Double Glazed Window Repair
It's worth looking over the warranty included with the majority of double-glazed windows. It usually covers any problems with window hardware, such as hinges and locking mechanisms, within the first ten years.
A leak in the seal is usually the reason for mist appearing between your glass windows. This should be addressed immediately to prevent mould or damp forming in your home.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation develops between the windows in your home, it's an indication that the seal holding the gas that is used to insulate 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 to the sills, sealant, or even mould or mildew.
Ideally double-glazed windows shouldn't be able to experience condensation between the panes. upvc window repairs could be caused by excessive humidity or a particularly cold snap. Fortunately, this is usually repaired without replacing the entire window. A professional can make tiny holes in the window and then spray a special cleaning solution inside. The water is then removed from the window and an anti-fogger system can be fitted to prevent any further buildup of moisture in the future.
Condensation between windows can also occur due to air leakage or other causes outside of the window. If this is the situation, it is likely to take longer for moisture to collect in the window as the air has to be warm enough for the water molecules to evaporate. In these cases it is more beneficial to replace double-glazed windows than attempt to repair the sealed units.
A double-glazed glass window is comprised of two or more pieces of tempered, insulated glass, which are joined by a metal framework. The gap between the two windows is filled with an insulating gas, such as argon or Krypton and then sealed. The seal stops the gases that are insulating from escape and also blocks moisture and air from entering the gap.
As windows age, seals may be damaged, allowing moisture to enter between the glass panes. When seals fail, it is important to recognize this as it signifies that the double glazing no longer performs as well as before. This can result in poor energy efficiency, increased heating bills, damage to the property and the risk of condensation between the windows.
Mist
It is perfectly normal to observe condensation on your windows. This indicates that your double glazing system is operating correctly and is able to maintain warm in your home. The condensation forms because the outside air is warmer than the glass, and reaches its dew point before the window. This is one of the major advantages of having high quality double glazing.
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 carpet, window, furniture, and other parts of your home. This can be avoided by having it checked out by an expert and ensuring that there is enough fresh air in the house.
Another reason for mist to appear on double-glazed windows is that the seal between two panes of glass has been broken. This can be caused by wear and tear or through the use of chemical cleaning products. The most effective solution is to fix the windows as soon as you can.
Professionally repairing your windows will ensure that they are fog-free, free of condensation and free of misting. This is also much cheaper than replacing the windows and you will save money on your energy bill.
A window installer registered with FENSA will provide you with a cost estimate to repair or replace your double-glazed Windows. Upgrade your old windows to energy-efficient A-rated ones if they are very old.
It is best to keep copies of any agreements and warranties with the window installers. This can be extremely helpful if any problems with the windows develop in the future, and you then contact your installers to resolve the issue. This is a better choice than ignoring the problem and causing more problems for your home.
Difficulty to Open or Close
It's not only annoying when double-glazed windows can be difficult to open or close. They can cause more expensive energy bills due to heat loss and draughts. It can also pose security risk, particularly if the locks don't work properly. It is important to repair double-glazed windows and doors as soon as you can.
If you've tried opening your window using one of the easiest methods, such as using a screwdriver or tapping on the frame with a solid object the issue could be more serious. The window could have moved and requires a reset or there may be a gap between glass and frames. In either case, you must seek out a double glazing repair expert to ensure that the repairs are completed correctly and to prevent any further problems.
It is not unusual for UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become difficult to operate or stuck, especially if they are old and worn. This is due to a build up of dirt or grease inside the handle. It can be solved by cleaning it with a uPVC cleaner. If this doesn't work, you can try tapping the uPVC with a screwdriver. Be careful not to damage either the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this does not resolve the issue, then the window may need to be replaced, as it is likely that the hinges are no properly aligned, or the locking mechanisms are damaged. In this case you should consult a UPVC window specialist.
David The Window Wizard is a specialist in double-glazed door and window repairs, including fixing windows that are double-glazed and have been blocked or locked. He has plenty of experience in converting old window mechanisms to modern. This can save you money on replacing the entire window. Contact us today for more information or a free quote.
Warping
Double glazed windows are often an excellent option to save energy in the home. They are composed of two separate panes that have a spacer or dense gas in between them. This creates a seal that keeps cold air out and warm within. Over time, however, these windows may be damaged or broken and require repair. Fortunately, the majority of these repairs are simple and can be completed without the expense of replacing the entire window.
Warping is a typical issue with double-glazed windows. This occurs when windows begin to flex or twist, or bow. This can impact the structural integrity and insulating capabilities of the window. Double-glazed windows must be properly installed and maintained to avoid this issue.
Get in touch with a professional when you notice that your double-glazed windows are sagging. This will help keep the issue from getting worse. They can inspect your windows and identify the cause of the warping. They will employ special tools to correct your problem and ensure that you windows are fully sealed again.
A common cause for this issue is the presence of water vapour between the windows, which can accumulate over time. It can be caused by a number of different factors like humidity, weather conditions and temperature fluctuations. To address this issue, the specialist will drill out a small hole to let out moisture. The specialist will use a cleaning agent on the glass to cleanse it, and then apply a sealant.
Alternatively, if your windows aren't being shut or opened, it could be an indication of a broken mechanism or hinges. It is recommended to lubricate the parts of the window prior to calling a professional as this may resolve the issue and lessen the need for replacements. However, if your windows are very old or don't provide the level of insulation that you'd like to see, it is often better to replace them.