Double Glazed Window Repair
It's worth checking the warranty included with the majority of double-glazed windows. It usually covers issues with window hardware, like hinges and locking mechanisms, in the first 10 years.
Mist in between glass windows can be caused by a break in the seal and must be fixed quickly to stop damp or mould developing in your property.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation forms between the windows in your home, it's an indication that the seal securing the gas that insulates between the panes has failed. This is a serious problem that should be addressed as soon as possible particularly in winter, when humidity is at its highest. It could also cause damage to sills and sealants, as well as mould.
Ideally, double-glazed windows should never have condensation between the panes. However, it's not common to have high humidity or an extremely cold snap to trigger this issue. Fortunately, this issue is repaired without replacing the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes in the window and spray a special cleaning solution inside. The water is then removed from the window and an anti-fogger is fitted to prevent future moisture buildup.
Condensation can also happen between the windows as a result of air leakage, or other factors outside the window. In this instance it could take longer for moisture in the window to build up as the air must be warm enough to vaporise the water molecules. In these instances it is best to replace double-glazed windows instead of trying to repair the sealed units.
A double-glazed window is constructed from two or three pieces of insulated glass held together by a frame made of metal. The gap in the middle of the windows is filled with a non-toxic insulating gas such as argon or krypton and then sealed tightly. The seal stops the insulating gases from escaping and also blocks moisture and air from getting into the gap.
As the windows age, the seals will deteriorate and can allow moisture to leak into the gaps between the glass panes. If the seals begin to leak it is crucial to be aware of this since it means that the double glazing isn't performing as well as before. This could lead to poor energy efficiency, increased heating bills, damaged properties and the risk of condensation between the windows.
Mist
If you see condensation on the outside of your windows this is perfectly normal and means that your double glazing is in good working order and retaining the heat inside your home. The condensation forms because the outside air is more warm than the glass and reaches its dew point before the window. Double glazing that is of the highest quality is an excellent method to get this.
If you see condensation on the inside of the window, this could be a sign of a ventilation issue in your home. The moisture that is accumulating can't go anywhere else and will end in the carpet, window furniture, and other areas of your home. Getting upvc windows repairs near me checked out by a professional and making sure that there plenty of fresh air moving through the home will help avoid it from happening again.
Another reason why mist appears on double-glazed windows is that the seal between two glass panes is broken. This could be due to wear and tear or chemical cleaning products that are being employed. The best thing to do is fix the windows as soon as you can.
Repairing your windows professionally will ensure that they remain clear of fog free of condensation, and free of misting. It's also cheaper than replacing them all the way through and will save you money on your energy costs.
A FENSA certified window installer can provide you with a quote for the repair or replacement of your double-glazed windows. If your windows are old and have been used for a long time you might want to consider changing them to new A-rated energy efficient ones.
It is recommended to keep copies of any warranties and agreements with your window installers. This can be extremely helpful if any problems with the windows develop in the future, and you can then contact your window fitters to resolve the issues. This is a better choice to ignore the issue which could cause additional problems in your home.
Close or open with difficulty
Double-glazed windows become difficult to open and close, it's not just a nuisance and can result in an increase in energy costs due to the loss of heat and draughts. It could also be security risk, particularly when the locks aren't working properly. It is recommended to fix double-glazed doors and windows as soon as you can.
If you've attempted to open your window using the simplest methods, like using a screwdriver or tapping on the frame with a solid object the problem could be more serious. It could be that the window is sagging in its frame and needs to be re-set or there is a gap between the glass panes and frames. In any case, it is recommended to call in a professional double glazing repair expert to make sure that the correct repairs are made to prevent any further problems.
It's not unusual to find UPVC window handle and lock mechanisms to become difficult to operate or stuck particularly when they're old and worn. It is usually caused by an accumulation of dirt or grease inside the handle. This can be easily resolved by cleaning it with a uPVC cleanser. If this doesn't help, you could try gently tapping the uPVC frame with a sharp object such as an screwdriver, but be careful not to damage the handle or the mechanism for window handles.
If this does not resolve the problem then the window might need to be replaced, as it is likely that the hinges aren't properly aligned or the locking mechanisms are damaged. In this instance you should consult an UPVC window expert.
David The Window Wizard is a specialist in double-glazed window and door repairs, which includes repairing double-glazed windows that have been shut or jammed. He has lots of experience converting old window mechanisms into modern ones. This can save you money by replacing the entire window. For more information or to schedule an estimate, call or email us today.
Warping
Double-glazed windows can be the ideal way to cut down on energy in your home. They are made up of two separate panes which contain a spacer or dense gas between them. This creates a seal that keeps cold air out and warm inside. However with time, the windows may become damaged or broken and require repair. Most of these repairs can be made without replacing the entire window.
A common issue that double glazed windows experience is warping. This happens when the windows begin to flex or twist or bow. This can impact the structural integrity and insulation properties of the windows. The best way to avoid this issue is to ensure that your double glazed windows are installed correctly and maintained regularly.
Contact a specialist as soon as you realize that your double-glazed windows are sagging. This will help to stop the problem from becoming worse. They will be able inspect your windows to determine the reason. They will use special tools to correct your issue and make sure that your windows are sealed properly.
Water vapour is a cause of this issue, since it can build up between the windows over time. This can be caused by various elements, such as the weather conditions, humidity levels and temperature fluctuations. To address this issue, the specialist will drill a tiny hole to let out moisture. The specialist will apply a cleaning agent on the glass to cleanse it and then apply a sealant.
In the alternative, if your windows aren't able to be opened or closed, this could be an indication of a problem with the mechanism or hinges. It is recommended to lubricate the parts of the window before calling in a professional, as this may resolve the issue and decrease the necessity for replacements. However, if your windows are quite old or don't provide the level of insulation that you would like to see, it is often better to replace them.