20 Fun Informational Facts About Double Glazed Repair
How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
You should make sure that your double-glazed window frames regularly inspected, especially in the event that they are expanding or shrinking. This will decrease the chance of draughts.
If you notice condensation appearing between the glass panes, it is possible that the seal be failing and needs to be replaced. The seal can be replaced to decrease condensation and help save energy.
Cracked or broken panes
Double glazing is not indestructible and faults can occur which could reduce the efficiency of energy-efficient windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a simple process but the right tools and skills are needed to carry out top-quality repairs. It is recommended to hire a professional to perform the work rather than attempting to do it yourself.
A cracked or broken pane is the most frequent issue for double-glazed windows. This could be a result of a blow or knock on the frame from outside, or from an attempt to open the window that is shut. Glass can crack or break into pieces based on its size and the force applied to crack it.
You can repair a double-glazed glass window that is prone to cracking by using special tape or putty. This will stop the crack from expanding or getting worse and will stop water, wind or any other elements from entering your home through cracks.
Another issue that is common is condensation in double-glazed windows. It is usually caused by a damaged window seal. It is a common occurrence that happens due to temperature and weather changes. Before attempting to repair your windows, you should see if they are still covered under warranty.
This is usually covered by the company who provided you with the double glazing, therefore it's essential to contact them quickly and clearly explain the issue. It is recommended to do this in writing instead of by phone or text message, and always keep an original copy of the correspondence.
Making a hole in the centre of a misted pane is an easy method of fixing it yourself. The desiccant will absorb moisture and help to solve the problem. However, this is only an interim solution, and it is recommended to get double-glazed windows replaced with new units as soon as you can.
Misty Panes
If double-glazed windows begin misting up it can be a major issue and cause a significant disruption in your home. Once you identify the cause it's easy to fix. Most of the time, the root of the issue is a problem with the seals between your window panes, which allows moisture to get in. This could be due to poor installation, drainage problems or even seals that are defective from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units comprise of two glass panes, with an open spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the above image). The inner face of this bar is perforated, and the bars that are used as spacers are filled with a desiccant that is used to absorb any moisture that comes into the unit. The two glass panes will then be bonded together, and the entire unit will be injected with gas to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails then moisture can enter between the panes and this can cause condensation and even mist. This will also lead to heating being lost from your home which could result in an enormous amount of money lost through energy costs.
Unfortunately, fixing double glazing windows that have been misted can be a little tricky and shouldn't be attempted by those who don't have extensive knowledge of the glazing industry and construction industry. If you are willing to tackle the challenge, it's possible to repair a misted sealed window by putting in moisture-absorbing desiccant into the space between the glass panels.
Bear in mind, though this is an interim solution. The condensation will likely return, and the process might need to be repeated. It is much more efficient to replace the misty unit. It's also more efficient and cleaner. A replacement will restore the original insulation of your property, which is not possible by repairing. We suggest getting in touch with a reputable double glazing company if you're struggling with condensation or misty windows. In the meantime, you can try to keep your windows as dry as they can by ensuring that they are well ventilated and cleaned regularly.
Water Leaks
Double-glazed windows should not leak, regardless of whether they're new or old. Leaking windows aren't just a nuisance but they can cause significant damage to your home such as the development of mold, structural damage and increased heating and cooling costs. Contact a professional window company as soon you suspect a problem.
Window leaks could be an indication that the seals between glass panes aren't working correctly. 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 insulating gap between the glass. While local double glazing repair is normal, if it continues to grow and is visible on the outside or inside of your house, it's time to have repairs done.
Another reason for leaks is that water collects at the bottom of the frame of your window. This could be an indication of drainage holes that are blocked or flashing that is not properly installed or an unbalanced sill. A drainage hole that is clogged is easy to fix by using a wire coat hanger to clean out the gunk. Improper flashing is also easy to fix using roofing caulk to fill the gaps in the frame. A misplaced pitch could be the reason of a window sill that slopes to one side. A reputable window repair company can identify the cause and provide an immediate, cost-effective solution.
It is not unusual for UPVC windows that are older to break or leak. However it is much more cost-effective and efficient to use an expert to repair your double glazing. They can restore the look and functionality of your windows to what they were like when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges, locks and handles if needed. Professional window repair firms will give you a guarantee on their work. You wouldn't receive this if you tried to repair windows yourself.
Difficulty of Opening
If you notice that your windows are becoming difficult to open, it is best to get in touch with the company from which you bought windows. In the majority of instances, a simple repair can resolve the issue. If the problem continues and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with new contemporary designs. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer state-of-the-art features that will keep your home warm and secure, including slimline uPVC or aluminium frames and advanced insulation to prevent heat from escaping, as well as sophisticated security hardware that keep out intruders.
Condensation between glass panes is another indication that double glazing needs repair. This is caused by a failure in the seals between the two panes. Inert gas is supposed to get into the glass and replace it with moist air, ensuring that your windows are airtight and thermally efficient. If this isn't the case, the seals may have become less effective over time due to weather conditions or other factors.
A draft that is coming from a double-glazed windows could also be a sign that the seals are failing which means cold air is leaking into your home. This can lead to higher energy bills as your heating system has to work harder to maintain the temperature in your home.
In some cases the draught could be fixed by lubricating the hinges, handles or mechanisms of windows or doors that are double-glazed. It is important to remember that this is only a temporary solution and you'll need to contact the experts if the problem persists.
You can also install ventilation, such as extractors, air bricks, or vents in your doors and windows, to help with condensation issues. You should also let your double-glazed doors as well as windows to 'breathe,' which can be achieved through trickle vents.