The Most Significant Issue With Double Glazed Repair, And How You Can Fix It
How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
You should ensure that your double-glazed window frames are inspected regularly, particularly if they are expanding or shrinking. This will decrease the risk of drafts.
If you notice condensation between the panes this is an indication that the seal is failing and has to be replaced. Replacing repair double glazing will not only reduce condensation, but also reduce energy costs.
Cracked or Broken Panes
Double glazing is not impervious to damage and there are a few issues that can reduce the energy efficiency of the windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a relatively easy process, however the right tools and knowledge are required to carry out high-quality repairs. It is usually best to hire a professional to do the work, rather than attempting to do it yourself.
A cracked or broken pane is the most frequent issue for double-glazed windows. It could be the result of a knock or blow to the frame from the outside or a failed attempt to open the window that is closed. The glass may break or crack into smaller pieces, depending on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
You can repair double-glazed glass that is susceptible to cracking by using special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack from extending or getting worse. It will block any wind, water or other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Condensation in double-glazed windows is a different issue that is common and is often the result of a breakdown of the window seal. It is a normal phenomenon that happens due to temperatures and weather conditions. Before you attempt to repair your windows, make sure to check if they're covered by the warranty.
It's usually covered by the company that provided you with the double glazing, therefore it's essential to contact them promptly and clearly explain the issue. It is recommended to do this in writing instead of by text or phone, and always keep a copy of your correspondence.
If you're looking to try and fix a damaged or misted window yourself, a typical method is to drill a hole into the centre of the affected pane. The desiccant will absorb any moisture and help to solve the problem. This is only a temporary fix and it is recommended that you replace your double-glazed units with new ones as soon as possible.
Misty Panes
Double-glazed windows that fog up can be a real nuisance and cause major disruptions in your home. Once you identify the cause it's easy to repair. Most of the time the issue is due to a problem in the seals which separate your window panes. This allows moisture to enter. Poor installation, 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 inserted between them (shown in the image above). The inner face of this spacer bar is perforated. the bars are filled with a desiccant that is used to absorb any moisture that comes into the unit. The two glass panes then be sealed, and the entire unit will be filled with gas to increase its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails then moisture can enter between the panes, and this can create condensation and mist. This can also result in heat escaping from your property, which can result in a significant amount of money lost to energy bills.
However, fixing the misted double glazing window can be a little tricky and isn't something that should be attempted by anyone without the necessary knowledge of the glazing industry and construction industry. If you are willing to take on the challenge, it is possible to repair the misted seal of a window by putting in moisture-absorbing desiccant into the space between the glass panels.
Keep in mind, however it's only a temporary solution and the condensation will likely return and the process could need to be repeated. It is more efficient to replace a misted unit. It will also be cleaner and faster. A replacement will restore the original insulation of your property and is not achievable by repairing. We recommend getting in touch with a reputable double-glazing firm if you're experiencing condensation or misty windows. While you wait, make sure to keep your windows as dry and clean as possible.
Water Leaks
Whether they are new or old, double-glazed windows must not leak. Leaking windows aren't only a nuisance, but can cause serious damage to your home. This includes the growth of mold and structural damage as well as higher heating and cooling costs. Contact a professional window service as soon as you suspect a problem.
Window leaks are an indication that the seals between glass panes aren't functioning correctly. If you notice condensation between the glass panes, it is a sign that the seal between the two panes has deteriorated. Moisture is now seeping through the insulating space that is between the two panes. While a little condensation is normal, if it is persistent and becomes visible on the outside or inside of your house, it's time to call an repair service.
Another reason for leaks is that water collects on the bottom frame of your window. This could be a sign of drain holes that are blocked, improper flashing or a sloped sill. It is simple to clear a blocked drain hole by using a coat hanger. Flashing that isn't properly installed is also simple to fix by using roofing caulk to fill in the gaps around the frame. If the window sill is sloping to one side, it could be due to an improper pitch. A reputable window repair company will be able to determine the cause and provide a fast, cost-effective solution.
Although it is not uncommon for old UPVC windows to leak or break however, it is more efficient and cost-effective to hire an expert double-glazed repair service. They can restore the look and functionality of your windows to how they were when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges, locks and handles if needed. A reputable window repair service will also give you some type of warranty for their work, which you could not get if you attempted to repair the window yourself.
It is difficult to open
If you notice that your windows are getting harder to open, you should contact the company from which you purchased them. In most cases, a simple repair can fix the problem. If the issue persists and you are unable to resolve it, you should consider replacing your windows with new windows that are more modern in design. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer modern features that keep your home safe and warm, including slimline uPVC or aluminium frames, advanced insulation to stop heat from escaping, as well as innovative security hardware to deter intruders.
Condensation between glass panes is another common sign that double glazing requires repair. This is due to a failure of the seals that connect the two panes. Inert gas is supposed be able to escape between the glass and replace it with moist air, ensuring that your windows remain well-insulated and thermally efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals might have become damaged or simply broken down, which is something that could happen over time as a result of weather changes or other causes.
A draught emanating from your double-glazed window is another sign that the seals have failed, indicating that cold air is leaked into your home. This could also lead to higher energy costs since your heating system will have to work harder to keep the temperature of your home.
In certain cases, the draught could be solved by lubricating the hinges, handles, or mechanisms on your double-glazed doors or windows. However, it is important to remember that this is only a temporary fix and if the problem persists, you will need to contact a professional.
You can also add ventilation systems, such as air bricks, extractors or vents in your doors and windows to alleviate condensation issues. It is also important to allow double-glazed windows and doors to breathe by leaving them open to the maximum extent feasible, which can be accomplished by trickle vents.