Double Glazed Window Repair
It's worth checking the warranty included with double-glazed windows in the majority of cases. It generally covers any problems with the window hardware including 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 stop damp or mould developing in your property.
Condensation Between the Windows
If you notice condensation appearing between your windows, it is an indication that the sealing in the gas insulating the windows has failed. This is a serious issue that must be dealt with immediately, particularly in winter, when humidity levels are at their highest. It could also cause damage to the sills, sealant and mould.
Double-glazed windows shouldn't be able to have condensation between the panes. However, it is not unusual to have high humidity or an extremely cold snap to cause this issue. Fortunately, this issue is repaired without replacing the entire window. A professional can make tiny holes in the window and spray a special cleaning solution inside. The water is then drained from the window and an anti-fogger is fitted to stop the build-up of moisture in the future.
Condensation between the windows can be caused by air leakage or other causes outside the window. If this is the scenario, it's likely to take longer for moisture to gather in the window as the air has to be warm enough for the water molecules to vaporise. In these situations 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 insulated tempered glass that are joined by a metal frame. The space between the windows is filled with an insulating gas like Krypton or argon and then sealed. The seal prevents the insulating gases from escaping and also blocks moisture and air from entering the gap.
As windows age, the seals will get worse and allow moisture to enter the gap between the glass panes. It is important to recognise the signs of leaks in the seals and this means that the double glazing is no longer performing as well as it used to. This could lead to poor energy efficiency, increased heating costs, a damaged property and the risk of condensation between the windows.
Mist
If you see condensation on the outside of your windows, this is perfectly normal and indicates that your double glazing is functioning properly and retaining the heat in your home. The condensation is caused by the outside air is hotter than the glass, and then reaches the dew point of the window prior to the air inside. Double glazing that is of the highest quality is a great way to get this.
If you notice condensation on the inside of the window, this could indicate an issue with ventilation in your home. This is because the excess moisture has no place to go and is deposited on your window as well as in carpets, on furniture and other areas within your home. This can be prevented by having it checked out by a professional and ensuring that there is sufficient fresh air in the house.
Another reason for mist on double-glazed windows is because the seal between two panes of glass has broken. This can be due to wear and tear or chemical cleaning solutions being employed. If this happens, the best option is to get the windows repaired as soon as possible.
The professional repair of your windows will ensure that they are dry 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 costs.
A registered window installer with FENSA will provide you with a cost estimate to repair or replace your double glazed windows. Upgrade your old windows to A-rated energy-efficient ones if they are very old.
It is a great idea to keep copies of any warranties or agreements with your window fitters. It will be helpful if you have any future problems with your windows. Contact your window fitters to resolve the issue. This is a better option than ignore the issues, which will only get worse and could lead to other issues in your home.
Open or close with difficulty
If double-glazed windows become difficult to open and close it's not just a nuisance but it could also result in increased energy bills due to loss of heat and drafts. It can also be a security issue especially when the locks aren't functioning properly. It is vital to fix any issues with double glazed windows and doors when you spot them.
If you can't open your window and have tried the simplest of fixes like using a screwdriver in order to break it open or tapping around the frame with a tough object, then the issue may be more serious. The window may have moved and needs to be reset or there may be a gap in between glass and frames. In either case, you should seek out a professional double glazing repair expert to ensure that the right repairs are done and to prevent any further problems.
It's not common for UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to get stuck or unusable, especially when they are worn out and worn. This is usually due to a build-up of dirt or grease inside the handle. This is easily fixed by cleaning it with a uPVC cleanser. If this doesn't help, you can try tapping the uPVC frame with a hard object like a screwdriver, being careful not to damage the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this doesn't resolve the problem then the window might need to be replaced, as it is likely that the hinges are no properly aligned or the locking mechanisms are damaged. In this instance you should consult a UPVC window 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 a lot of experience in converting older window mechanisms to modern. Repair My Windows And Doors can save you money in the replacement of the entire window. Contact us now for more information or a free quote.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are typically the best option for saving energy in the home. They consist of two separate panes which have a spacer, or dense gas in between them. This creates a seal which keeps cold air out and warm within. In time, however, these windows may be damaged or broken and require repair. The majority of these repairs can be completed without the need to replace the entire window.
Warping is a frequent issue with double-glazed windows. This happens when the windows begin to bow or twist or bow. This can impact the structural integrity and insulation abilities of the window. Double glazed windows should be properly installed and maintained to avoid this problem.
Get in touch with a professional immediately if you realize 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 then use specific tools to correct the issue and make sure that your windows are sealed.
A common cause for this issue is water vapour in the windows which can accumulate over time. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including weather conditions such as humidity levels, temperature and fluctuations. To fix this problem, the specialist will drill a small hole to let the moisture out. The specialist will use an agent for cleaning on the glass to cleanse it, and then apply a sealant.
In the alternative, if your windows aren't able opened or closed, this could be a sign of a break in the mechanism or hinges. Before calling a professional to address the issue, it's worthwhile to grease these parts. This will usually resolve the issue and decrease the need for replacements. However, if your windows are old or do not provide the insulation you would like to see It is generally better to replace them.