Double Glazed Window Repair
Double-glazed windows are usually covered with a guarantee, and it's worth checking what this covers. It usually covers any problems with window hardware, like hinges and locking mechanisms in the first 10 years.
A break in the seal is usually the reason for mist appearing between your glass windows. This issue must be addressed immediately to prevent mold or damp growing in your home.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation forms between windows in your home, it is an indication that the seal holding the insulating gas between the panes has failed. This can be a serious issue that needs to be dealt with as soon as you can especially in winter when humidity is at its highest. It can also cause damage around the sills and sealant, and even mildew or mould.
Ideally double-glazed windows shouldn't be able to experience condensation between the panes. However, it's not unusual for high humidity or an extremely cold snap to cause this problem. Fortunately, it is repairable without having to replace the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes in the window and spray a special cleaning solution inside. The moisture is then taken out of the window, and an anti-fogger system can be fitted to prevent further moisture buildup in the future.
Condensation between the windows can be due to air leakage, or other factors outside the window. In this instance it can take a longer time for moisture in the window to build up, as the air must be warm enough to vaporise the water molecules. In these cases, it is better to replace double-glazed windows than trying to repair the sealed units.
A double-glazed window is made from three or two pieces of insulated glass that are held together by a frame made of metal. 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 prevents the gases that are insulating from escape and also blocks moisture and air from entering the gap.
As windows age, seals can be damaged, allowing moisture to enter between the glass panes. When seals fail it is crucial to notice this because it means that the double glazing no longer performs as efficiently as it did before. upvc repairs could lead to lower efficiency in energy use, higher heating costs, damage to the property and the possibility of condensation forming between the windows.
Mist
If you have condensation on the outside of your windows this is perfectly normal and indicates that your double glazing is working well and keeping the heat in your home. The condensation is caused by the air outside is warmer than the glass, and then reaches the dew point of the window earlier than the air inside. This is one of the great advantages of having high quality double glazing.
If the condensation is on the side of your window, this could be an indication of a ventilation problem in your home. The moisture that is accumulating can't go anywhere else and ends in the carpets, windows, furniture, and other areas of your home. This can be avoided by having it checked out by an expert and ensuring that there is enough fresh air in your home.
Another reason for mist to appear on double-glazed windows is because the seal between two glass panes has been broken. This can be due to wear and tear or chemical cleaning solutions being used. The best option is to get the windows repaired in the shortest time possible.
Having your windows professionally repaired will ensure they remain dry and free of fogging, condensation and misting. It's also less expensive than replacing them all the way through and will also help you save money on your energy costs.
A registered window installer with FENSA can provide you with a price to repair or replace your double-glazed windows. If your existing windows are old and have been used for a long time you may want to think about changing them to new A-rated energy efficient windows.
It is a good idea to retain copies of any warranties and agreements with your window installers. It will be useful if you experience any problems with your windows. You can reach out to your window fitters and work out the issue. This is a better choice than ignoring the issue which could cause additional problems in your home.
It is difficult to open or close
Double-glazed windows become difficult to open and close it's not just a nuisance, it can lead to increased energy bills due to heat loss and draughts. It could also be security risks, particularly if the locks don't work properly. You should fix any double-glazed doors and windows as soon as you can.
If you are unable to open your windows and have tried the most basic of solutions such as using a screwdriver to pry it open, or tapping the frame using a sharp object, then the problem could be more serious. The window could 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 double glazing repair expert to ensure that the repairs are done correctly and to avoid any further issues.
It's not uncommon to find UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become stuck or unusable, especially when they are old and worn. This is due to a build up of dirt or grease inside the handle and can often be resolved by cleaning it using a uPVC cleaner. If this does not work, you can try tapping the uPVC with a screwdriver. Be careful not to scratch the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this does not resolve the problem then the window may have to be replaced, as it is likely that the hinges are no more in the proper position, 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 glazed window. He has plenty of experience in converting older window mechanisms to modern. This can save you money on replacing the entire window. Contact us today for more details or a free quote.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are an excellent way to save energy in your home. They consist of two separate panes that have a spacer, gas or air between the panes, creating a seal to keep cold air out and warm air inside. Over time, however windows can become damaged or break and require repair. Most of these repairs can be done without replacing the entire window.
One common problem that double-glazed windows encounter is warping. This occurs when the windows begin to bow, bend, or twist, which could impact the structural integrity of the window as well as its insulation capabilities. Double-glazed windows should be properly installed and maintained to avoid this problem.
If your double glazed windows are beginning to warp, it is essential to speak with a professional immediately to stop the issue from becoming worse. They can inspect your windows and identify the root cause of the warping. They will then use special tools to fix the issue and make sure that your windows are sealed.
The most common cause of this issue is the presence of water vapour that is trapped between the windows, which can get accumulated over time. This can be caused by many factors, such as the weather, humidity levels and temperature changes. To resolve this issue the expert will drill tiny holes in the glass to let out the moisture. They will then use an agent for cleaning to wash the glass and apply an adhesive to protect it from moisture in the future.
If your windows can't be opened or shut it could be due to a broken mechanism or hinges. It is recommended to grease these parts of the window before calling in a professional, since this will often resolve the issue and reduce the necessity for replacements. If your windows are dated or don't offer the insulation you desire it might be better to replace them.