Double Glazed Windows Repairs It could be that the double-glazed windows you have are difficult to open or have mist between the panes. If this is the case, it might be worthwhile to arrange for them to be fixed. This is a far more cost-effective solution than replacing windows. This type of repair requires very specific tools which is why it's advisable to leave it to an expert. Seals that have been damaged The seals on windows can wear down in time which allows argon gas and Krypton to escape between the panes of double or triple-paned windows. A broken seal allows air from outside to enter and the argon gas that insulates your home to escape. Both are harmful to energy efficiency. Window seals are susceptible to damage due to extremes in temperature, humidity and pressure. These changes can make your window glass expand and shrink. This can put pressure on the seals. This can also happen if you have pets or children that accidentally hit your windows. If the seal on your window is damaged, it is advised to get the problem looked at by a professional as quickly as you can. If you wait too much then the argon gas, or krypton could escape completely and decrease the insulation properties of your windows. Another common sign that the seal is failing is seeing fogging in between your window frames. It is possible to defog your windows however it is better to get a professional out and reseal the window. If you are having your windows resealed by a technician, they will remove the old seal, wash the panes and replace the new seal. The technician will remove the sash, if necessary then reassemble it and replace the IGU (insulated unit) if necessary. Then, they will insert argon or krypton in the space between the panes, and seal around the IGU to ensure a watertight fit. There are kits available that claim to help homeowners with this process. These kits have received mixed reviews, but we suggest that you delegate this task to professionals. Condensation Condensation is a concern with double glazing. This is especially true in older properties. It occurs when the air inside a home has a higher dewpoint and is warmer than the glass, leading to moisture to form. This is likely to occur during the late in the night or early in morning, as the temperatures are typically at their the lowest. Condensation in double-glazed windows is able to be fixed easily, and it is not required to replace the entire window or door. The'spacer bar' that is located between the two panes of glass in the majority of double glazing is filled with desiccant which is extremely absorbent and sucks up any moisture that comes into the void of air. If this spacer bar becomes filled with moisture, it may be leaking into the frame of the window where condensation can form. It is important to remember that many double-glazed windows are still covered by a warranty. This means that you can contact the company who installed them. They will investigate the problem and replace any units or seals that have become damaged. However, do not attempt to tamper with the units since this could end your warranty. Checkatrade offers a variety of reputable tradespeople to choose from for repairs to double glazing. All of our traders have been checked and vetted to ensure you receive an expert service at an affordable cost. It is possible to fix the issue by lubricating hinges or handles of your double-glazed doors and windows. You can also try wiping the frames with a moist cloth to see if this helps. Extreme weather conditions can make them expand or shrink, making them difficult to open. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/misted-double-glazing-repairs-sutton-coldfield/ between your frame and the wall could allow draughts in your home. This could be cold and can increase your energy bills. Draught proofing helps with this by closing the gaps and increasing insulation. It is worth getting quotes from several companies for this job as they will vary, however an honest company should stand behind their work. Misted double glazing can be difficult to see through and can be a sign that there's an issue with the seal. It can be fixed with an expert in window repair who uses a high-powered defogger to clear the glass and make the new seal. Draughts that are cold near your windows could indicate that the sealed units are no longer effective which could increase heating costs. Window repair services will reseal double-glazed units to eliminate drafts, and also improve insulation. If you are having difficulties opening or closing windows It could be due to the hinges or mechanisms are stiff and need to be oiled. It's a simple fix. You should verify the warranty of the company who installed your double glazing. Over time, uPVC frames may get discolored. This could be due to the sun, cleaning products or the weather. If you notice dark streaks, or areas that do not appear clean, it's time to replace them. Some companies offer a replacement service while others replace the entire frame, handle or locking mechanism. It's always best to contact the company who provided you with windows in the first place. They can give you advice about the most cost-effective solution for your home. They might even be able to match your existing frames, meaning you don't need to replace everything. Smudging This is the first sign that double glazing is experiencing problems, and is simple to fix. It happens when condensation from the inside of the window becomes trapped between the two panes, and appears as droplets or smudges of water on the outside of your windows. Leaving this untreated could result in mould or damage to the material of your frames and sills, not to mention that the inhalation of mold spores for prolonged periods can cause health problems. The best double glazing repair firms will be able to determine the root of the problem and offer a cost-effective remedy. They'll be able replace the gaskets for windows that hold air between the two glass units and lets drafts out, providing you with a more comfortable home while reducing your energy bills. If you want to attempt the repair yourself an ideal starting point is using a rag along with some dish soap to clean the window's surface. Then, you'll need mix two-part epoxy on cardboard or a disposable plate and use it to fix any cracks. This is a temporary repair so it's essential to select the appropriate product for your requirements. If you're thinking about replacing your double-glazed windows, look for a company that provides an assurance on their products. You'll be able to rest in assurance knowing that you are working with a reputable, reputable company that will provide you with top-quality products and services. Also, check out customer reviews before making a decision. This will help you to determine if the company is the right fit to your needs. Mist Condensation on the outside of your double-glazed windows is nothing to be concerned about, since it's an indication that your windows are operating correctly keeping damp and moisture from your home. The presence of mist in your windows is a much more serious problem and indicates that one or more seals have been damaged. The gap between the two glass panes in a double glazed window should be sealed using argon gas to make the whole unit air tight and water resistant. If the glass appears to be misting, it could be because the argon gas is damaged, or a seal was broken. This could be an indication of a poor install, since the window may have been damaged in the process or the sealant could be worn out over the course of time. Many companies claim that they can repair double-glazed windows with fog by drilling holes into the glass and pumping chemicals through them that remove the water vapour and fog from inside. While this is a feasible solution for most people however, it's important to realize that there are limitations on the repair options available. There are times when a replacement of the window unit is the more appropriate option, particularly when there has been significant damage. If the window unit has been damaged or is no longer functional due to rot, it might require replacement. In these situations, a consultation with a professional is recommended to determine the most efficient option.