Double Glazed Window Repair
Double-glazed windows are usually covered with a guarantee, and it's important to know what it covers. It usually covers issues with window hardware, such as hinges and locking mechanisms, within the first 10 years.
Mist in between glass windows can be caused by a crack in the seal and needs to be repaired quickly to prevent damp or mould growing in your home.
Condensation Between the Windows
If you notice condensation appearing between your windows, it is an indication that the seal in the gas insulating the windows has failed. This is a serious issue that must be dealt with promptly, especially in the winter months when humidity levels are at their highest. It could also lead to damage to the sills and sealant, or even mould or mildew.
Double-glazed windows should not have condensation between the panes. However, it's not common to have extreme humidity or a cold snap to cause this issue. Fortunately, it is repairable without having to replace the entire window. A professional can make small holes in the glass and then spray the inside of the window with a specific cleaning solution. The water is then sucked out of the window and an anti-fogger device 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 case, it may take longer for moisture in the window to accumulate, as the air must be sufficiently warm to evaporate the water molecules. In these instances it might be more beneficial to replace the double-glazed windows rather than trying to repair the seals on the existing units.
A double-glazed window is constructed consisting of three or two pieces of insulated glass, held together by a metal frame. The space between the windows is filled with an insulating gas such as Krypton or argon and then sealed. The seal is responsible for stopping the gas used to insulate from escaping and also preventing air and moisture from entering into the gap.
As windows get older, the seals deteriorate and can allow moisture to enter the gaps between the glass panes. It is important to know when seals are beginning to leak and this means that the double glazing isn't functioning as well as it used to. This could lead to an increase in energy efficiency, higher heating bills, damage to property and the risk of condensation forming between the windows.
Mist
It is perfectly normal to see condensation appear on your windows. This means that your double glazing system is functioning properly and is keeping warm in your home. upvc window repair because the outside air is warmer than the glass and it reaches its dew point before the window does. This is one of the great advantages of having high-quality double glazing.
If you see condensation on the inside of the window, it could indicate a ventilation issue 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 within your home. The process of having this examined by a professional and making sure that there plenty of fresh air moving through the house will help to prevent it from happening in the future.
Another reason for mist on double-glazed windows is because the seal between two glass panes has broken. This can be due to wear and tear or chemical cleaning solutions that are being used. The most effective solution is to get the windows fixed as soon as you can.
A professional repair of your windows will ensure that they are fog-free free of condensation and free of misting. This is also much cheaper than replacing your windows and you will save money on your energy bill.
A FENSA-registered window installer can give you a quote to repair or replace your double glazed windows. If your windows are quite old and have been in use for a long time, you might want to consider changing them to new A-rated energy efficient windows.
It is best to keep copies of any warranties and agreements with the window installers. This will be very useful should any issues with the windows occur in the future, and you can then contact your window fitters to resolve the issues. This is a better option than simply not addressing the issue that will only get worse and may lead to other problems in the home.
Close or open with difficulty
If double-glazed windows become difficult to open and close it's not just an inconvenience but it could also result in increased energy bills due to heat loss and draughts. It can also be a security problem especially when the locks aren't operating correctly. It is important to repair double-glazed windows and doors in the earliest time possible.
If you can't open your window and you've tried the most basic of solutions such as using a screwdriver to prise it open, or tapping the frame with a tough object, then the issue may be more serious. The window could have moved and needs to be reset or there could be a gap in between glass and frames. In any case, it is recommended to seek out a professional double glazing repair expert to ensure that the right repairs are done and to prevent future problems.
It is not common for UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become difficult to operate or get stuck particularly if they're old and worn. It is usually caused by a build-up of dirt or grease in the handle. This can be easily solved by cleaning it with a uPVC cleanser. If this doesn't work, you can try tapping the uPVC frame using a hard object like a screwdriver, being careful not to scratch the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this does not solve the issue then the window will have to be replaced as the hinges may not be in the proper position or the locking mechanism could have been damaged. In this situation, you should contact an UPVC window specialist.
David The Window Wizard is a specialist in double-glazed door and window repairs, including repairing double-glazed windows that have been blocked or locked. He has plenty of experience converting old window mechanisms into modern ones. This could save you money by replacing the entire window. For more information or to request an estimate, call or email us today.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are typically an excellent option to save energy at home. They are made up of two panes that have a spacer or dense gas between them. This creates a seal that keeps cold air out and warm within. However in time, the windows may become damaged or broken and require repair. Fortunately, the majority of these repairs are simple and can be completed without the cost of replacing the entire window.
Warping is a typical issue when double-glazed windows are installed. This happens when windows start to bow, bend or twist, which could impact the structural integrity of the window as well as its insulation capabilities. Double-glazed windows must be properly installed and maintained to avoid this problem.
Get in touch with a professional when you notice that your double-glazed windows are sagging. This will help to keep the issue from getting worse. They will be able to inspect your windows and determine the root cause of the warping. They will then utilize special tools to correct the issue and ensure that your windows are completely sealed.
Water vapour is a cause of this issue, since it can build up between the windows over time. This could be due to a number of different factors, such as the weather, humidity and temperature fluctuations. To resolve this issue, the specialist will drill out a small hole to release moisture. The specialist will apply a cleaner on the glass to cleanse it and then apply sealant.
If your windows aren't able to be shut or opened, it could be due to a malfunctioning mechanism or hinges. It is advisable to grease these parts of the window before calling in a professional, since this will often resolve the issue and lessen the need for replacements. If your windows are dated or do not provide the insulation you desire, it may be better to replace them.