Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows become difficult to open, or exhibit signs of condensation, it could be time for repairs. In many cases it is possible to fix the issue without having to replace the entire window unit.
It is best to delegate the job of installing double glazing to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation of double glazing is not only annoying but also indicates that warm air is escaping from your home. This is usually the indication of a damaged seal or the deterioration of. If this is the case, it's usually best to have the entire window replaced.
You might be able in some instances to use a hairdryer to evaporate the water between the glass panes (from some distance). This is a quick fix, but it's important to remember that you should seek help from a professional whenever you can, as the longer the problem persists and the longer it lasts, the more damage it will cause to the double glazing, and possibly to your health too.
If the condensation is restricted to a small area of your window frame it is usually possible to eliminate it by wiping it away regularly and rapidly. If you see condensation on a larger area of the frame of your window, it could mean that the seal has been damaged and the windows are not as efficient in thermal efficiency.
Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of causes however, it's usually due to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation in the house. Double-glazed windows will show more condensation than single pane windows because humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces. If your kitchen or bathroom are particularly humid, you may require a vent to lower the humidity levels.
If your windows remain in the warranty period you can contact the company who installed them to describe the issue and ask them to rectify it for you. They might be able to replace the window or they might need to fit one-way air vents in order to stop any further condensation. repairing double glazing is a much better solution than simply replacing your double-glazed windows altogether as it will save you time and money.
Foggy Glass
Windows that are smoky can be an indication of a failing seal in double-pane windows. Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes, with a space between them, and this space is filled with energy-efficient gases like argon or krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal fails, moisture may seep through and create fog. Foggy windows can make your home less efficient and look unattractive.
While you can replace your windows if they are fogging some homeowners prefer hiring a professional for window repair instead. Before making an offer an expert in glass will help determine if your windows can be repaired. If they must be replaced, a glass expert can offer top-quality replacements that aren't prone to fogging.
Double glazing can also cause issues in the opening and closing of doors or windows. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or changes to the structure of the frame. You should contact the company that sold you the double glazing if you discover it difficult to open. The majority of companies have warranties that protect their products for a certain period of time, and some even offer lifetime guarantees.
If you are unable to resolve the issue with your supplier it could be the right time to switch providers. Always request an official confirmation of your complaint, along with any agreements that were made, and the dates. If you need to switch providers, this will make it easier.
Defogging is one method that can be used to fix foggy windows. This involves drilling holes in the glass, introducing a cleaning solution, removing any soiled liquid and drying the interior. Before you decide to go with this method it is important to determine whether it is right for your home. It can't however bring back the energy efficiency that's been lost due deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed window might seem like a minor issue, but it can actually cause a lot of damage. It's important to have the crack repaired as soon as you can to avoid further damage particularly if it's on inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows are composed of two glass panes which are joined together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gasses, such as argon and Krypton. This is done to prevent heat from your house from transferring through the glass. The gas also slows the transfer of heat so that the warm air inside your home can move more slowly through the window than it would if there was nothing between the two glass panes.
During installation, it's important that the windows are installed properly and with a top-quality seal. A licensed glazier should be able to install the windows, since they will be able seal them tightly to ensure maximum insulation. If the seal on the window is not working, the gas inside the panes might leak out and decrease their insulation properties, which could lead to cracking between two panes.
Another common reason for cracked double-pane windows is poor installation, which can cause the glass to expand and contracting at different rates. This can lead to stress cracks that appear over time and weaken the glass. If this happens, find a glazier that can replace the broken glass with one more suitable for your home.
If you discover a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows it is crucial to understand that the crack is not repaired by filling it with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows depend on an air-tight seal that is created between the two glass panes, and any cracks can worsen in time, leading eventually to complete breakage.
It is important to remember that broken glass can be dangerous. Therefore, it is best to call an expert who has the right tools to complete the task. They will also know how to take off the old sealant, without causing damage to the glass.
Leaking Seals
A double or triple-pane window comprises an insulated glass unit (IGU) comprising two or three parallel sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is held together by an amalgamation of polyurethane and aluminum spacers that creates an airtight seal between the windows that keeps moisture from entering your home. Over time, however, the seal can fail which allows water and draughts to get into your living spaces.
This is usually due to the natural expansion or contraction of materials that were used to make your window. The sealant, whether polyurethane or silicone, will expand and contract slightly in response to changes in humidity and temperature, putting the IGU at the risk of deteriorating. When the seal breaks down, the insulative fill-gas can escape and your windows will be left with a cloudy appearance and draughts that decrease the efficiency of your house.
If a window seal is damaged it could also cause condensation or water between the panes that you can't wipe away. In certain cases, moisture can leave a permanent stain behind on your window glass.
In general, you can resolve this issue by having your window professionally cleaned. This process requires professional equipment that removes moisture, fills the void with the gas argon or krypton and then reseals the window, preventing gas escape. The cost will vary based on your location and type of IGU, however most double-glazed windows repair can be completed in an hour or less.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of double-paned windows by doing several things, in addition to replacing the window seals. The first is to select high-efficiency glazing and coatings that will reflect the sun's rays rather than absorb them. This will help keep your home cooler and more comfortable. It's also an affordable way to improve the look of your windows. Use caulk around the window frame to close any gaps that let cold air in and warm air out. In some cases, this is a better alternative than replacing the entire window.