Double Glazed Window Repair
Most double glazed windows come with a guarantee, and it's important to know what this covers. It usually covers issues with window hardware, like hinges and locking mechanisms, within the first 10 years.
Mist in between glass windows can be caused by a crack in the seal and needs to be repaired quickly to prevent mould or damp growing in your home.
Condensation Between the Windows
If you notice condensation forming between your windows, this could be an indication that the sealing in the gases that insulate the window has failed. This is a serious issue that should be addressed immediately, particularly in winter, when humidity levels are at their highest. It could also cause damage to sills or sealants and also cause mould.
Double-glazed windows should not have condensation between the panes. This issue is often caused by high humidity or a very cold snap. This issue is usually resolved without having to replace the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes in the window and spray special cleaning solution inside. The water is then taken out of the window and an anti-fogger device can be fitted to prevent further moisture buildup in the future.
Condensation can also happen between windows due to air leakage, or any other cause outside the window. If this is the scenario, it's likely to take longer for moisture to gather inside the window, since the air has to be sufficiently warm for the water molecules to vaporise. In these cases, it may be better to replace the double-glazed windows rather than trying to repair the existing sealed units.
A double-glazed window is constructed up of three or more pieces of insulated glass, held together by a metal frame. The gap in the middle of the window is filled with a non-toxic gas for insulation like argon or krypton, and then sealed tightly. The seal prevents the insulating gases from leaving and also blocks moisture and air from entering the gap.
As windows age, seals may get damaged and allow moisture to escape between the glass panes. It is important to know when the seals are leaking because it indicates that the double glazing is no longer functioning as efficiently as it once was. This could result in lower energy efficiency, higher heating bills, damaged properties and the risk of condensation between the windows.
Mist
If you see condensation on the outside of your windows this is normal and means that your double-glazed is in good working order and retaining the heat inside your home. The condensation occurs because the air outside is warmer than the glass, and reaches the dew point of the window earlier than the air inside. This is one of the major advantages of having high quality double glazing.
If you see condensation on the inside of the window, this could be an indication of a ventilation issue in your home. This is because the excess moisture has nowhere to go and ends up on your window, in carpets, in furniture and in other places within your home. It is recommended to have this checked by an expert and ensuring that there plenty of fresh air moving through the home will help avoid it in the future.
Another reason for mist on double-glazed windows is because the seal between two panes of glass is broken. This can be due to wear and tear or chemical cleaning products being employed. If this is the case it is best to get the windows repaired as soon as possible.
Repairing your windows professionally will ensure they remain watertight and free from condensation, fogging and misting. This is also much cheaper than replacing the windows and you will save money on your energy bill.
A FENSA registered window installer will provide you with a cost estimate for repair or replacement of your double-glazed windows. If your windows are quite old and have been in use for a long time, you may want to think about upgrading them to new A-rated energy efficient ones.
It is a very good idea to keep copies of any warranties and agreements with your window fitting company. It will be useful if you encounter any issues with your windows. You can contact your window fitters to resolve the issue. This is a better choice than ignoring the issue, which could lead to more problems for your home.
It is difficult to open or close
If double-glazed windows become difficult to open and close it's not just a nuisance but it could also result in increased energy bills due to loss of heat and drafts. www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk could also be a security risk, especially when the locks aren't functioning properly. It is recommended to fix double-glazed doors and windows as soon as possible.
If you have tried to open your window using the simplest methods, such as using an electric screwdriver or tapping the frame with a solid object the problem could be more serious. It could be that the window has moved within its frame and requires to be reset or it could be that there is gaps between the glass panes and the frames. In either of these scenarios, you must seek out a professional double glazing repair expert to ensure that the proper repairs are made and to prevent any further problems.
It is not uncommon for UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become difficult to operate or stuck particularly when they're old and worn. This is due to an accumulation of dirt or grease inside the handle and can often be solved by cleaning it with a uPVC cleaner. If this doesn't work then you can try tapping the uPVC frame using a hard object, such as a screwdriver, taking care not to harm the handle or the mechanism for window handles.
If this doesn't resolve the problem, the window will need to be replaced because the hinges may no longer be in the proper place or the locking mechanism could have been damaged. In this case, you should contact a UPVC window specialist.
David The Window Wizard specialises in all technical aspects of double-glazed window and door repair, including fixing a jammed or locked shut double glazed window. He has lots of experience in converting old window mechanisms into modern. This could save you money on replacing the entire window. Call or email us today for more details or a no-cost quote.
Warping
Double glazed windows are often the best option for saving energy in the home. They consist of two separate panes that have a spacer, air or a dense gas between the panes, which creates an airtight seal that keeps cold air out and warm air inside. In time, however, these windows may be damaged or broken and require repair. Fortunately, the majority of repairs are simple and can be accomplished without the expense of replacing the entire window.
One of the most common issues double-glazed windows encounter is warping. The windows begin to bow, bend or twist, which can impact the strength of the window as well as its insulating capabilities. Double-glazed windows should be properly installed and maintained to avoid this issue.
If your double-glazed windows are beginning to swell, it's essential to speak with a professional immediately to prevent the situation from worsening. They will be able to examine your windows and identify the cause of the warping. They will make use of special tools to correct your issue and ensure that your windows are sealed properly.
The most common cause of this issue is the presence of water vapour that is trapped between the windows, which can build up over time. This can be caused by various factors, including weather conditions as well as humidity levels and temperature fluctuations. To fix this problem, the specialist will drill out a small hole to let the moisture out. The specialist will use a cleaner on the glass to cleanse it and then apply an adhesive.
If your windows cannot be opened or shut it could be due to a damaged mechanism or hinges. It is recommended to lubricate the areas of the window prior to calling in a professional, as this may resolve the issue and decrease the necessity for replacements. If your windows are old or don't provide the insulation you require It may be better to replace them.