Double Glazed Window Repair
The majority of double-glazed windows come with a guarantee, and it's important to know the scope of this warranty. It typically covers any issues with window hardware, including hinges and locking mechanisms in the first 10 years.
Mist in between glass windows can be caused by a breach in the seal and must be fixed quickly to prevent mould or damp developing in your property.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation forms between windows in your home, it is an indicator that the seal that holds the gas that insulates between the panes has failed. This is a serious problem that should be addressed immediately particularly in winter, when humidity is at its highest. It could cause damage around the sills and sealant, and even mildew or mould.
Double-glazed windows should not have condensation between the panes. However, it's not unusual to have high humidity or an extremely cold snap to trigger this problem. Fortunately, it is repaired without replacing the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes into the window and spray special cleaning solution inside. The moisture is then sucked out of the window, and an anti-fogger system can be fitted to prevent further accumulation of moisture in the future.
Condensation in the windows could be due to air leakage or other causes outside the window. In this scenario it can take a longer time for moisture in the window to build up as the air must be sufficiently warm to vaporise the water molecules. In these cases it might be more beneficial to replace the double glazed windows rather than repair the sealed units that are in place.
Double-glazed glass windows are composed of two or more pieces of tempered, insulated glass, which are joined by a metal frame. The gap between the two of the windows is filled with a non-toxic gas for insulation like argon or Krypton and then sealed tightly. The seal prevents the gas that is insulating from escape and also preventing moisture and air from entering through the gap.
As windows age, the seals deteriorate and can allow moisture to leak into the gap between the glass panes. It is crucial to recognize when seals are beginning to leak and this means that the double glazing is no longer functioning as well as it once was. This can lead to lower efficiency in energy use, higher heating bills, property damage and the possibility of condensation developing between the windows.
Mist
If you have condensation on the outside of your windows, this is normal and means that your double glazing is functioning properly and retaining the heat in your home. The condensation happens because the air outside is warmer than the glass, and then reaches the dew point of the window prior to the air inside. This is one of the major advantages of having high quality double glazing.
If you see condensation on the inside of the window, this could be an indication of a ventilation issue in your home. The moisture that is accumulating can't be absorbed and end up on the window, carpets, furniture, and other parts of your home. The process of having this examined by an expert and ensuring that there is plenty of fresh air flowing through the home will help prevent it in the future.
Another reason you could have mist in your double-glazed window is that the seal between the two panes has broken down. This could be due to wear and tear or chemical cleaning products that are being used. If this happens it is best to repair the windows as soon as possible.
Repairing your windows professionally will ensure they remain waterproof and free of fogging, condensation and misting. It is also a lot cheaper than replacing them completely and will also save you money on your energy bills.
A registered window installer with FENSA can provide you with a price to repair or replace your double glazed Windows. Upgrade your windows to energy efficient ones that are A-rated in the event that they are extremely old.
It is a good idea to retain copies of any agreements and warranties with the window installers. This can be extremely helpful should any issues with the windows arise in the future, and you then contact your fitters to resolve these issues. This is a far better option than simply ignore the issues, which will only get worse and may lead to other issues within the home.
Close or open without difficulty
Double-glazed windows are difficult to open and close it's not just an inconvenience and can result in increased energy bills due to the loss of heat and draughts. It can also pose security risks, particularly when the locks aren't working properly. It is important to repair double-glazed doors and windows as soon as you can.
If you've tried to open your window using the most basic methods, such as using an electric screwdriver or tapping the frame with a solid object, the issue may be more serious. It could be that the window has shifted in its frame and needs to be set again or there is gaps between the glass panes and frames. In either case, you should contact a professional double glazing repair expert to ensure that the right repairs are made to prevent future problems.
It's not uncommon to find UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become difficult to operate or stuck particularly if they're old and worn. upvc door repairs near me is due to the accumulation of dirt or grease inside the handle and can often be resolved by cleaning it using a uPVC cleaner. If this doesn't help, you can try gently tapping the uPVC frame with a hard object, such as an screwdriver, but be careful not to harm the handle or the mechanism for window handles.
If this doesn't solve the issue, then the window may have to be replaced as it is likely that the hinges are no properly aligned or the locking mechanisms are 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 window and door repair including fixing a jammed or locked shut double glass window. He has plenty of experience in converting old window mechanisms into modern. This can save you money by replacing the entire window. For more information or to book an estimate, call or email today.
Warping
Double glazed windows are often a great option for saving energy in your home. They are made up of two distinct panes, with a spacer air or a dense gas between the panes, which creates an airtight seal to keep cold air out and warm air in. However with time, windows can be damaged or broken and require repair. The majority of these repairs can be completed without replacing the entire window.
One common problem that double glazed windows experience is warping. The windows start to bow, bend or twist, which could alter the structural integrity of the window and its ability to insulate. Double-glazed windows should be properly installed and maintained to avoid this issue.
If your double-glazed windows are beginning to swell, it's important to contact a specialist immediately to prevent the problem from getting worse. They will be able inspect your windows to determine the reason. They will then employ specific tools to correct the problem and ensure that your windows are completely sealed.
Water vapour is a cause of this problem, as 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 fix this, the specialist will drill a small hole in the window to let out the moisture. The specialist will apply a cleaning agent on the glass to cleanse it, and then apply a sealant.
Alternatively, if your windows aren't able shut or opened, it could be a sign of a problem with the mechanism or hinges. Before calling an expert to resolve the problem, it is worth lubricating the parts. This can often resolve the issue and reduce your need for replacements. If your windows are worn out or don't offer the insulation you desire it might be better to replace them.