Double Glazed Window Repair
Double-glazed windows can help you save energy at your home. However, they could be prone to a variety of problems in the course of time.
If the gap between the glass panes lets moisture get in, misting can occur. Untreated, this can lead to dampness or even mould.
Try lubricating handles, hinges, and mechanisms. If not, it could be time to call an expert.
Condensation
Condensation is unsightly, but it could also be an indication that the rubber seal between the double-glazed windows is getting weaker. The water vapour that is escaping from the interior of your home can seep through the gaps between the insulating glass and damage the window. The glass could then begin to cloud over, and it may also cause rot on wooden frames surrounding them.
This is a problem which can be resolved. To fix it the technician needs to make small holes into the exterior pane. Then they'll clean the windows from the inside, and then apply an anti-fog coating to get rid of any moisture that might be remaining. It could take between a few hours and a few days for the window to completely dry out. After the window has dried it is possible for the contractor to seal it again or install vents to let air flow.
Open the window to let some fresh air in. This will stop excess humidity from accumulating and help to stop condensation from forming on windows in the future. If this doesn't work, and your windows start to look hazy, you may need to seek out an expert.
In the event that the window is sealed and not cracked, it might be possible to repair it by replacing a single glass pane. It will cost less to replace a single glass pane than a complete window.
However in the event that the seals have broken down completely, or a large amount of the window has been smashed, then it is likely that the entire unit will have to be replaced. It is better to replace double-glazed windows right from the beginning, instead of having them repaired multiple times. This will save you money over time and make your home or office as comfortable and warm as you can.
Draughts
Double glazing is designed to save energy, as it consists of two separate panes of glass with an inert gas or spacer between them to create a seal that keeps warm air inside your home and cold air out. If you experience condensation or draughts, it could be because your seals are failing and need to replaced. The best way to identify if this is the case is to look for damp patches or mold on the frames, sills and any surrounding wood.
Similarly, if you find that your windows are hard to open or have sagged it could be due to a change in temperature that caused the frame to shrink or expand little. This issue can be solved by cleaning the hinges, mechanism, or handles down with cold water. Damaged locks and handles can also be a security threat and should be repaired as soon as possible.
Mist between the window panes is a much more serious issue that could compromise the thermal efficiency of your home. It could also lead to condensation and can cause damp or even mould in the long run which can be harmful to timber frames and can affect your health if you are breathing into the spores over long durations of time.
Draughts are a typical double glazed repair problem and can be easily rectified with the help of excluder kits for draughts. These kits are available from DIY retailers. They come with foam strips, adhesives and brushes that can be used to fill the gaps and prevent wind from blowing through. You can also make use of silicone sealant to fill the gaps and help to reduce draughts, especially during the winter months.
While it is possible to perform some double glazed repairs yourself, it's usually simpler and more cost effective to leave the job to experts. It is also more secure and gives you assurance that the work was completed in a professional manner and to your complete satisfaction. Whether you need repairs to a fallen sash or add draught proofing contact us today to get advice and a free estimate.
Smudging
If your double glazed windows are beginning to show streaks of smudges which just don't seem to disappear, then you may be able to eliminate them easily using a non-abrasive cleansing solution. Products such as vinegar, lemon juice, or rubbing alcohol can be used to get rid of the smudges off your windows and make them look new and clean. You can also purchase specialist glass cleaners that are more powerful than the ones you have at home. They can even remove the toughest stain.
Double glazed windows can fog up between the glass panes. A crack in the seal could cause fog between windows. If left untreated it can cause damp and mould within the home. A double glazed window repair company can fix the problem and restore thermal efficiency of your property.
It is possible that the seals may be defective however, it is not always necessary to replace the entire window unit. This can be accomplished by drilling tiny holes into the window frame and inserting a humidifier to absorb the moisture.
If condensation between windows is a persistent problem, it's best to hire an expert who can complete the job properly and ensure that the seals are still in place. This will also help to prevent the build-up of damp and mould within the property in the future.
It is possible to get rid of any smudges the glass panes inside a double-glazed window. However, it's not easy. The window must be taken apart and then resealing it isn't feasible or practical especially if the glass in one pane is broken. Caulking is a better option. It can be purchased in most hardware stores. It can be used to fill the gaps between the glass panes and restore the seal.
Broken Seals
The window seals that hold the edges of double- and triple-glazed windows in place keep water out and heat or cold in. The window seals are the only thing that prevents condensation between the glass panes. A window seal that is damaged could allow moisture into the house and cause mildew and mold.
Seals are made of rubber and can wear out or break down due to extreme weather conditions and aging. Extreme temperature changes can also cause the seals to expand and contract, which leads to them breaking. The most common sign of a broken window seal is when your windows appear foggy or blurred.
There are double glazing window repairs to repair a double-paned window with a broken seal. The sealant around the IGU's edges can be fixed as a simple DIY project by homeowners with the proper tools and the necessary knowledge. Another alternative is to replace the IGU itself it is a more involved project that involves disassembling the window frame, and then taking out the current IGU. This project should be left to professionals who have experience in this area.
A third option is to have the window sealed, which can be completed by a professional in approximately an hour. This process involves defogging the window, filling the void with argon, or Krypton gas, and then sealing the edges of the frame. This is a great option for those who are looking for an easy, cost-effective and quick solution for double-paned windows which have failed seals.
To prevent future problems Make sure that your windows have been installed by a reputable firm and that they come with a warranty. You should also check your windows each year to ensure the seals are still in good shape. This can help to identify any early signs of a sealant problem like the appearance of discoloration or even deterioration.