Double Glazing Repair

Double glazing is a popular choice for glazed homeowners since it reduces energy consumption and increases security levels. Sometimes, however, issues can arise that need to be addressed as soon as possible.

Although it is possible to carry out some repairs to double glazing yourself, certain tools are required and it's usually best left to an expert. This will ensure that the work is done properly and you'll get a new warranty.

Misting

This is a common problem with double-glazed windows. It's not just visually unattractive, but it can also affect your view and energy efficiency of your house. If your windows appear to be misty, it means that the seals between the glass panes fail to function properly and moisture may get inside.

The condensation will result in the moisture which causes the glass to appear fuzzy. It can also damage your window's insulation capabilities as cold air will leak into the window and warm air will escape, leading to more costly bills.

The most common cause is when the seals in your uPVC window fail and allow moisture to get in. This can happen for many reasons, including a wrongly fitted window or window that is flexing or simply age. The good news is that a majority of quality double glazing comes with a warranty against this so if you have recently had them fitted then it is likely that you'll be able to get them replaced or repaired.

You can stop this issue from occurring by ensuring you have ample ventilation in your home, particularly during winter, to prevent the build-up of humidity. A hairdryer can be utilized to speedily and efficiently defrost double glazing. Be careful not to melt the gaskets or seals by heating them.

It is also crucial to ensure that your windows aren't smothered in dust or dirt which can accumulate and block vents. If you often use the kitchen or bathroom, it is important to keep them open to ensure that steam can escape, this will prevent it from forming on the windows surface. Avoid hanging towels in the shower or pans over radiators. They can all lead to condensation.

It is possible to fix your double glazing repairs glazing if it has become cloudy. The method you use will depend on the company you choose. One approach is to drill the sealed unit a tiny hole and pumping or injecting a desiccant. This will absorb the moisture. The company can then install vents in the holes to allow airflow, reducing the likelihood of future condensation.

Condensation

Condensation between glass panes is the most obvious sign of double glazing repair in-glazed windows that require to be fixed. It is evident as drops of fog or water within the gap between the two panes and is not only unsightly, but impacts on the effectiveness of your double glazed windows too. One of the primary advantages of modern double glazing is that it stops the heat from entering your home, and instead is able to insulate by trapping air into the space between the two layers of glass. The space between the window panes must be airtight, and only contain an insulating gas, like Argon. If you see water in this gap, your window seal may be not working properly.

When it rains, or if the weather is damp, such as during a morning dew or heavy rain, condensation could develop on the outside of windows. This should only last an hour or so and is easily cleaned with sponge or a towel. If your condensation is in the middle of the double-glazed window, it could be more serious and it is likely that the window has broken its seal.

This could be due to aging or a defect in the seal itself, which is typically caused by a temperature change since this causes water to build up on the inside and outer surface of your window. It can also happen when the frame of your window shifts slightly or the particular packaging that protects the glass sheets becomes compacted which causes the seal to break.

It is crucial to seek advice from a professional when your double-glazed windows are misted. There are DIY kits for windows that are misted that can be purchased but these are not always the best option and usually require drilling directly into the glass. A reliable double glazing repair business will be able to advise you and give you a quote for the work that needs to be done.

A reputable double-glazing repair expert will remove the affected pane of glass from the frame, prior to piped hot air into the gap to dry it out, then a replacement seal is put in place. They will also provide advice on how to prevent condensation in the future, such as installing trickle ventilation in your windows and doorways which allows fresh air to circulate in without letting warm air escape. This will prevent condensation from forming on cold surfaces.

Gasket Seals

The gasket seal is an essential component of any weatherproof windows or door, offering an essential barrier between the opening sash and the outer frame when it is compressed. This stops water and draughts ingress, which can be extremely unpleasant and even damaging. Gasket seals are used to seal double-glazed windows and patio doors. Gasket seals can shrink or perish in time, and if this occurs it is recommended to have them replaced quickly to avoid any long-term damage.

One of the most common indicators of a faulty window seal is that it starts to fog. Foggy windows can be difficult to clean as the moisture trapped between the multi-panes of glass won't easily disperse. Failing seals may also cause stains and condensation, especially on the exterior of the window. If you spot any of these issues it's a good idea contact a professional double glazing repair service to carry out an extensive inspection.

There are a variety of ways in which window seals can be repaired, but there is a compromise between cost and efficiency when making a decision. While it is more expensive to have your window seals professionally repaired however, they are more likely to last longer and provide better performance. A uPVC specialist can assist you to pick the right seal for your home.

Some people opt to leave a damaged window seal intact, but this is not recommended. It could lead to an increase in your energy bills and cause windows to fog up more. In addition, the damage to the seal will get worse on its own, so it is better to get it repaired when you can.

There are a few actions you can take to ensure that your window seals aren't damaged from breaking. For instance, it's a good idea to try to avoid the use of power washers on your doors or windows as this can place the seals under pressure. It's also advisable to get your windows and doors installed by a professional so they're installed correctly. This reduces the likelihood of issues such as poor installation or warping of the frames that could increase the strain on window seals.

Frames

Double glazing is known for its strength and durability but, like anything, it can develop problems as time passes. Thankfully, a majority of these issues are easily repairable, saving you the expense of replacing the whole window. Double glazing repair can resolve common problems such as condensation, misting, or frames that are not as strong or easy to open.

Whatever type of window you have, PVCu windows aluminum windows, wood or PVCu ones, they all can benefit from a targeted maintenance. This will help to keep moisture out of the window, which can cause decay. Repairs can be expensive. Regular inspections and cleaning can help keep water out of crucial joints, especially the lower jambs and cills, where deterioration most often occurs.

A quick wipe with a damp cloth can reduce condensation between glass panes. It is also helpful to leave an open vent in the room or make use of a dehumidifier. These measures can help improve the air quality of a home and help avoid the need to replace expensive double glazing.

The type of frame you choose will also influence the repair costs of double glazing because different materials require different methods to deal with condensation. For instance, a wood window will be easier to repair than an aluminium or PVCu one since it can be treated with wood preservatives, while metal requires a more thorough method using specialized paints and fillers.

If your double glazed doors or windows are getting difficult to open, this could be due to varying temperatures, which cause the frame to expand and contract, leading to stiffness. If this is the case, consider trying to cool the frames or oiling them (particularly when they are sash windows) to help. However, if the issue is persistent and your double glazing appears to have lost its energy efficiency, it might be worth considering replacement instead.