Double Glazed Window Repair
Double-glazed windows are usually covered with a warranty, and it's worth examining the scope of this warranty. It typically covers any issues with window hardware, like hinges and locking mechanisms, within the first ten years.
The mist that forms between the glass windows can be caused by a break 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 condensation forms between the windows in your home, it is an indication that the seal securing the gas that insulates between the panes has failed. This can be a serious issue that needs to be dealt with as soon as you can particularly in winter, when humidity is at its highest. This can also cause damage to the sills and sealants, as well as mould.
Ideally, double-glazed windows should never experience condensation between the panes. This could be caused by high humidity or a very cold snap. Fortunately, this issue is repaired without replacing the entire window. A professional can make tiny holes in the window and spray special cleaning solution inside. The water is then sucked out of the window, and an anti-fogger device may be installed to stop further moisture buildup in the future.
Condensation can also occur between windows due to air leakage, or other factors outside the window. In this instance it could take longer for the moisture inside the window to accumulate, as the air must be warm enough to evaporate the water molecules. In these cases it is best to replace double-glazed windows instead of trying to repair the 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 insulating gas like argon or krypton, and then sealed. The seal prevents the gas used to insulate from escaping and also preventing moisture and air from entering through the gap.
As windows age, seals can get damaged and allow moisture to escape between the glass panes. It is crucial to recognize the signs of leaks in the seals, as it means that the double glazing isn't functioning as well as it once was. This could lead to poor energy efficiency, higher heating costs, a damaged property and the risk of condensation between the windows.
Mist
It is perfectly normal to see condensation on your windows. This means that your double glazing system is working properly and is keeping warm in your home. The condensation forms because the outside air is more warm than the glass, and reaches its dew point before the window does. This is among the many benefits of having good quality double glazing.
If the condensation is located on the inside of your window, it could be a sign of a ventilation issue in your home. The excess moisture won't go anywhere else and will end up on the window, carpets furniture, and other areas of your home. This can be prevented by having it inspected by a professional and ensuring that there is sufficient fresh air inside your home.
Another reason for mist on double-glazed windows is because the seal between two glass panes is broken. This could be due to 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.
The professional repair of your windows will ensure that they are waterproof and free of condensation, fogging and misting. It is also a lot less expensive than replacing them all the way through and it will help you save money on your energy bills.
A FENSA registered window installer can 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 while you might want to consider 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 and resolve the issue. This is a better choice than ignoring the issue, which could lead to more problems for your home.
Close or open without difficulty
It's not just a nuisance when double-glazed windows can be difficult to open or close. They can cause more expensive energy bills due to the loss of heat and draughts. It can also pose security risks, particularly if the locks don't work properly. It is important to repair double-glazed windows and doors as soon as possible.
If you can't open your window and have tried the simplest solution like using a screwdriver to prise it open, or tapping the frame with a hard object, then the problem might be more serious. It could be that the window has moved within its frame and requires to be re-set or it could be that there is an opening between the glass panes as well as the frames. In any case, it is recommended to seek out an experienced double glazing repair expert to make sure that the correct repairs are done and to prevent any further problems.
It's not common to find UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to get stuck or hard to operate, especially when they are worn and old. This is due to a build up of grease or dirt inside the handle. It can be solved by cleaning it with a uPVC cleaner. If this does not work, try tapping the uPVC with the help of a screwdriver. Be careful not to damage either the handle or window handle mechanism.
If this does not resolve the problem then the window might need to be replaced, since it is likely that the hinges are no more in the proper position or the locking mechanisms are damaged. In this case, you should contact a UPVC window specialist.
David The Window Wizard is a specialist in double-glazed window and door repairs, including repairing a double-glazed window that has been shut or jammed. He has a wealth of experience the conversion of old window mechanisms into modern ones. upvc door repairs near me can save you the cost of replacing the entire window. For more information or to book a free quote call or email today.
Warping
Double glazed windows are often the best option for saving energy in your home. They consist of two separate panes with a spacer, gas or air between the panes, creating an airtight seal that keeps cold air out and warm air in. However, over time, these windows can become damaged or broken and require repair. Fortunately, the majority of these repairs are simple and can be done without the cost of replacing the entire window.
One common problem that double-glazed windows face is warping. The windows start to bend, bow or twist, which may impact the strength of the window and its insulation capabilities. Double-glazed windows should 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 to prevent the situation from getting worse. They will be able to examine your windows and determine the root cause of the warping. They will then employ special tools to correct the issue and make sure that your windows are completely sealed.
Water vapour can cause this problem, as it can build up between the windows over time. This could be due to many different reasons like the weather, humidity and temperature changes. To resolve this issue the expert will drill tiny holes in the glass to let out the moisture. Then, they will use a cleaning agent to clean the glass and then apply a sealant to help keep it dry in the future.
If your windows cannot be closed or opened it could be due to a broken mechanism or hinges. Before calling an expert to resolve the issue, it's recommended to lubricate these parts. This will usually resolve the issue and reduce your 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.