Double Glazed Window Repair
Most double glazed windows come with a warranty, and it's worth examining what it covers. In general, it covers problems with the window hardware such as hinges and locking mechanisms in the first 10 years.
Mist in between glass windows can be caused by a break in the seal, and it's something that must be fixed quickly to prevent damp or mould growing in your home.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation forms between windows in your home, it is an indication that the seal holding the insulating gas between the panes has failed. This is a serious problem that must be dealt with immediately, particularly in the winter months when humidity levels are at their highest. It could also lead to damage around the sills and sealant, and even mould or mildew.
Double-glazed windows shouldn't have condensation between the panes. This is often caused by excessive humidity or a particularly cold snap. Fortunately, this is usually repairable without having to replace the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes in the glass and then spray the inside of the window with a specific cleaning solution. The moisture is then removed from the window and an anti-fogger system can be fitted to prevent further moisture buildup in the future.
Condensation can also happen between the windows due to air leakage, or other causes outside the window. In this instance, it may take longer for the condensation in the window to build up, because the air must be warm enough to vaporise the water molecules. In these instances it is more beneficial to replace double-glazed windows than trying to repair the sealed units.
A double-glazed windows is made up of three or more pieces of insulated glass held together by a frame made of metal. The gap between the two of the window is filled with a non-toxic insulating gas such as argon or krypton and then sealed. The seal is responsible for preventing the gas used to insulate from escaping and also preventing air and moisture from getting through the gap.
As windows age, seals be damaged, allowing moisture to enter between the glass panes. It is important to recognise when the seals are leaking because it indicates that the double glazing isn't functioning as efficiently as it used to. This could lead to poor energy efficiency, increased heating bills, damage to the properties and the risk of condensation between the windows.
Mist
It is normal to see condensation appear on your windows. This means that your double glazing system is working properly and is keeping heat in your house. The condensation occurs because the outside air is more warm than the glass and it reaches its dew point before the window does. This is among the many advantages of having high quality double glazing.
If the condensation is located on the side of your window, it could be a sign of a problem with the ventilation in your home. The moisture that is accumulating can't go anywhere else and ends in the carpets, windows, furniture, and other parts of your home. This can be avoided by having it checked out by an expert and ensuring that there is plenty of fresh air in the house.
Another reason for mist on double-glazed windows is because the seal between two glass panes has been broken. This can be caused by wear and tear or through the use of chemical cleaning products. The best thing to do is fix the windows as soon as you can.
upvc repair of your windows will ensure they remain dry and free of fogging, condensation and misting. It is also a lot cheaper than replacing them all the way through and will save you money on your energy bills.
A window installer registered with FENSA will provide you with a cost estimate to repair or replace your double-glazed windows. If your existing windows are quite old and have been in use for a long time, you may want to consider changing them to new A-rated energy efficient ones.
It is a great idea to keep copies of any warranties and agreements with your window fitters. This can be extremely helpful in the event that any issues with your windows arise in the future, and you are able to then contact your installers to resolve the issues. This is a better choice than ignoring the issue which could cause additional problems in your home.
It is difficult to open or close
It's not just annoying when double-glazed windows are hard to open or close. They could cause more energy costs due to the loss of heat and drafts. It could also be a security risk, especially when the locks aren't working correctly. It is important to repair double-glazed doors and windows as soon as you can.
If you have attempted to open your window using one of the easiest methods, such as using a screwdriver or tapping on the frame with a solid object, the issue may be more serious. It could be that the window has moved in its frame and needs to be re-set or there is gaps between the glass panes and the frames. In either case, seek out a double glazing repair specialist to ensure the repairs are completed correctly and to prevent any further problems.
It's not uncommon for UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to get stuck or difficult to operate, especially when they are worn and old. It usually happens due to a build-up of dirt or grease inside the handle. This can be easily resolved by cleaning it with a uPVC cleanser. If this doesn't work, you can try tapping the uPVC using the help of a screwdriver. Be careful not to scratch the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this doesn't resolve the problem, the window will need to be replaced as the hinges may not be in the correct position or the locking mechanism might be damaged. In this instance, you must seek out a professional 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 shut double glazed window. He has a lot of experience in converting older window mechanisms into modern ones. This can save you money by replacing the entire window. For more information or to schedule an estimate, call or email today.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are usually a great option for saving energy at home. They consist of two separate panes which have a spacer, or dense gas between them. This creates a seal which keeps cold air out and warm inside. However with time, these windows can become damaged or broken and require repair. Luckily, most of these repairs are simple and can be completed without the expense of replacing the entire window.
A common issue that double-glazed windows face is warping. This occurs when windows begin to flex, twist or bow. This can impact the structural integrity and insulating abilities of the window. The best method to avoid this problem is to ensure that double-glazed windows are installed correctly and maintained regularly.
Contact a specialist when you notice that your double-glazed windows are sagging. This will help to stop the problem from becoming worse. They will be able to inspect your windows to pinpoint the root cause. They will make use of specific tools to correct the problem and ensure that you windows are sealed properly.
The most common cause of this issue is water vapour in the windows which can get accumulated over time. This can be caused by various factors, including the weather such as humidity levels, temperature and changes. To fix this problem the expert will drill out a small hole to let the moisture out. They will then use an agent for cleaning to wash the glass and then apply sealant to help keep it dry in the future.
In the alternative, if your windows aren't able shut or opened, it may be a sign of a break in the mechanism or hinges. Before calling a professional to fix the problem, it is worthwhile to grease the parts. This can usually fix the issue and reduce your need for replacements. However, if your windows are old or do not provide the level of insulation that you would like to see, it is often better to replace them.