Double Glazed Window Repair
The majority of double-glazed windows come with a guarantee, and it's important to know what this covers. It usually covers any problems with window hardware, including hinges and locking mechanisms, in the first 10 years.
The mist that forms between the glass windows can be caused by a break in the seal, and it's something that needs to be repaired quickly to stop damp or mould developing in your property.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation develops between the windows in your home, it is an indicator that the seal holding the insulating gas between the panes has failed. upvc windows repairs near me could be a major issue that needs to be dealt with as soon as you can particularly in winter, when humidity is at its highest. It could also lead to damage to the sills, sealant, and may cause mildew or mould.
Ideally double-glazed windows shouldn't be able to experience condensation between the panes. This problem can be caused by high humidity or a very cold snap. The issue can usually be resolved without having to replace the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes in the glass and spray the inside of the window with a specific cleaning solution. The moisture is then removed from the window. Additionally, an anti-fogger is fitted to prevent future moisture buildup.
Condensation can also happen between the windows due to air leakage, or other causes outside the window. If this is the case, it will likely take longer for the moisture to accumulate in the window, as the air must be warm enough to allow the water molecules to vaporise. In these instances it is recommended to replace the double-glazed windows rather than trying to repair the sealed units that are in place.
Double-glazed glass windows are comprised of two or more pieces of tempered, insulated glass that are joined by a framework made of metal. The gap between the two of the windows is filled with a non-toxic gas for insulation like argon or Krypton and then sealed. The seal is responsible for preventing the insulating gas from escaping, and it also stops air and moisture from getting through the gap.
As windows age, the seals deteriorate and can let moisture in the gaps between the glass panes. It is important to know when seals are beginning to leak because it indicates that the double glazing isn't functioning as efficiently as it used to. This could result in an increase in energy efficiency, higher heating bills, property damage and the risk of condensation forming between windows.
Mist
If you see condensation on the outside of your windows, this is perfectly normal and means that your double glazing is functioning properly and retaining the heat inside your home. The condensation occurs because the outside air is warmer than the glass and reaches its dew point before the window does. This is one of the great advantages of having high quality double glazing.
If the condensation is on the side of your window, this can be a sign of a ventilation issue in your home. This is because the extra moisture has no place to go and ends up on your window as well as in carpets, on furniture and other areas in your home. Getting this checked out by an expert and making sure that there is plenty of fresh air flowing through the home will help avoid it in the future.
The other reason you might see mist on your double glazed window is that the seal between the two panes has broken down. This can be caused by wear and tear, or due to the use of chemical cleaning products. If this happens it is best to have the windows repaired as soon as possible.
A professional repair of your windows will ensure that they remain clear of fog, free of condensation and free of misting. It is also less expensive than replacing your windows and you'll save money on your energy bills.
A FENSA-registered window installer can give you a quote to repair or replace your double-glazed Windows. Upgrade your windows to A-rated energy-efficient ones in the event that they are extremely old.
It is a good idea to keep copies of any warranties and agreements with your window fitting company. This will be very useful if any problems with the windows arise in the future, and you can then contact your fitters to resolve the issues. This is a far better option than ignore the issues that will only get worse and may lead to other issues within the home.
Difficulty to Open or Close
If double-glazed windows are difficult to open and close, it isn't just annoying, it can lead to higher energy bills because of heat loss and draughts. It can also be a security issue especially if the locks aren't working correctly. It is essential to fix any issues with double-glazed windows and doors immediately you spot them.
If you are unable to open your window and you've tried the most basic of solutions like using a screwdriver in order to break it open or tapping around the frame using a sharp object, then the issue might be more serious. The window may have shifted and needs to be re-set or there may be a gap in between glass and frames. In either case, you must seek out a double glazing repair specialist to ensure the repairs are completed correctly and to prevent any further problems.
It isn't common to find UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become stuck or hard to operate, especially when they are worn and old. It usually happens due to a build-up of grease or dirt in the handle. This can be easily solved by cleaning it using a uPVC cleanser. If this doesn't work, you could try tapping the uPVC with a screwdriver. Be careful not to damage either the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this does not solve the problem, the window will need to be replaced because the hinges may not be in the proper place or the locking mechanism might have been damaged. In this situation you should speak to an UPVC window specialist.
David The Window Wizard is a specialist in double-glazed window and door repairs, which includes repairing windows that are double-glazed and have been blocked or locked. He has extensive experience with converting discontinued window mechanisms to modern ones and often can save you the cost of replacing the whole window. Contact us today for more details or a free estimate.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are usually an excellent option to save energy in the home. They are made up of two distinct panes, with a spacer air or dense gas between the panes. This creates an airtight seal to keep cold air out and warm air in. In time, however, these windows may be damaged or broken and require repair. Luckily, most of these repairs are simple and can be done without the expense of replacing the entire window.
A common issue that double-glazed windows encounter is warping. This happens when the windows begin to bow or twist or bow. This can impact the structural integrity and insulation capabilities of the window. The best method to avoid this problem is to make sure that double-glazed windows are properly installed and maintained regularly.
If your double glazed windows are starting to crack, it's important to contact a specialist immediately to stop the problem from getting worse. They will be able to inspect your windows to determine the reason. They will employ special tools to fix your problem and ensure that you windows are fully sealed again.
A common cause of this issue is water vapour between the windows, which can build up over time. This can be caused by various elements, such as weather conditions, humidity levels and temperature changes. To remedy this the expert will make tiny holes in the window to release the moisture. The specialist will use a cleaning agent on the glass to clean it, and then apply a sealant.
If your windows can't be shut or opened it could be due to a damaged mechanism or hinges. Before calling an expert to resolve the problem, it is recommended to lubricate the parts. This can often resolve the issue and reduce the need for replacements. If your windows are worn out or don't provide the insulation you require it might be better to replace them.