Double-glazed windows are energy efficient and offer peace of mind throughout the year. However, there are problems that can arise.
If you are having a difficult opening a door it could cause your home to lose valuable heat or cold. This also weakens the security of your home. This is usually a simple fix. Learn more about window locks made of upvc repair.
Stiffness
Lack of lubrication can be the reason behind stiff uPVC window handles or having trouble locking. If you keep your windows and doors opened for long periods of time, dust and grit will build up and wear away the mechanism inside the handle. The handle then begins to stop turning and force you to apply more pressure to open and close your window. This process continues until the lock or handle mechanism eventually fails.
If this happens to you, consider contacting the company you bought from. They typically offer a warranty lasting up to 10 years and will pay for replacing the hardware. You can also fix the issue by lubricating your hinges and locks with silicone spray. This simple fix can be completed in a couple of minutes and can be completed once a year to keep windows in good shape.
This is especially important if you live near a road, as the dust and grit could cause damage to your hinges over time. To do this, first open your window wide. Then use a screwdriver to loosen the screws on the left side of the frame. After that you can move the handle away from the frame. If you feel that the sash is getting a little rough against the frame then loosen the screw on the side that is rubbing to help it down. Repeat this process on the opposite side of the frame. If needed you need to move the handle a bit upwards.
You should now have a gap of about 1 4 inch between the sash and the frame. This will allow your window to close and seal properly, stopping drafts from entering your house and reducing your energy bills. A door or window that is drafty could also compromise the security of your home and put you at greater risk of being a victim of burglary. A double glazed window that won't shut correctly can allow heat to escape, leading to dampness and condensation to your home.
Cracking/Blowing
Double-glazed windows are a fantastic option to reduce energy costs and improve your home security. Like any other piece of equipment, they could be damaged and require repair or replacement. It is essential to employ an expert to complete the job. Checkatrade can help in this regard by connecting you with local tradespeople who have been certified and vetted to ensure that their work is top-quality. It is recommended to hire an accredited professional, since they'll be covered by insurance if any damage occurs during the work.
You can use our search tool to find a FENSA certified double glazing installer in your region. We will then connect you to reliable businesses. If you prefer, you can go to the website of a specific FENSA-approved company and get in touch directly to discuss your needs. You can also learn about the services they provide as well as any special deals they offer to you.
Over time, the window seal could break or become damaged which can lead to air and moisture leakage between the two panes of glass. This can cause cloudy or misty appearance in the middle of the window unit. This is due to the degeneration of the sealant. It can be fixed by replacing the glass unit.
A damaged double pane can cause a lot of trouble for your home, and you'll have to have it repaired in the earliest time possible. This is typically a straightforward task for a double-glazing expert or joiner who has experience. In some cases you may be able to finish the work yourself.
Double Glazed Windows that don't shut properly could create drafts, allow valuable heat to escape and weaken the security of your home. They may also lead to damp or water damage when left unattended. Contact a double-glazing specialist immediately when your uPVC windows are having problems. This will ensure that the issue does not get worse and you will save money in the end.
Condensation
If condensation forms on the outside of your windows it can be a little disconcerting but don't worry, this isn't an indication that your double glazing isn't functioning properly. Instead, this is an everyday occurrence that is actually a good thing since it means that your house is well-ventilated and able to retain heat. This is more frequent early in the morning or at night, as temperatures are lower and there is less air.
When condensation appears between glass panes, this is a serious issue. It could mean that the window seal has failed. This is because the seal no longer holds in the insulating gas between the window panes, which means the moisture is trapped and causes condensation. In this case, you'll have to speak with the company that installed your double glazing because they are likely still under warranty and it is not recommended that you modify these units or attempt to fix them yourself, as it could invalidate your warranty.
This problem can only be fixed by taking the sealed unit off and replacing it with a brand new one. This is a task best handled by a professional as you'll need to ensure that the new sealed units is properly fitted and has no gaps.
It is sometimes difficult to spot gaps in your uPVC windows. In most cases, you'll only notice it when you try to shut the door or window. If you discover that you are able to easily fit a piece of paper into the gap, it could be caused by an unbalanced hinge or a misaligned one and may be an indication that your window is in need of replacement.
double glazing window repairs
Over time, double-glazed windows can become stiff. The handles could also cease to function. They can also develop an accumulation of condensation between the glass panes, which can create a drafty feel within your home. It is tempting to replace the window, but this could be a lengthy and costly process.
It's a good thing to know that you can fix your double-glazed window and restore its function and aesthetic with a few easy steps. To do this, you'll require a few tools.
You'll need a prybar to grip the frame and take it from the sill. After that, you'll need to cut the sealant holding the IGU in place with an utility knife or hacksaw. Depending on the age of your windows they could be held in place by an insulated block (Photos 3 and 4) which is caulked and very difficult to cut. In these cases it's recommended to call in a pro.
After removing the old window, put in the new one by cutting off the gasket before then moving to the next section. Make sure to use silicone sealant, which will create an airtight and watertight seal between the new window and the frames.
Lastly, you'll need to install the new handle, and put on any caps made of plastic that you have on the screws. If you're not comfortable handling broken glass, it's recommended you hire a professional for this phase of the process. This will ensure your safety and reduce the risk of injury when handling broken glass.
Double glazed sealed units are made to last for up to 35 years. However, over time, they may face several problems. These issues could include a loss of energy efficiency, the build-up of condensation between the glass, as well as cracks or chips in the glass. The window seal may have broken or blown. This can be spotted by the appearance of streaks, fogging or condensation between the glass panes. The sealant can be replaced to fix blown windows. This is a cheaper option than buying and installing new double-glazed windows.
