glazed windows should not leak. Leaking windows are not only an inconvenience but can cause severe damage to your home such as the development of mold and structural damage as well as higher heating and cooling expenses. If you suspect that your windows are leaking call a reputable window repair company as soon as you can in order to bring the issue under control.
Window leaks could be a sign that the seals between glass panes aren't functioning properly. If you notice condensation between the panes of glass it's an indication that the seal between the two panes is deteriorating. Moisture is now flowing through the insulating space that is between the two panes. Although a small amount of condensation is normal, if it continues to grow and becomes visible on the outside or inside of your home, it's time to get a repair service in.
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 drain holes, improper flashing or an uneven sill. It is simple to clear a clogged drainage hole by using a coat hanger. With roofing caulk, you can easily fix flashing that isn't working properly. A faulty pitch could be the cause of a window sill that slopes to one side. A professional window repair service can identify the cause and provide a fast, cost-effective solution.
While it is not uncommon for old UPVC windows to break or leak but it is more cost-effective and efficient to seek out a professional double-glazed repair service. They can restore the appearance and function of your windows to what they were like when they were new. They can even replace handles, hinges and locks if required. A professional window repair service will also offer a form of guarantee for their work, which you would not get if you attempted to fix the window yourself.
The difficulty of opening
If you notice that your windows are getting difficult to open, you must contact the company from whom you bought windows. In the majority of instances, a simple repair will resolve the issue. If double glazing windows repairs persists then you should look at replacing your windows with newer ones. New double glazed windows offer state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, such as slimline uPVC frames made of aluminium, advanced insulation to stop heat from escaping, and sophisticated security hardware that stop intruders from entering your home.
Condensation between the glass panes is another sign that double glazing requires repair. This is due to an issue with the seals between the two panes. Inert gases are supposed to escape between the panes of glass and then be replaced by moist air. This keeps your windows in a breathable state and be energy efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals could have been damaged in the course of time due to changes in weather or other elements.
A draft coming from a double-glazed windows could also indicate that the seals are failing which means cold air is leaking into your home. This can also result in higher energy bills as your heating system will have to work harder to keep the temperature in your home.
In some instances, the draught could be solved by lubricating the hinges, handles, or mechanisms on double-glazed windows or doors. It is important to note that this is only a temporary solution, and you'll need to contact the experts in the event that the issue continues to persist.
To prevent condensation, you can install ventilation in your windows and doors for reducing condensation, such as air bricks or extractors. It is also essential to allow your double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by keeping them open as much as possible. This is possible with trickle vents.