14 Questions You Might Be Insecure To Ask About Double Glazed Repair
How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It is recommended to ensure that your double-glazed window frames are inspected regularly, particularly in the event that they are shrinking or expanding. This can reduce the chance of drafts.
If you find condensation in between the panes, this is an indication that the seal is failing and needs to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only help to reduce condensation, but also save on energy bills.
Broken or cracked panes
Double glazing isn't indestructible and faults can occur which can affect the energy efficiency of the windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a simple process but the right tools and knowledge are required to make quality repairs. It is generally recommended to employ a professional do the work, rather than try to do it yourself.
The most common fault that occurs with double-glazed windows is a cracked or broken pane. This can be a result of a knock or blow to the frame from the outside, or from an attempt to open the window that is shut. The glass might break or crack into small pieces, based on the size of the crack and the force applied to it.
If windows with double glazing are susceptible to cracking, it can be repaired by using a form of putty or special tape. This will prevent the crack from extending or getting worse. It will stop any moisture, wind or other elements from entering the home through the cracks.
Condensation of double glazing is a different issue that is common and is usually caused by a failure of the window seal. It is a normal phenomenon that happens due to weather and temperature changes. Before attempting to fix your windows, make sure to see if they are still covered under warranty.
This is usually covered by the company that supplied you with your double glazing, so it is important to contact them quickly and clearly explain the issue. It is best to do this in writing instead of via text message or phone, and always keep the copy of your correspondence.
Drilling a hole into the centre of a misted pane is a common method of fixing it yourself. A desiccant that is specially designed is inserted to absorb any moisture and this will help the condensation issue to heal itself. However, this is only temporary solution, and it is recommended that you have double-glazed windows replaced with new units whenever possible.
Misted Panes
When double-glazed windows start getting misty, it can be a huge pain and can cause significant disruptions to your home. However, it is fairly easy to fix the issue once you understand what's causing it. Most of the time, the root of the issue is a problem with the seals between the window panes, allowing moisture to get in. This could be caused by poor installation, drainage problems or even defective seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units comprise of two glass panes with a hollow spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the image above). The inner surface of the spacer bar has been perforated and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant in order to absorb moisture. The two glass panes will be bonded together and the whole 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 can add up to a significant amount of money squandered in energy costs.
Repairing a misted glass is a difficult task that shouldn't be attempted by a person who doesn't have extensive knowledge of the construction and glazing industries. However, if you're willing to tackle the challenge, then it's possible to repair a sealed unit that has been misted by putting moisture-absorbing desiccant back into the space between the glass panes.
Keep in mind that this is only a temporary fix and the condensation might occur again. The process will have to be repeated. It is more efficient to replace a misted unit. It's also cleaner and faster. A replacement will bring back the original insulation of your home and is not achievable by repairing. We recommend contacting with a reputable double-glazing company if you're struggling with condensation and misted windows. While you wait, make sure to keep your windows as clean and dry as possible.
Water Leaks
Whether they are new or old, double glazed windows must not leak. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, but they could cause significant damage to your home including mold growth and structural damage as well as higher heating and cooling costs. If you suspect that your windows are leaking you should contact a professional window repair service as soon as possible to get the problem under control.
Window leaks are usually a sign of an issue with the seals that connect the panes of glass. If you see condensation between the panes, this is a sure sign that your window seal has been damaged and that moisture is seeping into the insulation gap between the glass. A little condensation is perfectly normal. However should the issue persist and appears on your home's interior or exterior it is the right time to contact a repair service.
Another reason for leaks is water collecting on 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 a sloped sill. It is easy to clear a blocked drain hole by using a coat hanger. Improper flashing is also easy to fix by using roofing caulk to fill the gaps around the frame. If the window sill is sloped to one side, it could be due to an incorrect pitch. A reputable window repair company will be able to identify the cause and provide a fast, cost-effective solution.
While it is not uncommon for old UPVC windows to leak or break but it is more efficient and cost-effective to seek out an expert double-glazed repair service. They can bring back the appearance and functionality of your windows to what they were like when they were brand new. They can also replace hinges, handles and locks if necessary. Professional window repair companies will offer you a guarantee on their work. You wouldn't receive this if you were to repair windows yourself.
Difficulty to Open
If you notice that your windows are getting difficult to open, you must get in touch with the company through which you bought them. In the majority of cases, a simple repair can resolve the issue. If the issue persists then you should think about replacing your windows with more modern ones. Double-glazed windows are available with the most recent features to ensure your home is secure and warm. They include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames with high-tech insulation that stops heat from escaping and innovative security equipment.
Condensation between glass panes is another common indication that double glazing requires repair. glass glazier repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk is due to an issue with the seals between 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 airtight and thermally efficient. If this doesn't happen, the seals might have become damaged or simply broken down in some way, which can occur in the course of time because of weather changes or other factors.
A draft that is coming from a double-glazed window can also be a sign that the seals are failing and cold air is leaking into your home. This can lead to higher energy bills as your heating system will need to work harder to keep the temperature of your home.
In some instances, the draught could be solved by lubricating hinges, handles or mechanisms on your double-glazed doors or windows. It is crucial to note that this is a temporary solution and you will be required to consult with a professional in the event that the issue continues to persist.
You can also add ventilation devices, like extractors, air bricks or vents in your windows and doors to alleviate condensation issues. It is also recommended to allow your double-glazed doors and windows to breathe, which can be achieved with trickle vents.