A Double Glazed Window Repair Success Story You'll Never Remember
Double Glazed Window Repair
It's worth checking the warranty that comes with most double-glazed windows. Generally, it includes any issues with the hardware of the window - hinges and locking mechanisms in the first 10 years.
The mist that forms between the glass windows is usually caused by a crack in the seal, and it's something that requires immediate repair to prevent damp or mould from forming in your house.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation appears between your windows, this could be an indication that the seal holding in the gases that insulate the window has failed. This is a serious problem that needs to be addressed promptly, especially in winter, when humidity levels are at their highest. It could cause damage to the sills and sealant, and even mould or mildew.
Double-glazed windows shouldn't be able to have condensation between the panes. However, it's not common to have high humidity or an extremely cold snap to cause this issue. This issue is usually resolved without the need to replace the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes in the glass and spray the inside of the window with a specific cleaning solution. The moisture is then taken out of the window and an anti-fogger system can be installed to stop any further buildup of moisture in the future.
Condensation can also occur between the windows as a result of air leakage, or other causes outside the window. In this scenario it could take longer for the moisture inside the window to build up, because the air must be sufficiently warm to evaporate the water molecules. In these cases it is more beneficial to replace double-glazed windows rather than attempt to repair the sealed units.
A double-glazed window is constructed up of three or two pieces of insulated glass that are held together by a metal frame. The gap between the two windows is filled with an insulating gas like Krypton or argon and then sealed. The seal prevents the insulating gases from escaping and also blocks air and moisture from entering the gap.
As windows age, seals may get damaged and allow moisture to escape between the glass panes. If the seals begin to leak it is crucial to be aware of this since it indicates that the double glazing no longer performs as well as before. This could result in lower energy efficiency, a rise in heating bills, damage to the property and the risk of condensation between the windows.
Mist
It is perfectly normal to see condensation on your windows. This means that your double glazing system is working correctly and is able to maintain heat in your house. The condensation occurs because the air outside is hotter than the glass, and reaches the dew point of the window prior to the air inside. This is one of the great benefits of having good quality double glazing.
If the condensation is located on the inside of your window then this could be an indication of a ventilation issue in your home. The excess moisture can't go anywhere else and ends in the window, carpets, furniture, and other parts of your home. Getting this checked out by a professional and making sure that there plenty of fresh air moving through the home will help avoid it from happening again.
Another reason you could get mist on your double-glazed window is that the seal between the two panes is breaking down. This can be caused by wear and tear, or by using chemical cleaning solutions. The best option is to get the windows fixed in the shortest time possible.
The professional repair of your windows will ensure that they remain waterproof and free of condensation, fogging and misting. It's also less expensive than replacing them all the way through and will also help you save money on your energy bills.
A FENSA-registered window installer can give you a quote to repair or replace your double glazed Windows. If your windows are quite old and have been in use for a while you may want to think about upgrading them to A-rated energy efficient ones.
It is a great idea to keep copies of any warranties or agreements with your window fitters. It will be useful if you encounter any issues with your windows. You can contact your window fitters and resolve the issue. This is better to ignore the issue, which could lead to more problems for your home.
Close or open with difficulty
Double-glazed windows become difficult to open and close it isn't just annoying, it can lead to increased energy bills due to heat loss and draughts. It can also be a security issue especially when the locks aren't operating properly. You should fix any double-glazed windows and doors as soon as possible.
If you can't open your window and you've tried the simplest solution such as using a screwdriver in order to break it open or tapping around the frame using a sharp object, the issue could be more serious. The window may have moved and needs to be reset or there may be a gap between glass and frames. In either case, consult a double-glazing repair expert to ensure that the repairs are done properly and to prevent further problems.
It is not uncommon to find UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become difficult to operate or stuck, especially if they are old and worn. repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is usually due to a build-up of grease or dirt in the handle. This can be easily resolved by cleaning it with a uPVC cleanser. If this does not work, you can try tapping the uPVC with the help of a screwdriver. Be careful not to damage either the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this doesn't resolve the problem then the window may need to be replaced, as it is likely that the hinges are no longer in the correct position, or the locking mechanisms are damaged. In this instance you should speak to a UPVC window specialist.
David The Window Wizard is a specialist in double-glazed door and window repairs, which includes repairing a double-glazed window that has been blocked or locked. He has vast experience converting discontinued window mechanisms to modern ones and can often save you the cost of replacing the whole window. Contact us now for more information or a no-cost quote.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are usually a great option for saving energy in the home. They consist of two separate panes that contain a spacer or dense gas in between them. This creates a seal which keeps cold air out and warm within. In time, however, these windows may become damaged or break and require repair. Most repairs can be made without having to replace the entire window.
One common problem that double-glazed windows encounter is warping. This occurs when windows begin to bend or twist or bow. This can affect the structural integrity and insulation abilities of the window. Double-glazed windows should be properly installed and maintained to avoid this problem.
If your double-glazed windows are beginning to warp, it is important to contact a specialist immediately to stop the issue from becoming worse. They can inspect your windows and determine the reason for the warping. They will then utilize special tools to correct the issue and make sure that your windows are completely sealed again.
The most common cause of this issue is water vapour between the windows, which can accumulate over time. It can be caused by many different reasons, such as the weather, humidity and temperature variations. To address this issue, the specialist will drill a tiny hole to let out moisture. The specialist will use a cleaning agent on the glass to clean it and then apply sealant.
If your windows cannot be shut or opened it could be due to a malfunctioning mechanism or hinges. It is advisable to lubricate these parts of the window prior to calling in a professional, as this may resolve the issue and lessen the necessity for replacements. If your windows are old or don't provide the insulation you would like to see, it is often better to replace them.