Double Glazed Window Repair
The majority of double-glazed windows come with a warranty, and it's important to know what this covers. Generally, it includes any problems with the window hardware including hinges and locking mechanisms - in the first 10 years.
The mist that forms between the glass windows is often caused by a crack in the seal, and it's something that requires immediate repair to prevent damp or mould growing in your home.
Condensation Between the Windows
If you notice condensation appearing between your windows, it is an indication that the seal in the gas insulating the windows has failed. This is a serious issue that needs to be dealt with immediately especially in winter when humidity is at its highest. It can also cause damage to the sills and sealant, or even mould or mildew.
Ideally, double-glazed windows should never experience condensation between the panes. This is often caused by extreme humidity or a cold snap. This issue is usually resolved without having to replace the entire window. A professional can drill small holes into the glass and spray the inside of the window with a specially-formulated cleaning solution. The moisture is then removed from the window and an anti-fogger device may be fitted to prevent further accumulation of moisture in the future.
Condensation can also happen between windows due to air leakage, or other factors outside the window. In this instance it can take a longer time for moisture in the window to build up as the air must be sufficiently warm to evaporate the water molecules. In these cases it is recommended to replace the double-glazed windows rather than repair the existing sealed units.
Double-glazed glass windows are composed of two or more pieces of insulated tempered glass that are joined by a framework made of metal. The space between the windows is filled with an insulating gas like argon or Krypton and then sealed. The seal stops the insulating gases from leaving and also prevents moisture and air from getting into the gap.
As the windows get older, the seals get worse and allow moisture to leak into the gap between the glass panes. If the seals begin to leak it is crucial to recognize this as it signifies that the double glazing is no longer performing the way it did in the past. This can lead to lower energy efficiency, increased heating bills, damage to property, and the risk of condensation developing between the windows.
Mist
If you see condensation on the outside of your windows, it is totally normal - it means that your double-glazed is working well and keeping the heat in your home. The condensation forms because the outside air is warmer than the glass and it reaches its dew point before the window does. Double glazing of high quality is a fantastic way to achieve this.
If the condensation is located on the inside of your window then this could be an indication of a ventilation problem in your home. The moisture that is accumulating can't be absorbed and end up on the window, carpets, furniture, and other areas of your home. Getting this checked out by a professional and making sure that there plenty of fresh air flowing through the home will help avoid it from happening again.
Another reason for mist on double-glazed windows is because the seal between two glass panes is broken. This can be caused by wear and tear or through the use of chemical cleaning solutions. If this happens it is best to get the windows repaired as soon as possible.
Repairing your windows professionally will ensure that they are waterproof and free of condensation, fogging and misting. It is also a lot cheaper than replacing them all the way through and it will reduce your energy bills.
A FENSA certified window installer can provide you with a quote for repair or replacement of your double-glazed windows. Upgrade your windows to A-rated energy-efficient ones when they are old.
It is a very good idea to keep copies of any warranties or agreements with your window fitting company. This can be extremely helpful should any issues with the windows arise in the future, and you then contact your installers to resolve these issues. This is a better option to ignore the issue, which could lead to additional problems in your home.
Close or open with difficulty
When double glazed windows are difficult to open and close, it's not just a nuisance, it can lead to increased energy bills due to the loss of heat and draughts. It could also be a security risk, especially when the locks aren't working properly. It is important to repair double-glazed doors and windows as soon as you can.
If you've attempted to open your window using one of the easiest methods, like using a screwdriver or tapping the frame using a solid object, the issue may be more serious. It could be that the window has shifted within its frame and requires to be re-set or it could be that there is gaps between the glass panes as well as the frames. In either case, you must contact a double glazing repair specialist to ensure the repairs are done properly and to prevent further problems.
It's not uncommon to find UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become stuck or unusable particularly when they're worn and old. This is due to an accumulation of grease or dirt inside the handle. It can be cured by cleaning it with a uPVC cleaner. If this does not work, try tapping the uPVC using the screwdriver. Be careful not to harm the handle or window handle mechanism.
If this doesn't solve the problem then the window might need to be replaced, as it is likely that the hinges aren't properly aligned, or the locking mechanisms are damaged. In this situation, consult a specialist UPVC window repair expert.
David The Window Wizard specialises in all technical aspects of double-glazed window and door repair including fixing a jammed or shut double glazed window. He has a lot of experience in converting older window mechanisms into modern. This can save you money by replacing the entire window. Call or email us today for more information or a no-cost quote.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are a great way to save energy in your home. They are made up of two separate panes that have a spacer, or dense gas between them. This creates a seal that keeps cold air out and warm air inside. However with time, windows can become damaged or broken and require repair. Fortunately, the majority of these repairs are easy and can be completed without the cost of replacing the entire window.
Warping is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. This occurs when the windows start to bow, bend or twist, which could impact the structural integrity of the window as well as its ability to insulate. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors to avoid this problem is to ensure that double-glazed windows are properly installed and maintained regularly.
Contact a professional immediately if you realize that your double-glazed windows are sagging. This will help to prevent the situation from getting worse. They will be able inspect your windows to identify the root cause. They will then use special tools to fix the issue and make sure that your windows are completely sealed.
A common cause for this issue is the presence of water vapour between the windows, which can build up over time. This could be due to many different reasons including weather conditions, humidity and temperature changes. To remedy this the expert will make a small hole through the glass to let out the moisture. Then, they will use a cleaning agent to clean the glass and apply sealant to help keep it dry in the future.
In the alternative, if your windows aren't able to be closed or opened, this could be a sign of a broken mechanism or hinges. It is worth trying to lubricate these parts of the window before calling in a professional, as this may resolve the issue and reduce the need for replacements. If your windows are old or do not provide the level of insulation that you'd like to have, it is often better to replace them.