Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs may be needed if your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or exhibit signs of condensation. In most cases this can be accomplished without having to replace the entire window unit.
It is best to delegate the installation of double glazing to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in double glazing is not only annoying, but it also means warm air is leaving your home. This is usually the indication of a damaged seal or the deterioration of. It is best to replace the entire window if that's the case.
In some cases, you may be in a position to use a hair dryer (from a safe distance) to remove the moisture from between the glass panes. This is a temporary solution but you should seek professional assistance as soon as you can. The longer the problem persists, the greater the damage to your double-glazed windows, and possibly to your health.
If the condensation is only in a small area of your window frame, you will usually be able to get rid of it by wiping it off quickly and frequently. However, if you see condensation in larger areas of the window, this could mean that the seal has been damaged and windows are less efficient in terms of thermal efficiency than they ought to be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of factors, but it's typically down to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation in the house. Humidity can easily create water droplets on cold surfaces and that's why double-glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. If your bathroom or kitchen are particularly humid, you may need to install an air vent to reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows remain in the warranty period you can contact the company that fitted them to describe the issue and ask them to rectify it for you - they could be able to replace the unit, or they may need to install one-way air vents in order to prevent future condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double-glazed windows, as you will save time and money.
Foggy Glass
Windows that are smoky can be a sign of a failed seal in double-pane windows. Double-pane windows have two panes of glass with a space in between. The space is filled with energy efficient gasses like argon or Krypton. 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 result in fog. Foggy windows can make your home less effective and less attractive.
Many homeowners prefer hiring an expert for window repair instead of replacing their windows. A glass expert can help determine if the windows can be fixed prior to making a recommendation. If they require replacement they'll be able to provide you with a premium replacement that isn't prone to foggy glass.
Double glazing can also cause issues in the opening and closing of doors or windows. This could be due to extreme weather or an alteration in the structure of the frame itself. 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. Most companies offer warranties on their products that last for a set period of time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the problem with your current provider it could be time to switch. Always ask for written confirmation that your complaint has been acknowledged and any agreements signed to address the issue and when these dates are. This will make it easier to switch providers should you need to.
Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed by defogging, a procedure that involves drilling holes in the window, infusing cleaning solution to remove the soiled liquid and drying the interior of the glass. Before committing to this solution it is important to determine whether it is right for your home. It can't however it will restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed window might seem like a minor problem but it can cause a lot of damage. It is essential to fix the crack as soon as possible to avoid further damage. This is particularly true in the case of cracks in the interior of the glass.
Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes that are connected with a space between that is filled with an inert gas, such as argon or krypton. This is to prevent heat from your house from transferring through the glass. The gas also slows the transfer of heat so that the warm air in your home can move more slowly through the window than it would when there was nothing between the two glass panes.
It is essential that windows are fitted correctly and have a solid seal. The windows should be installed by a licensed glazier who can fit the panes of glass with a seal that is tight to ensure they are well-insulated and as efficient as they can be. If the window seal is not working, it could cause the gas inside the panes to leak which reduces their insulation and causing cracks between the two glass panes.
Another reason that causes cracks in 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 can develop over time and weaken the glass. If this is the case, it's crucial to find a Glazier who can be able to replace the cracked pane of glass with an alternative that is more appropriate for your home.
If you find a small crack in your double-glazed windows it is important to know that the crack is not repaired by simply filling it with adhesive. Double-paned windows rely on a tight seal between the two panes and cracks are likely to get worse over time.
repairing double glazing windows to keep in mind that handling broken glass can be hazardous, so it's always best to call in a professional glazier who will have the appropriate tools for the job. They will also know how to get rid of the old sealant without causing damage to the glass.
Seals that leak
A triple-pane or double-pane window consists of an insulated glass unit (IGU) comprising two or three parallel sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is fixed by a combination aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal, which prevents moisture from entering your home. As time passes, the seal can fail and allow water and draughts to get into your living spaces.
This is typically caused by the natural expansion or contraction of materials that were used to make your window. The sealant, whether polyurethane or silicone, may expand and contract slightly in response to changes in humidity and temperature which puts the IGU at the risk of deteriorating. If the seal fails the insulating fill gas can leak, leaving your windows with an appearance of fog and draughts that reduce the efficiency in your home.
If the window seal fails, it could also cause condensation or water to develop between the panes, which you cannot wipe away. In some instances, the moisture may form an indestructible stain on your window glass.
Typically, you can correct the issue by having your windows professionally cleaned and sealed. This procedure requires professional equipment to remove moisture, refill the gap with argon or Krypton gas, then reseal without letting the gas escape again. The cost of this service can vary depending on the type of IGU and your location, but the majority of double glazed windows can be repaired in an hour or two.
In addition to replacing your window seals There are a few other things you can do to increase the energy efficiency of double-pane windows. Choose energy-efficient coatings and glazing that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's radiation. This will keep your rooms cooler and more comfortable, as well as improve the appearance of your windows. Also, you can use caulk or weatherstripping around the frame of your window to prevent gaps that may allow cold air into your home and warm air to escape. This is a cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.