20 Misconceptions About Double Glazed Repair: Busted
How to Deal With Double Glazed Repair
It's a good idea to inspect your double-glazed windows regularly, especially if notice the frames are contracting or expanding. This can reduce the possibility of draughts.
If you find condensation between the panes it is a sign that the seal is failing and has to be replaced. Replacing the seal will not only reduce condensation but will also save on energy bills.
Cracked or Broken Panes
Double glazing is not indestructible and there are a few issues that can reduce the energy efficiency of the windows and doors. Repairing double glazing is a relatively straightforward process, but the proper tools and knowledge are required to perform top-quality repairs. It is recommended to hire a professional to do the work, rather than attempting to do it yourself.
A broken or cracked pane is the most frequent problem with double-glazed windows. A blow or knock from the outside can trigger this, as could the 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.
You can repair double-glazed glass windows that is prone to cracking using a special tape or putty. This will prevent the crack growing or becoming worse, and also stop the elements of wind, water or other elements from entering your home through the cracks.
Another problem that is frequently encountered is condensation in double-glazed windows. This is usually the result of a broken window seal. It is a natural occurrence that occurs due to different temperatures and weather conditions, so it is crucial to confirm that your windows are under warranty prior to attempting to fix them.
It's usually covered by the company who sold you your double glazing, so it is important to contact them quickly and clearly explain the issue. It is best to address this in writing instead of via text message or phone and keep the copy of your correspondence.
If you want to try and fix a damaged or misted window by yourself, a popular method involves drilling through the middle of the damaged pane. A desiccant that is specially designed is put in to absorb moisture and this will help the condensation issue to heal itself. However it is an interim solution, and it is recommended to get double-glazed windows replaced with new units whenever possible.
Misted Panes
If double-glazed windows begin getting misty, it can be a real trouble and can cause major disruption in your home. Fortunately, it can be fairly simple to fix the issue once you know what's causing it. Most of the time, the root of the problem is a failure of the seals between the window panes, allowing moisture to enter. This can be caused by poor installation, drainage problems or even faulty seals from the window manufacturer.
Standard sealed units consist of two glass panes, with a hollow spacer bar sandwiched between them (shown in the above image). The inner surface of the spacer bar has been perforated and the spacer bars have been filled with desiccant to absorb any moisture. The two glass panes then be sealed together and the whole unit will be filled with gas in order to improve its thermal efficiency.
As you can imagine, if the sealed unit fails then moisture can get in between the panes and could cause condensation and mist. This will also lead to heat escaping your property which could result in a significant amount of money being lost in energy bills.
Unfortunately, repairing double glazing windows that have been misted can be a little tricky and shouldn't be attempted by anyone who doesn't have extensive knowledge of the construction industry. However, if you are willing to tackle the challenge then it is possible to fix a misted sealed unit by adding moisture absorbing desiccant to the gap between the glass panes.
Be aware that this is only a temporary fix and the condensation may be back. The process will have to be repeated. double glazing repairs near me 's much more efficient to replace misted glass units and it will also be much cleaner and quicker. A replacement will also bring back the original insulation of your house that isn't accessible in repairs. We recommend getting in touch with a reputable double glazing company if you're struggling with condensation and misted windows. In the meantime, try making sure your windows are as dry as they can by ensuring they're properly ventilated and cleaning them regularly.
Water Leaks
If they're new or old, double glazed windows must not leak. Leaking windows aren't only an inconvenience, 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. If you suspect a leak call a reputable window repair company as soon as you can in order to bring the issue fixed.
Window leaks are a sign that the seals between glass panes aren't working properly. If you see condensation between the panes this is a sure sign that the seal on your window has deteriorated and that moisture is seeping into the gaps between the glass's insulating. While some condensation is normal, if it persists and becomes visible on the exterior or interior of your home it is time to have an repair service.
Water accumulating at the bottom of your window frame is another common reason for leaks. This can be an indication of blocked drain holes or flashing that is not properly installed or a sloped sill. A drainage hole that is blocked can be easily fixed by using a wire coat hanger to clear the gunk. By using roofing caulk, you can fix flashing that isn't working properly. A faulty pitch could be the cause of an inclined window sill to one side. A professional window repair service will be able determine the root of the issue and provide an affordable and quick 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 a double glazing repair service. They can restore the appearance and function of your windows to the way they were when they were brand new. They can replace hinges, handles and locks if necessary. A reputable window repair service will also offer a type of warranty for their work, which you could not receive if you tried to fix the window yourself.
Difficulty of Opening
If you notice that your windows are becoming difficult to open, you must get in touch with the company through which you purchased them. In the majority of cases the issue is fixable with an easy fix. If the issue persists then you should think about replacing your windows with more modern ones. Double-glazed windows with modern designs offer the most modern features to keep your home safe and warm. They include slimline uPVC frames or aluminium frames with advanced insulation that stops heat from escaping, as well as innovative security equipment.
Another sign that your double glazing requires repairs is condensation between the glass panes. This is due to an issue with the seals which separate the two panes. Inert gases are supposed to escape between the two panes of glass and be replaced by humid air. This keeps your windows airtight and energy efficient. If this isn't the case, the seals could have been damaged in the course of time due to changes in weather or other elements.
A draft from a double-glazed window can also be a sign that the seals aren't working, which means that cold air is leaking in to your home. This could also lead to higher energy bills as your heating system will need to work harder to maintain the temperature of your home.
In certain cases, a draught may be resolved by lubricating hinges, handles, or mechanisms on double-glazed doors or windows. It is important to note that this is only a temporary solution, and you'll be required to consult with a professional if the problem persists.
You can also put in ventilation systems, such as extractors, air bricks, or vents in your doors and windows to alleviate condensation issues. It is also important to allow your double-glazed doors and windows to breathe by leaving them open to the maximum extent feasible, which can be accomplished by trickle vents.