Double Glazing Window Repairs Double glazing windows are a significant investment and you need to ensure that they look and functioning as well as possible. If it's condensation or windows that are becoming difficult to operate the problem is typically fixable. In fact, it is often cheaper to fix your double-glazed windows than replacing them completely. Broken or cracked Panes Double-paned windows are stronger than single-paned ones, however they are still susceptible to breaking. A pebble from the lawnmower hitting the window or a heavy beverage spilled on a glass-topped table or a pet tripping over a vase that you love can all result in broken or cracked panes. If this occurs, you'll want to get it fixed as soon as you can, as cracks will only get worse over time. It's a breeze to replace a damaged double-pane windows. This is a job that should be handled by professionals who have the proper tools to safely remove and replace the old window. Without the right equipment, trying to do this yourself could lead to serious injury. After getting rid of the broken glass clean any splintered pieces glass and remove any remaining putty from the frame. After you've soaked the old putty with linseed, you can remove the old putty from the frame. You'll then need to measure the width and height of the window frame that is empty and then purchase a replacement that's cut in accordance with those measurements. It's also an excellent idea to buy replacement glazier's clips and points to aid in securing the glass in place. If your double-glazed windows are old, it may be better to purchase newer, energy efficient double glazing rather than to try and repair them. This will eliminate the stress of having to deal with broken or cracked panes and will give you more control over your home's energy costs. Plus, old double glazing is less effective at keeping heat inside the winter months and out in summer. Replacing it can make your home more comfortable. Water Leaks If water is oozing out from the window frame during rainy weather it could indicate that the double glazing seal has failed. This could be due to normal wear and tear, however most often it's a sign the windows were not properly installed. The window flashing could have been placed incorrectly, and the house wrap may not have been completely removed. This can let cold air infiltrate the home and cause moisture damage to other areas of the building. The problem becomes worse when moisture escapes and causes black mold. This can lead to health issues for your family. Leaking Windows are a significant problem, and they should be fixed as quickly as is possible. Doing this delay will increase the severity of the issue and result in expensive repairs later on. Fortunately, a lot of these leaks can be prevented by regular maintenance. It is recommended to check the frames of your windows regularly for gaps and cracks. Caulking can be used to fill any gaps or cracks. This process is relatively simple and can be carried out on a dry day however, you must remove any oil or grease from the area prior to applying the caulking. It is also recommended to employ a caulking tool to simplify the process. After the caulking is applied, it should be allowed to dry overnight before the window is opened. If the leaks are found to be more extensive then a complete replacement of the frame may be required. This is a more costly option however it will give the greatest results in terms of long-term efficiency and protection from the elements. Condensation Condensation occurs when water vapour in the air becomes liquid again when it comes in contact with an icy surface. If your windows exhibit signs of condensation, it's likely that the sealant between the panes was not able to hold it. This can cause damp or mould in your home. Modern double glazing is equipped with a'spacer bar" between the two glass panes. This is filled with silica gel which'sucks up' any moisture in the air gap between the two glass panes. If the seal fails, the silica gel can be saturated and not be able to prevent condensation from forming. As humidity levels rise in your home the silica gel can "fog" the window. This can be a challenge to remove. Although there are some quick fixes that can help get rid of your double glazing, it's generally recommended to speak with an expert. This will ensure that the cause of the condensation is identified and repaired. They can advise you how to tackle the problem in the future. This means opening your windows and keeping your trickle-vents open. Misted double-glazing can be a major pain and can be an indication that the unit has 'blown'. This means that the seal has broken and warm air (which you're paying for!) is escaping your home. It is possible to fix the double-glazed window that has blown, but this is a time-consuming and costly process. Lock Issues The locks on your double glazed windows and doors are an important security feature. You may notice that they're becoming stiff or difficult to open. This is a common problem, and can be caused by heat buildup or a locked mechanism that is stuck. It's best to contact your window manufacturer for advice on this immediately. There are many different lock systems that can be set up on uPVC Windows. Maco window lock, Saracen and Mila window locks are some of the most well-known. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/nottingham-glazier-and-glazing-near-me/ of these locks utilize bayonet style rods to operate locking cams shaped like mushrooms that are then locked into the window frame keeps. The handle then protrudes into the lock's spindle housing which is then used to operate the gearbox and drive gear to open and close the window. If you're having trouble opening your uPVC window the first thing you should make sure is that the hinges are intact and not damaged or loose. You can also put a credit card in between the sash frame and determine if they are able to move freely. If the window doesn't move it is recommended to seek out a professional glazier. This could indicate an unsound hinge or a broken lock. It is crucial not to push your locks on your windows or doors because this could cause damage and lead to further costly repairs. It is crucial to regularly test your windows and doors to ensure they're functioning properly. A professional can conduct a yearly window health test to identify problems before they get worse. This will save you money and allow you to adopt cost-saving measures. Wear and tear signs Double glazing is a great way to improve the insulation in your home, but even windows that are energy efficient have a limited life span. It is essential to act immediately if you detect signs that your windows are failing. If you don't take action, you could be liable for costly repair costs or even lose the energy efficiency of your home. Condensation of the glass panes is one of the most commonly-cited signs that your double-glazed windows require repair. This is a sign that the seals on your windows are beginning to fail, which can lead to a reduction in energy efficiency as well as higher heating bills. If you don't take care to fix this problem immediately, it will only get worse over time, so make sure you call an expert company for window repairs for double glazing immediately. Another indication that double-glazed windows require repair is when the glass becomes cloudy or foggy. This is an indication of damage to the IGU (insulated unit). It could be caused by a variety of things, such as rapid temperature fluctuations and collisions or damage. This can be triggered by moisture intrusion which is the reason it's crucial to have any damage repaired as quickly as possible. Finally, if you're noticing a lot of draughts in your home, it's definitely a sign that your double-glazed windows need repairing. A broken seal allows cold air to get into your home, which can increase your cooling and heating costs significantly. Calling your local FENSA approved double glazing repair expert can solve the problem within a matter of minutes. This is a great idea in the winter when contractors are less busy and can offer a discount.