Double Glazed Window Repair
It is worth looking into the warranty included with double-glazed windows in the majority of cases. In general, it covers problems with the window hardware - hinges and locking mechanisms within the first 10 years.
Mist in between glass windows is often caused by a break in the seal and requires immediate repair to prevent mould or damp developing in your property.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation forms between the windows in your home, it is an indicator that the seal securing the insulating gas between the panes has failed. This is a serious problem that needs to be addressed immediately, especially during the winter months when humidity levels are at their highest. It can also cause damage around the sills and sealant, or even mildew or mould.
Ideally double-glazed windows shouldn't be able to experience condensation between the panes. This problem can be caused by high humidity or a very cold snap. The issue can usually be resolved without the need to replace an entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes in the window and spray special cleaning solution inside. The water is then removed from the window. Additionally, an anti-fogger is fitted to stop the build-up of moisture in the future.
Condensation in the windows could be caused by air leakage or other causes outside of the window. In this scenario it could take longer for the moisture inside the window to build up because the air must be sufficiently warm to evaporate the water molecules. In these instances, it is better to replace double-glazed windows than attempt to repair the sealed units.
A double-glazed glass window is composed of two or more pieces of insulated tempered glass that are joined by a framework made of metal. The gap in the middle of the windows is filled with a non-toxic insulating gas such as argon or krypton and then sealed tightly. The seal is responsible for preventing the insulating gas from escaping and also preventing air and moisture from entering into the gap.
As windows age, the seals get worse and allow moisture to leak into the gap between the glass panes. When seals fail, it is important to recognize this as it means that the double glazing isn't performing as well as before. This can result in poor energy efficiency, increased heating costs, a damaged property, and the possibility of condensation between the windows.
Mist
If you see condensation on the outside of your windows, it is perfectly normal and means that your double glazing is functioning properly and retaining the heat inside your home. The condensation is caused by the air outside is hotter than the glass, and reaches the dew point of the window earlier than the air inside. This is one of the great advantages of having high quality double glazing.
If you notice condensation on the inside of the window, this could be a sign of an issue with ventilation in your home. This is because the excess moisture has nowhere to go and ends up on your window, in carpets, in furniture and other areas in your home. It is possible to prevent this by having it checked out by a professional and making sure that there is plenty of fresh air in the house.
Another reason why you may see mist on your double-glazed window is that the seal between the two panes has broken down. This could be due to wear and tear or chemical cleaning solutions that are being employed. The best option is to get the windows repaired as soon as you can.
Repairing your windows professionally will ensure they remain fog-free free of condensation and free of misting. It is also less expensive than replacing the windows and you will save money on your energy bill.
A FENSA registered window installer can provide you with a quote for the repair or replacement of your double glazed windows. If your existing windows are very old and have been used for a long time you may want to think about upgrading them to A-rated energy efficient windows.
It is best to keep copies of any warranties and agreements with the window installers. It will be useful if you experience any problems with your windows. You can reach out to your window fitters and work out the problem. This is better to ignore the issue, which could lead to further problems in your home.
Open or close with difficulty
It's not just annoying when double-glazed windows can be difficult to open or close. They could cause more expensive energy bills due to the loss of heat and draughts. It can also pose security risk, particularly if the locks don't work correctly. You should fix any double-glazed windows and doors in the earliest time possible.
If you're unable to open your window and you've tried the simplest solution such as using a screwdriver to prise it open or rubbing the frame with a hard object, then the issue might be more serious. The window may have shifted and requires a reset or there could be a gap in between glass and frames. In either case, contact a double glazing repair expert to ensure that the repairs are done correctly and to prevent any further problems.
It isn't uncommon for UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become stuck or hard to operate particularly when they're old and worn. This is usually due to an accumulation of dirt or grease in the handle. This can be easily solved by cleaning it using a uPVC cleanser. If this doesn't work, you can try tapping the uPVC frame with a sharp object, such as a screwdriver, taking care not to harm the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this doesn't resolve the issue, then the window might need to be replaced as it is likely that the hinges are no more in the proper position, 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 repair of doors and windows, including fixing a jammed or locked shut double glass window. He has vast experience changing old window mechanisms to modern ones. He can often save you the cost of replacing the entire window. For more information or to book an appointment for a free quote, contact us by phone or email us today.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are typically the best option for saving energy at home. They are made up of two distinct panes that have a spacer, air or dense gas between the panes. This creates an airtight seal to keep cold air out and warm air inside. Over time, however, these windows may become damaged or break and require repair. The majority of these repairs can be completed without replacing the entire window.
A common issue that double-glazed windows face is warping. The windows begin to bow, bend or twist, which could impact the structural integrity of the window and its insulating capabilities. The best method to avoid this problem is to make sure that double-glazed windows are properly installed and maintained regularly.
If your double glazed windows are beginning to swell, it's important to contact a specialist immediately to prevent the issue from becoming worse. They will be able inspect your windows to pinpoint the cause. upvc repairs will employ specific tools to correct the problem and ensure that you windows are fully sealed again.
Water vapour can cause this issue, since it can accumulate between the windows over time. This could be due to various elements, such as the weather as well as humidity levels and temperature fluctuations. To address this issue, the specialist will drill out a small hole to release moisture. The specialist will apply an agent for cleaning on the glass to cleanse it, then apply an adhesive.
Alternatively, if your windows aren't able opened or closed, this may be a sign of a break in the mechanism or hinges. Before calling a professional to fix the problem, it is worth lubricating these parts. This will usually resolve the issue and decrease your need for replacements. If your windows are old or don't offer the insulation you require it might be better to replace them.