Double Glazing Repairs
If your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or are showing signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. This is usually done without having to replace the whole window unit.
Doing the repair yourself for double glazing will require specialized tools, and should be left to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in double-glazed windows isn't just a nuisance but also indicates that warm air is escaping from your home. It's generally a sign that the seal has been damaged or is beginning to break. If this is the case, it's usually best to have the entire window replaced.
In some instances you might be capable of using a hairdryer (from a safe distance) to remove the moisture between the glass panes. This is a temporary fix but you should seek professional assistance as soon as possible. The longer the problem persists, the more damage to your double glazing and possibly to your health.
If the condensation is only on a small portion of your window frame, you are usually able to eliminate it by wiping it down quickly and regularly. If you notice condensation on a larger area of the window frame it could indicate that the seal is damaged and the windows are not as efficient in thermal efficiency.
It can be caused by a variety of causes, but the most common are excessive humidity or poor ventilation within your home. Humidity can easily create water droplets on cold surfaces and that's why double-glazed windows are more likely to display condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. Install a vent in your bathroom or kitchen if it is especially humid.
If your windows are still in the warranty period you can contact the company that fitted windows to discuss the issue and ask them to rectify it for you - they may be able to simply replace the window or they might need to fit one-way air vents to stop future condensation. This is a far better solution than simply replacing your double-glazed windows entirely because it will save money and time.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows indicate that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. Double-pane windows have two glass panes, with a space between them. This space is filled with energy efficient gases like Krypton or argon. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal is not strong enough, moisture may seep through and create fog. Foggy windows can make your home less effective and less attractive.
While windows can be replaced if they are fogging most homeowners choose to employ an expert for window repair instead. A glass specialist will be able to help determine if the windows are able to be repaired before making recommendations. If they need to be replaced they will be able to supply you with a premium replacement that won't be prone to foggy glass.
Double glazing can also cause issues with the opening or closing of doors or windows. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or changes to the structure of the frame. If you find that your double-glazed is difficult to open, a good first step is to talk to the business you purchased it from. The majority of companies offer warranties on their products that last for a an agreed period of time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees.
If you're unable to solve the issue with your provider It could be time to switch. Always request an official confirmation of your complaint, as well as any agreements reached and the dates. This will allow you to switch providers if necessary.
Foggy windows can be repaired through defogging, a process that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting a cleaning solution and then removing the soiled liquid and drying the inside of the glass. This is a relatively new solution and is worth a second look to determine whether it's suitable for your home before you commit to it. Keep in mind, though that it can't bring back any energy efficiency lost from deteriorated window seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that is double-glazed could appear to be an insignificant problem, but can cause serious damage. It is crucial to fix the crack as soon as you can to avoid further damage. This is especially important when the crack is located in the interior of your glass.
Double-paned windows are composed of two glass panes that are glued together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gases, like argon or krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home doesn't get transferred through the glass. The gas slows the heat transfer, which means that the warm air from your home may travel through the window much more slowly than if there were no obstructions between the panes of the glass.
During installation, it's important that the windows are positioned properly and with a high-quality seal. A qualified glazier should install the windows as they'll be able to seal them tightly to ensure the best insulation. If the seal on the window is not working then the gas in the panes might leak out and reduce their insulation properties, which could lead to cracks between two panes.
A poor installation can also cause double-paned windows to break. double glazing repairs near me expands and contracts at different rates. This could cause stress cracks develop over time, which weakens the glass. If this is the case, it's important to find a professional glazier who will be capable of replacing the damaged glass with a new one that is better suited to your home.
In the event that you spot a crack inside the double-glazed window, it's important to be aware of the fact that it isn't able to be repaired simply by filling in the crack with adhesive. Double-paned windows require a tight seal between the two panes and any cracks will only worsen over time.
It is important to keep in mind that handling broken glass is risky It's therefore always recommended to contact a professional glazier who have the appropriate tools to complete the task. They will also be able to take the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage.
Leaking Seals
A triple-pane or double-pane windows is made up of an insulated glass unit (IGU) with three or two sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is held together with a combination of polyurethane and aluminum spacers which creates an airtight seal between the windows that keeps moisture from entering your home. Over time, however, the seal can fail which allows the draughts and water to penetrate into your living spaces.
Most often this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch slightly in response to changes in temperature and humidity and can put IGUs at risk of failing. If the seal is damaged the insulating fill gas could leak out and leave your windows with an appearance of fog and draughts which can reduce the efficiency of your home.
If the window seal fails, it may cause condensation or water to develop between the panes, that you are unable to wipe away. In certain cases, moisture can leave a permanent mark left on the glass of your window.
Generally, you can fix the problem by having your windows professionally defogged and resealed. This is a process that requires professional equipment to remove water, fill the gap with argon or krypton gas, and reseal without letting the gas escape. The price of this service may vary depending on the type of IGU and your location, but most double glazed windows can be repaired in one hour or two.
In addition to changing your window seals, there are a few other things you can do to improve the efficiency of double-pane windows. Choose energy-efficient coatings and glazing that reflect rather than absorb the sun's radiation. This will keep your rooms cooler and more comfortable, and it's an inexpensive way to improve the look of your windows. Apply caulk around the window frame to close any gaps that allow cold air in and warm air out. In some cases this is a good alternative to replacing the whole window.