Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs may be needed when double-glazed windows become difficult to open or show signs of condensation. In most instances, this can be done without needing to replace the entire window unit.
It is best to delegate the job of installing double glazing to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in your double glazing isn't just a nuisance, it also means that warm air is leaving your home. This is usually the sign of a broken seal or deterioration. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to have the entire window replaced.
It is possible in some instances to use a hairdryer in some instances to remove the moisture between the glass panes (from a distance). This is a good temporary fix, but it's important to remember that you should seek professional help as soon as possible as the longer this issue continues, the more damage it could cause to your double glazing and possibly to your health too.
If the condensation is limited to a small portion of your window frame, it is usually possible to get rid of it by wiping it off regularly and rapidly. If you notice condensation over a larger portion of the frame, it could mean that the seal is damaged and windows aren't as efficient at absorbing heat.
It can be caused by a variety of reasons that can cause condensation, but the most prevalent is excessive humidity or poor ventilation in your home. Humidity can easily form droplets of water on surfaces that are cold and that's why double glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than older single-pane windows. If your kitchen or bathroom are particularly humid, you may require an air vent to reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows are still within the warranty period, you can contact the company that installed them to explain the problem 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 future condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double-glazed windows as you will save time and money.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows indicate that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. Double-pane windows have two glass panes, with a gap in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gases such as argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. However, if the seal fails, water could get in and cause fog. Foggy windows can make your home less effective and less attractive.
Many homeowners choose to hire an expert for window repair rather than replace their windows. A glass expert will be able to help determine if the windows are able to be fixed before making an offer. If they must be replaced they'll be able to provide you with a top-quality replacement that won't be prone to foggy glass.
Another issue that double glazing that people face is that the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or a change 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 company you purchased it from. Many companies offer guarantees on their products that last for a the specified time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the problem with your provider It could be time to switch. You should always ask for written confirmation that your complaint has been received and any agreements signed to fix it and when these dates will be. This will allow you to switch providers should you need to.
Defogging is a technique that can be used to fix foggy windows. It involves drilling holes in the glass, introducing an cleaning solution, then removing any liquid that has been soiled and drying the interior. This is a relatively new technique, and it's worth considering whether it's appropriate for your home before committing to it. It can't however it will restore the energy efficiency that's been lost due to deteriorated seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed glass may seem like a minor issue but it can cause a lot of damage. It is crucial to fix the crack as quickly as you can to avoid further damage. This is especially important when the crack is located on the inside of your glass.
Double-pane windows comprise two glass panes assembled together with a gap in between that is filled with an inert gas, such as argon or krypton. This is to ensure that the heat from your home doesn't get transferred through the glass. The gas also slows the transfer of heat, so that the warm air in your home can move slowly through the window than in the absence of any space between the two glass panes.
It is essential that windows are fitted correctly and sealed properly. The windows should be fitted by a glazier who is qualified, who can fit the glass panes with a tight seal to ensure they are well-insulated and as efficient as they can be. If the seal on the window has failed and gas is trapped inside the panes might leak out and diminish their insulation properties, which could lead to cracking between two panes.
Incorrect installation can cause double-paned windows to crack. The glass expands and contracts at different rates. This can cause stress cracks that appear over time and weaken the glass. If this is the case, it's important to find a good glazier who will be capable of replacing the damaged pane of glass with an alternative that is better suited to your home.
If you discover a crack in your double-glazed window crucial to be aware of the fact that it cannot be fixed by filling in the crack with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal between the two glass panes, and any cracks could get worse in time, leading eventually to total breakage.
It is important to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to consult an expert with the right equipment to complete the task. double glazing repairers 'll also know how to take off the old sealant, without causing damage to the glass.
Seals that leak
A double or triple-pane window comprises an insulated glass unit (IGU) with three or two sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is secured by a combination of aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents moisture from entering your home. As time passes, the seal can fail, allowing water and draughts to get into your living spaces.
Usually it is due to the natural expansion and contraction of the components used to construct your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch slightly with changes in humidity and temperature, putting IGUs at risk of failure. When the seal breaks, the insulating fill-gas can leak and leave your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts which reduce the efficiency in your home.
If a window seal fails it could also result in condensation or water between the panes that are difficult to wipe away. In certain cases, moisture can leave a permanent stain on the window glass.
Typically, you can correct the issue by having your windows professionally cleaned and sealed. This process requires specialized equipment that removes moisture, fills the void with Krypton or argon gas, and then seals the window without letting gas escape. The price of this service may differ based on the type of IGU you have and the location, but most double-glazed windows can be repaired within one or two hours.
In addition to changing your window seals, there are a few other ways to increase the efficiency of double-pane windows. Choose energy-efficient coatings and glazing that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's rays. This will keep your rooms cooler and more comfortable as well as enhance the appearance of your windows. Lastly, use caulk or weatherstripping on the frame of your window to prevent gaps that could let cold air into your home and warm air out. In some instances, this is a better alternative to replacing the whole window.