15 Shocking Facts About Double Glazed Repair
How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is recommended to ensure that your double-glazed window frames are checked regularly, especially if they are shrinking or expanding. This can reduce the possibility of drafts.
If you notice condensation between the panes this indicates that the seal is failing and has to be replaced. The seal can be replaced to decrease condensation and conserve energy.
Broken or cracked panes
Double glazing isn't indestructible. It can develop defects that could decrease the energy efficiency. Repairing double glazing is a easy process, however the right tools and expertise are required to perform top-quality repairs. It is generally recommended to get a professional do the work, rather than attempting to do it yourself.
A cracked or broken pane is the most common problem for double-glazed windows. A knock or blow from the outside can trigger this, as could an attempt to open a closed window that is stuck. Glass can crack or break into pieces based on its size and the force that is used to crack it.
Repairing double-glazed glass windows susceptible to cracking with the help of special tape or putty. This will stop the crack from expanding or getting worse and will prevent water, wind or any other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Condensation of double glazing is another frequent issue and is usually the result of a break of the window seal. It is a natural process that occurs due to different temperatures and weather conditions, so it is crucial to confirm that your windows are still under warranty prior to attempting to repair them.
Typically, this is covered by the company you purchased your double glazing from, so it is important to contact them quickly and explain the issue clearly. It is best to address this in writing, rather than by text or phone, and always keep the copy of your correspondence.
If you're looking to try and repair a misted window yourself, a typical method is to drill an opening in the centre of the damaged pane. A desiccant that is specially designed is placed in the hole to absorb any moisture and this will help the condensation problem to resolve 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.
Misted Panes
If double-glazed windows begin fogging up, it can be a real pain and can cause significant disruptions to your home. Fortunately, it can be fairly simple to fix the issue once you know the root of the issue. Most of the time, the root of the issue is a failure of the seals between the window panes, allowing moisture to get in. This could be due to poor installation, drainage problems or even defective seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units comprise two glass panes that are sandwiched by a hollow spacer (shown above). The surface of the spacer bar is perforated and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to absorb any moisture. The two glass panes are sealed together and the whole unit is injected with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can see, if the seal fails, moisture can get between the panes causing condensation and mist. This could result in heat escaping from your home, which could result in a significant amount of money being lost due to energy bills.
Unfortunately, repairing double glazing windows that have been misted can be a bit difficult and shouldn't be attempted by those who don't have an extensive understanding of the construction industry. However, if you're prepared to take on the challenge, then it's possible to repair a sealed unit that has been misted by putting moisture-absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Keep in mind that this is a temporary fix, and the condensation might occur again. The process will need to be repeated. It's more efficient to replace the misted glass and it will also be much more hygienic and faster. A replacement will bring back the original insulation to your property and is not achievable by repairing. We suggest getting in touch with a reputable double glazing company if you're struggling with condensation and misty windows. While you wait, make sure that your windows as clean and dry as you can.
Water Leaks
Whether they are new or old, double-glazed windows must not leak. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience but can cause significant damage to your home including mold growth, structural damage and increased 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 working correctly. If you notice condensation between the panes this is a sure sign that the seal on your window has been damaged and that moisture is getting into the gaps between the glass's insulating. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However, if the problem persists and is visible on your home's interior or exterior, it is time to contact a repair service.
Another reason for leaks is the accumulation of water on the bottom frame of your window. double glazing window repairs can be an indication of blocked drain holes or flashing that isn't properly installed or an uneven sill. It is easy to clear a blocked drainage hole by using a coat hanger. Incorrect flashing is also easy to fix by using roofing caulk to fill the gaps in the frame. If the window sill slopes to one side, it could be due to an improper pitch. A professional window repair service will be able determine the root of the issue and offer an affordable and quick solution.
It is not uncommon for UPVC windows that are older to break or leak. However, it is more cost-effective and efficient to hire an expert to repair your double glazing. They can bring back the appearance and function of your windows to the way they were when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges, handles, and locks if necessary. A professional window repair service will also provide you with a form of guarantee for their work, which you could not get if you attempted to fix the window yourself.
Difficulty of Opening
If you notice that your windows are becoming difficult to open, it is best to contact the company from which you purchased them. In the majority of cases the issue can be solved by a simple fix. 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 secure and warm. They include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames with advanced insulation that stops heat from escaping and innovative security hardware.
Condensation between the glass panes is another common indication that double glazing needs repair. This is caused by a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gases are designed to escape between the two panes of glass and be replaced by moist air. This keeps your windows in a breathable state and be energy efficient. If this isn't happening, the seals may have deteriorated or simply broken down in some way, which could happen in time as a result of changing weather conditions or other factors.
A draught coming from the double-glazed windows is an indication that the seals have failed, indicating that cold air is leaked into your home. This can also result in higher energy bills as your heating system has to work more to maintain the temperature of your home.
In certain cases, a draught may be resolved by lubricating handles, hinges or mechanisms on double-glazed windows or doors. However, it is important to remember that this is only a temporary fix and if the problem persists, you'll have to seek out the experts.
You can also put in ventilation devices, like extractors, air bricks, or vents in your windows and doors to alleviate the issue of condensation. It is also important to allow double-glazed windows and doors to 'breathe' by leaving them open as much as possible. This can be accomplished by trickle vents.