Double Glazed Window Repair
It's worth checking the warranty that comes with double-glazed windows in the majority of cases. It generally covers any issues with the hardware of the window such as hinges and locking mechanisms in the first 10 years.
A leak in the seal can be the reason for mist to form between your glass windows. This issue must be fixed immediately to avoid mold or damp growing in your home.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation appears between your windows, this is an indication that the seal holding in the gases that insulate the window has failed. This can be a serious issue that needs to be dealt with immediately particularly in winter, when humidity is at its highest. It could also cause damage to sills, sealant and mould.
Double-glazed windows should not have condensation between the panes. However, it is not uncommon for high humidity or an extremely cold snap to cause this issue. Fortunately, it is fixable without replacing the entire window. A professional can drill small holes in the glass and then spray the inside of the window with a specific cleaning solution. The moisture is then removed from the window and an anti-fogger device can be installed to stop further accumulation of moisture in the future.
Condensation can also occur between the windows due to air leakage, or other causes outside the window. If this is the scenario, it's likely to take longer for moisture to gather in the window, as the air will need to be sufficiently warm for the water molecules to evaporate. In these instances it is recommended to replace the double-glazed windows rather than trying to repair the seals on the existing units.
A double-glazed window is constructed up of two or three pieces of insulated glass that are held together by a frame made of metal. The gap between the two windows is filled with an insulating gas like Krypton or argon, and then sealed. The seal is responsible for stopping the gas that is insulating from escape and also preventing air and moisture from entering into the gap.
As the windows age, the seals weaken and allow moisture to leak into the gap between the glass panes. When seals fail, it is important to notice this because it means that the double glazing is no longer performing the way it did in the past. This could result in lower energy efficiency, increased heating costs, a damaged property, and the possibility of condensation between the windows.
Mist
It is perfectly normal to see condensation on your windows. This indicates that your double glazing system is working correctly and is able to maintain heat in your house. The condensation happens because the outside air is hotter than the glass, and then reaches the dew point of the window prior to the air inside. Double glazing of high quality is a great way to accomplish this.
If the condensation is located on the side of your window, this can be a sign of a ventilation problem in your home. The excess moisture can't be absorbed and end up on the carpets, windows furniture, and other parts of your home. It is possible to prevent this by having it checked out by an expert and ensuring that there is sufficient fresh air in your home.
Another reason why you may see 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 being employed. The most effective solution is to fix the windows in the shortest time possible.
A professional repair of your windows will ensure they remain fog-free free of condensation, and free of misting. It is also a lot cheaper than replacing them entirely and will reduce your energy costs.
A window installer registered with FENSA can give you a quote to repair or replace your double-glazed windows. If your existing windows are quite old and have been used for a long time you may want to consider changing them to new A-rated energy efficient windows.
It is a very good idea to keep copies of any warranties or agreements with your window fitting company. It can be helpful in the event that you encounter any issues with your windows. You can reach out to your window fitters and work out the issue. This is a far better option than ignore the issues, which will only get worse and may lead to other problems in the home.
Close or open with difficulty
When double glazed windows become 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 pose security risk, particularly if the locks don't work properly. It is crucial to address any issues with double glazed doors and windows immediately you discover them.
If you have tried to open your window using one of the easiest methods, such as using an electric screwdriver or tapping the frame using a solid 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 must seek out a double glazing repair expert to ensure that the repairs are completed correctly and to avoid any further issues.
It is not uncommon to find UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to become difficult to operate or become stuck particularly if they're old and worn. This is caused by an accumulation of dirt or grease inside the handle and can often be cured by cleaning it using a uPVC cleaner. If this doesn't work then you can try tapping the uPVC frame using a hard object like a screwdriver, being careful not to damage the handle or the mechanism for window handles.
If this doesn't solve the issue, then the window may need to be replaced, as it is likely that the hinges are no longer in the correct position, or the locking mechanisms are damaged. In this case you should speak to an UPVC window 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 glazing window. He has vast experience changing old window mechanisms to modern ones. He can often save you the cost of replacing the whole window. Contact us now for more information or a no-cost quote.
Warping
Double-glazed windows are a great way to save energy in your home. They are composed of two panes that have a spacer or dense gas in between them. This creates a seal that keeps cold air out and warm inside. However in time, the windows may become damaged or broken and require repair. Most of these repairs can be completed without the need to replace the entire window.
One common problem that double glazed windows experience is warping. This occurs when the windows begin to bow, bend or twist, which can alter the structural integrity of the window and its ability to insulate. The best method to avoid this problem is to make sure that double-glazed windows are installed correctly and maintained regularly.
If your double-glazed windows are beginning to crack, it's essential to speak with a professional immediately to prevent the situation from worsening. They will be able to inspect your windows and identify the reason for the warping. They will use special tools to correct your issue and ensure that your windows are completely sealed.
Water vapour can trigger this issue because it can build up between the windows over time. This can be caused by many elements, such as the weather such as humidity levels, temperature and fluctuations. To resolve this issue the expert will make a small hole through the glass to let out the moisture. The specialist will apply a cleaner on the glass to cleanse it, then apply sealant.
If your windows can't be closed upvc doors and windows or opened it could be due to a damaged mechanism or hinges. It is advisable to lubricate these areas of the window prior to calling a professional as this may resolve the issue and decrease the need for replacements. If your windows are old or don't provide the insulation you require It may be better to replace them.