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.
A crack in the seal is usually the reason for mist appearing between your glass windows. This needs to be addressed immediately to prevent mould or damp forming in your home.
Condensation Between the Windows
If condensation forms between the windows in your home, it's an indication that the seal that holds the insulating gas between the panes has failed. This is a serious problem that should be addressed immediately particularly in winter, when humidity is at its highest. It could also lead to damage around the sills and sealant, and may cause mould or mildew.
Ideally double-glazed windows should not have condensation between the panes. This is often caused by excessive humidity or a particularly cold snap. Fortunately, this issue is fixable without replacing the entire window. A professional can drill tiny holes into the window and spray special cleaning solution inside. The moisture is then sucked out of the window, and an anti-fogger device may be fitted to prevent further moisture buildup in the future.
Condensation between the windows can also occur due to air leakage or other causes outside the window. In this instance, it may take longer for the condensation in the window to build up because the air must be warm enough to evaporate the water molecules. In these instances it is more beneficial to replace double-glazed windows instead of to try to repair the sealed units.
A double-glazed window is constructed up of three or more pieces of insulated glass held together by a frame made of metal. The space between the windows is filled with an insulating gas like Krypton or argon and then sealed. The seal is responsible for preventing the gas used to insulate from escaping and also preventing air and moisture from getting through the gap.
As the windows age, the seals deteriorate and can let moisture in the gap between the glass panes. When seals fail, it is important to notice this because it signifies that the double glazing no longer performs as efficiently as it did before. This could result in a decrease in efficiency in energy use, higher heating costs, damage to the property, and the risk of condensation forming between windows.
Mist
If you notice condensation on the outside of your windows, it 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 outside air is hotter than the glass, and it reaches the dew point of the window before the air inside. This is one of the major benefits of having good quality double glazing.
If the condensation is located on the side of your window, this can be a sign of a problem with the ventilation in your home. This is because the excess moisture has nowhere to go and is deposited on your window, in carpets, in furniture, and in other areas in your home. It is possible to prevent this by having it checked out by an expert and ensuring that there is sufficient fresh air inside your home.
Another reason for mist to appear on double-glazed windows is because the seal between two glass panes has been broken. This could be due to wear and wear or chemical cleaning solutions that are being used. If this happens it is best to get the windows repaired as soon as possible.
A professional repair of your windows will ensure they remain fog-free free of condensation and free of misting. It's also less expensive than replacing them entirely and will also reduce your energy bills.
A FENSA certified window installer can offer a price for repair or replacement of your double glazed windows. If your existing windows are very old and have been used for a long time you may want to consider changing them to new A-rated energy efficient ones.
It is a good idea to retain copies of any warranties and agreements with the window installers. This can be extremely helpful in the event that any issues with your windows occur in the future, and you can then contact your window fitters to resolve the issues. This is a better option than simply not addressing the issue that only make the problem worse and may lead to other issues in your home.
Close or open with difficulty
It's not just a nuisance when double-glazed windows are difficult to open or close. They can also result in more expensive energy bills due to heat loss and draughts. It could also be security risks, particularly when the locks aren't functioning correctly. You should fix any double-glazed windows and doors as soon as you can.
If you have tried opening your window using the simplest methods, such as using a screwdriver or tapping the frame with a solid object, the issue may be more serious. It could be that the window has moved in its frame and needs to be re-set or it could be that there is an opening between the glass panes and the frames. In either case, consult a double-glazing repair expert to ensure that the repairs are done correctly and to prevent any further problems.
It isn't uncommon for UPVC window handles and lock mechanisms to get stuck or difficult to operate, especially when they are worn and old. This is usually due to the accumulation of grease or dirt in 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 hard object such as an screwdriver, but be careful not to scratch the handle or the window handle mechanism.
If this doesn't solve the problem then the window might 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 situation, 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 shut double glazing window. He has plenty of experience converting old window mechanisms into modern. This could save you money by replacing the entire window. Contact us today for more information or a free estimate.
Warping
Double-glazed windows can be an excellent way to save energy in your home. They consist of two separate panes which have a spacer or dense gas in between them. This creates a seal which keeps cold air out and warm inside. However, over time, these windows may be damaged or broken and require repair. The majority of these repairs can be completed without replacing the entire window.
Warping is a common problem with double-glazed windows. The windows begin to bend or twist, or bow. This can impact the structural upvc door repair integrity and insulation properties of the windows. The best method to avoid this problem is to make sure that your double glazed windows are fitted properly and maintained regularly.
Contact a professional immediately if you realize that your double-glazed windows are warping. This will help keep the issue from getting worse. They will be able inspect your windows to determine the root cause. They will use specific tools to correct the problem and ensure that you windows are fully sealed again.
Water vapour can cause this issue, since it can build up between the windows over time. This can be caused by many elements, such as the weather, humidity levels and temperature fluctuations. To fix this the expert will make a small hole through the window to release the moisture. Then, they will use an agent to clean the glass and then apply a sealant to help keep it dry in the future.
If your windows can't be closed or opened it could be due to a damaged mechanism or hinges. Before calling a professional to address the issue, it's worthwhile to grease these parts. This can usually fix the issue and reduce the need for replacements. However, if your windows are quite old or do not provide the insulation you'd like to have, it is often better to replace them.