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How to Repair Double Glazed Windows Many homes with double-glazing encounter problems like condensation, a reduction in the insulation quality and windows that are difficult to open. These issues are usually the result of a defect in the hinges, mechanisms or handles. You can repair these windows with a few easy steps. Cracked Panes If a double-pane window is damaged, it's an urgent issue that must be addressed immediately. Triple- and double-pane windows are insulated using gases that keep warm air in the winter and cold air out. Therefore, when one of the panes cracks, that gas escapes and your home is less insulated. Cracks can also get worse over time, so fixing them now can prevent a larger issue in the future. If a crack develops, the most important thing is to identify what caused it. The most frequent cause is a structural issue that could cause crack, but it's also possible that there was an impact of some sort. In this situation it's crucial to examine your windows for damage and determine the next steps to take to fix the issue. It is also a good idea to inspect the surrounding area of your home for any other issues which could be contributing to the crack. If your windows are situated near other doors or walls, the stress caused by temperatures can be causing cracking. There are several ways to repair a crack depending on the cause. For example, if it was caused by an impact, you may be able to do away by replacing only the damaged glass. Or, you may need to replace the entire frame of your window. This is a more difficult solution that requires expert assistance. If you've got cracks in the glass that did not cause the frame to move, then it is usually easy to apply adhesive between the broken panes. This will fix the crack and stop further damage to your window. Covering the crack with clear tape is a different option. It's not the prettiest solution, but it will stop drafts and bugs getting into your home. Glass repair film is an upgrade that can be applied quickly and provides a solid level of protection. Many double glazing companies provide this kind of product, and it's worth the cost to protect your windows. Condensation Build-Up Double glazing windows that need to be repaired are usually due to condensation between the panes. This is because it typically indicates that the seal between the two panes of glass has been breached, allowing water vapour to pass through. This can lead to condensation and other issues that may need the window replaced. Double glazing is superior in lessening condensation than single pane windows as it features a space between the glass that is either filled with air or gas that is non-toxic. The space between the glass and window frame is separated by a spacer, which acts as an insulator. This helps to prevent heat loss. In many cases, the spacer bar contains silica gel that is effective in preventing moisture from entering between the glass panes. It is therefore important to regularly wipe down and clean your windows. This will reduce the amount of moisture that builds up and allow it to evaporate. Opening upvc repairs to create more air flow can aid in removing excess moisture. Installing a dehumidifier can be another option to prevent condensation. They are available for between PS60 and PS150. They are a great investment that not only stops mold growth, but also reduces condensation. Condensation can happen between the glass panes in your double glazing as the outside air is cooler than the interior pane. This causes the surface of the glass to cool, which results in condensation. It can also occur when you experience an increase in temperature, for instance, turning on the heating or cooling your home. In reality, condensation may be an indication of poor double glazing construction as some of the older units are made with rubber strips instead of the more modern silicone type, which can deteriorate over time. In some instances it's possible to have your seals repaired, although it is worth noting that this will only offer the short-term solution as the window will eventually fail in a different area, which means you'll need to replace it anyway. Stained Glass It is possible to repair a double-glazed window handle or locking mechanism instead of replacing the entire pane of glass. This is not a simple DIY task, as you will need special tools to ensure that the repair is done properly. The most common complaint from owners of double glazing is that their windows or doors are becoming difficult to open and close. This is typically caused by a slight warping of the frame or hinges, but could also be due to issues with the sealing. In some cases the issue may be more severe than this and it is advisable to talk to a professional regarding the options available. Another issue that is frequently reported is the forming of condensation between the glass panes. This could be a sign that the seal is failing and no longer holding in the gas that is insulating between the panes. This is an easy fix. The gas that is insulating can be repaired by using special glue to fill the gap. Start by placing the faulty window on a flat work surface. Peel back the black sealant with care to reveal the silver spacer bars. Cut them into pieces using a sharp knife, staying just below the bottom of both the glass and the silver spacer bars. Cut until you can separate the two pieces and once you have done this, put the top layer of glass onto your work surface (it is best to wear gloves here). Clean the glazed side that faces the frame and the spacer frame. Make sure to get rid of any smears or marks, as they could affect the sealing of the window when it is rebuilt. Lastly, position the new spacer bar on the glass pane, and spread adhesive on its edges to help it bond to the glass and the silver spacer frame. Let the adhesive dry before assembling. This is usually a job for two since it can be tricky to align everything. Gasket Seals Double glazing is designed to last for many years, but there are still some issues that can occur. It is essential to fix any faults as soon as they occur, whether it's draughts or issues with opening and closing. One of the most common problems reported by double glazed owners is condensation that forms between the two glass panes. This is caused by the failure of the desiccant, which absorbs moisture in the air within the insulated gap. After the desiccant has failed the condensation can form within minutes and create an ugly line across the windows. Another issue can arise when the gasket seal does not prevent water and other pollutants from leaking into the insulated gap. This can cause leaks around the edges of the frame, and could also cause damage to the surface of the double-glazed unit itself. Contact your installer immediately if you spot any signs that your double-glazed units are leaky. A lot of companies offer a warranty for their products. These warranties typically include a guarantee that is 10 or 20 years. Some companies offer lifetime guarantees. Examine the specifics of your warranty to see what's covered and how long it lasts. You may want to test and resolve any hardware problems yourself before making contact with a double glazing company. You can, for example try cooling or lubricating the mechanism to determine if that fixes the problem. Alternatively, you can try removing the handle or window handle and then cleaning it before placing it back in the correct position. Contact your local council to see whether they have any grants to help you pay for the replacement or repair of your double-glazed windows. There are numerous methods to apply and certain areas will require a particular form of application or evidence of eligibility, so it is always advisable to check with your local authority prior to deciding on how to proceed.