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Double Glazed Window Repair
Double-glazed windows are usually covered with a warranty, and it's important to know what this covers. It usually covers any problems with window hardware, such as hinges and locking mechanisms in the first 10 years.
The mist that forms between the glass windows can be caused by a breach in the seal, and it's something that needs to be repaired quickly to stop damp or mould from forming in your house.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation develops between the windows in your home, it is an indication that the seal securing the gas that is used to insulate between the panes has failed. This could be a major problem that should be addressed as soon as you can particularly in winter, when humidity is at its highest. This can also cause damage to the sills, sealant and mould.
Ideally double-glazed windows shouldn't have condensation between the panes. However, it's not uncommon for extreme humidity or a cold snap to trigger this problem. Fortunately, it is fixable without replacing the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes into the glass and then spray the inside of the window with a special cleaning solution. The moisture is then removed from the window and an anti-fogger is fitted to prevent the accumulation of moisture from happening again.
Condensation between windows can also occur due to air leakage or other factors outside the window. If this is the case, it will likely take longer for the moisture to accumulate inside the window, since the air has to be warm enough for the water molecules to vaporise. In these situations it is best to replace double-glazed windows rather than attempt to repair the sealed units.
A double-glazed glass window composed of two or more pieces of insulated tempered 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 such as argon or krypton and then sealed tightly. The seal is responsible for stopping the gas that is insulating from escape, and it also stops air and moisture from getting into the gap.
As windows age, seals get damaged and allow moisture to escape between the glass panes. It is important to recognise when the seals are leaking, as it means that the double glazing isn't functioning as efficiently as it used to. This can lead to an increase in energy efficiency, higher heating costs, damage to the property and the risk of condensation developing between the windows.
Mist
If you have condensation on the outside of your windows, this is totally normal - it indicates that your double glazing is working well and keeping the heat in your home. The condensation is caused by the air outside is hotter than the glass, and then reaches the dew point of the window before the air inside. This is one of the great benefits of having good quality double glazing.
If you notice condensation on the inside of the window, it could be a sign of an issue with ventilation in your home. The moisture that is accumulating can't be absorbed and end in the window, carpets, furniture, and other areas of your home. It is possible to prevent this by having it inspected by a professional and ensuring that there is enough fresh air in the house.
Another reason you could have mist on your double-glazed window is that the seal between the two panes is breaking down. This could be due wear and tear or chemical cleaning solutions that are being employed. The best option is to get the windows repaired as soon as you can.
Repairing your windows professionally will ensure they remain watertight and free from fogging, condensation and misting. It's also cheaper than replacing them all the way through and will also help you save money on your energy costs.
A FENSA certified window installer can provide you with a quote for repair or replacement of your double glazed windows. If your existing windows are old and have been in use for a while you might want to consider changing them to new A-rated energy efficient ones.
It is a good idea to retain copies of any agreements and warranties with the window installers. This will be very useful if any problems with the windows develop in the future, and you then contact your fitters to resolve the issues. This is a better choice than ignoring the problem and causing more problems for your home.
Close or open without difficulty
When double glazed windows are difficult to open and close it isn't just annoying and can result in higher energy bills because of the loss of heat and draughts. It can also pose a security risk, especially when the locks aren't working properly. You should fix any double-glazed windows and doors in the earliest time possible.
If you are unable to open your window and have tried the simplest of fixes such as using a screwdriver in order to break it open, or tapping the frame using a sharp object, the issue could be more serious. The window may have moved and needs to be reset or there may be a gap between the glass and frames. In either case you should consult a double-glazing repair expert to ensure that the repairs are done correctly and to avoid any further issues.
It is not unusual to find UPVC window handle and lock mechanisms to become difficult to operate or become stuck, especially if they are old and worn. This is usually due to a build-up of grease or dirt in the handle. This can be easily resolved by cleaning it using a uPVC cleanser. If this doesn't work, you can try gently tapping the uPVC frame with a hard object like an screwdriver, but be careful not to harm the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this doesn't resolve the problem then the window might need to be replaced, since it is likely that the hinges are no properly aligned, or the locking mechanisms are damaged. In this situation, consult a specialist UPVC window repair expert.
David The Window Wizard is a specialist in double-glazed door and window repairs, including repairing a double-glazed window that has been shut or jammed. He has plenty of experience in converting older window mechanisms into modern ones. This could save you money on replacing the entire window. For more information or to schedule an estimate, call or email today.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are typically an excellent option to save energy in the home. They are composed of two separate panes that contain a spacer or dense gas in between them. This creates a seal that keeps cold air out and warm air inside. Over time, however windows can become damaged or broken and require repair. Most of these repairs can be made without having to replace the entire window.
Warping is a typical issue when double-glazed windows are installed. This happens when windows start to bend, bow or twist, which could impact the structural integrity of the window as well as its insulating capabilities. The best way to prevent this problem is to ensure that your double-glazed windows are properly installed and maintained regularly.
If Find Out More glazed windows are starting to warp, it is important to contact a specialist immediately to help prevent the situation from worsening. They will be able to inspect your windows to identify the root cause. They will use specific tools to correct the problem and ensure that you windows are sealed properly.
Water vapour can cause this issue because it can accumulate between the windows over time. It can be caused by various factors, including the weather conditions such as humidity levels, temperature and changes. To resolve this issue, the specialist will drill out a small hole to release moisture. They will then apply an agent to clean the glass and apply sealant to help protect it from moisture in the future.
In the alternative, if your windows aren't able to be closed or opened, this could be a sign of a break in the mechanism or hinges. It is worth trying to lubricate the areas of the window prior to calling a professional as this can often solve the issue and lessen the necessity for replacements. If your windows are old or don't offer the insulation you want It may be better to replace them.
