Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing that has broken seals or defective glass can cause problems such as condensation, draughts, and leaks. The condensation between windows can cause frames to rot and even cause damage to the frames. It can also be damaging to health as exposure to excessive moisture can cause mould and asthma.
While it is possible to fix double-glazed windows on your own if you have good DIY skills however, it is recommended to get a professional's help in most cases.
Broken Panes
Double pane windows can be a fantastic feature in any home, but they can be an issue in the event that one of them is broken. A damaged window can trigger various issues. From more condensation to higher energy costs It is recommended to call a residential glass service when you detect the crack.
The primary issue with a window that is broken is that the seals have lost their effectiveness, and so you can't reseal it. This is because double-pane windows are constructed with the space between two glass panes and that space is usually filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton. These gases reduce heat transfer, making the windows more energy efficient than regular glass.
If a double-pane window is damaged, it's important to take action quickly, as if you leave the window open for too long then it will lose its insulating properties. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able repair it with a type of adhesive that's placed within the crack. It is usually a form of putty or tape, and it will stop the window from deteriorating further and even breaking completely.
Before attempting to replace a damaged pane of glass, ensure that you are wearing protective gloves and that you have a large rubble bag that you can place the glass in after it's removed. You can also attach newspaper to the broken glass prior to attempting to remove it. This will allow you to capture any fragments that fall and then dispose of them in a safe manner. After removing the glass, you will need to remove the old glazing putty from the frame, as well as any glaziers' points made of metal.
Condensation
When you see visible condensation on the windows of your double glazing, it is an indication that the seals or gaskets have been damaged, allowing moisture to get into the gap between the panes. This not only makes windows appear milky, but it also affects their energy efficiency and could cause a rise in heating costs.
You can try to stop this from happening by cleaning your windows on a regular basis and making sure that they aren't allowed to become damp or dirty. Air flow is important to improve ventilation in your home and avoid excessive condensation on surfaces such as carpets, furniture, and walls. This can be done by not drying laundry indoors, avoiding tumble dryers opening windows to let air flow through vents as often as possible, and keeping doors open in the interior (when you are not cooking or showering).
If you've recently had new double glazing installed or the windows you have are covered by a guarantee, and you need to contact the company who installs them as they should be willing to fix the issue at no extra cost, subject to the terms of the warranty. Do not attempt to alter your double glazing as this could damage the warranty and cause further damage.
If you need to replace your double-glazed window units it is recommended to upgrade them to A-rated glass. This will improve their insulation as well as reduce heating costs. It is also important to keep in mind that a replacement window may be less expensive than replacing the whole frame if it is damaged. You may even be able to put the window into an existing frame if this is an option.
Draughts
Double-glazed windows are strong and long-lasting, however they can also be subject to tear and wear. In some instances this can lead to issues that require targeted repairs instead of replacing the entire window. Many of these issues are easily fixable and are much less expensive than installing a new window.
A typical issue is a sensation of cold draughts emanating from the windows, especially during windy days. This is usually an indication that the seals within the frame have failed. This can also be caused from condensation in the space between the two panes. Professional window repair companies will replace your window in both cases, to eliminate the draft and decrease the energy cost.
Another sign that your windows need repairs is if they're difficult to open and close them. This may be because of a warped frame, damaged hardware or the accumulation of dirt. If this is the case, it's crucial to get the windows repaired by a professional as soon as you can to avoid further damage.
Condensation occurring between the windows' panes suggests that the seal is damaged and this can cause dampness in your home. It could also affect the efficiency of your windows leading to higher heating costs. If this is the situation it is advisable to contact an expert in double glazing repair who can fix the sealed units to restore their effectiveness.
If your double-glazed windows are still covered under warranty, be sure to contact the company that supplied windows as soon as you can and follow this by sending an email or letter rather than a phone text message or phone call. This will ensure that you're covered under your warranty and ensure that the issue is dealt promptly.
Leaks
If you notice a mist or moisture spreading between your double-glazed window frames, it is likely that the seal has failed. This is a serious problem because it means that the inert gas between your glass panes has escaped and water is entering your home. This can cause damp and mould. This is an easy fix that can be carried out by a double-glazing repair specialist.
Leaks around a double-glazed window typically occur in the space between the frame and the sill. This is usually the result of an ineffective window sealant. It's typically a brittle or soft type of caulking. As the weather changes, if the caulking is becoming soft or cracked, it may begin to let water in around your doors and windows. It is best to get the caulking replaced or repaired when this occurs.
A silicone seal that holds glass in place can also cause leaks if the seal is damaged or weak. This is more prevalent in older uPVC Windows, but can also occur with newer ones. This is a sign of a door or window that has not been properly maintained. Repair it as soon as you can to prevent further damage.
It may also be difficult to remove the condensation that builds up between your windows. This is a sign of a failed seal between the panes therefore it is crucial to replace this immediately. If not repaired, this could result in leaks and lower energy efficiency. Some companies offer drilling the sealed unit to eliminate the condensation. However this is only an interim solution and could be expensive.
Damage
Double glazing is an excellent way to save on energy as it keeps warm air inside while keeping cold air outside. Over time, double glazing can develop flaws that could decrease its efficiency and make it look unattractive. The causes could be a damaged window pane, misted glass or a handle that's broken. Most upvc window repair near me of these faults are fixable and are typically less expensive than replacing the whole window.
A common problem is the damaged seals that separate the two panes. This can be caused by poor installation or chemical cleaners, or simply age. In this instance, condensation will build up or mist could form between the panes. The glass may be difficult to clean. A repair technician will usually replace the damaged glass pane and close the gap, eliminating any lingering moisture that could cause further damage.
Draughts are another common problem with double glazing. This can be caused by a variety of reasons, including the accumulation of dirt and dust on the hinges and locking mechanism. They can be repaired by a skilled professional using specialised tools to eliminate the build-up of materials and then lubricating all moving parts. This helps them perform more efficiently and dramatically reduce the risk of draughts.
It is important to repair double-glazed windows that are leaky or damaged as soon as you can. Moisture in your home can cause damage to furniture and fabrics, but can also cause mold growth and decay. They can be costly to fix. It is recommended to choose an established company that can provide double glazing repair at a a reasonable price.