Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows are becoming difficult to open or show signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. This can often be done without the need to replace the entire window unit.
Attempting to fix your own double glazing will require specialized tools, which is why this should be left to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in double glazing isn't just annoying but also indicates that warm air is being emitted from your home. It's generally a sign that the seal has broken or is deteriorating. It is best to replace the entire window if that's the case.
It is possible in certain situations to make use of a hairdryer to eliminate the water between the glass panes (from an in-between distance). This is a great temporary solution, but it's important to remember that you should seek help from a professional as soon as possible as the longer the issue persists and the longer it lasts, the more damage it could cause to the double glazing, and possibly to your health.
If the condensation is limited to a small area of your window frame it is usually possible to remove it by wiping it away regularly and rapidly. However, if you see condensation that extends across the entire frame of the window, this could mean that the seal has been damaged and windows are now less efficient thermally than they need to be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a range of causes but is usually due to excessive humidity and/or poor ventilation in the house. Humidity can easily create water droplets on cold surfaces, which is why your double-glazed windows are more likely to display condensation than older single-pane windows. If your kitchen or bathroom are especially humid, you may require installing a vent to lower the humidity levels.
If your windows remain under warranty, you can get in touch with their installer to explain the issue and ask them to resolve it. They may be able to simply replace the unit or they may have to install one-way vents in order to prevent future condensation. This is a much better option than simply replacing your double-glazed windows altogether since it will save you time and money.
Foggy Glass
The presence of fog in windows is an indication of a failing seal in double-pane windows. Double-pane windows are made up of two panes of glass with a space in between. 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. However, if the seal fails, water can enter and result in fog. Foggy windows are not only visually unattractive, they can also reduce the efficiency of your home.
Many homeowners prefer hiring an expert for window repair rather than replace their windows. A glass specialist will be able to determine whether the windows can be fixed prior to making an offer. If they must be replaced, a glass specialist can offer top-quality replacements that aren't prone to fogging.
Double glazing can also cause issues when it comes to the opening and closing of doors or windows. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or a change in the structure of the frame. If you notice that your double glazing is difficult to open, a good first step is to talk to the company you bought it from. Most companies have warranties that provide their products for a specified period of time, and some provide lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the problem with your provider it could be time to change providers. You should always ask for written confirmation that your complaint has been received along with any agreements reached to resolve it and what these dates will be. This will make it easier to switch providers if necessary.
The windows that are stained with a haze can be fixed by defogging. It's a process which involves drilling holes into the window, injecting a cleaning solution, removing the soiled liquid, and drying the interior of the glass. This is a relatively new technique and is worth a second look to determine whether it's right for your home prior to committing to it. Keep in mind, though that it won't bring back any energy efficiency lost from damaged window seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a glass window that is double-glazed could appear to be something minor, but can cause serious damage. It is crucial to get the crack repaired as quickly as you can in order to avoid further damage particularly if it's located on the inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows consist of two panes of glass which are joined 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 also slows down the transfer of heat, so that the warm air inside your home can move slowly through the window than it would if there was nothing between the two glass panes.
It's crucial that the windows are properly installed and have a solid seal. The windows should be installed by a glazier who is qualified, who will be able to fit the panes of glass with a tight seal to ensure that they are properly insulated to the best extent. If the seal on the window has failed and gas is trapped inside the panes could leak out and decrease their insulation properties, which could lead to cracks between two panes.
Another common reason for broken double-pane windows is poor installation, which may lead to the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This can lead to stress cracks that appear over time and weaken the glass. If this happens, you should find a glazier that can replace the damaged glass with one that is more suitable for your home.
If you discover a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to realize that the crack is not repaired by filling it in with adhesive. This is due to the fact that double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal that is created between the two panes of glass and any cracks could get worse over time, leading eventually to total breakage.
It is crucial to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it's best to call a professional who has the right tools to do the job. They will also know how to remove the old sealant without causing further damage to the glass.
Leaking Seals
The IGU is comprised of three or two sheets that are joined by annealed glass or glass that has been tempered. The IGU is held together with a combination of aluminum spacers and polyurethane that creates an airtight seal between the windows that keeps moisture from entering your home. Over time the seal can be damaged and allow water to seep into.
Typically this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of the components used to construct your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch slightly in response to changes in humidity and temperature, putting IGUs at risk of failure. When the seal breaks, the insulating fill-gas could leak out, leaving your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts, which reduce the efficiency in your home.
If a window seal is damaged, it could cause condensation or water to form between the panes which you cannot wipe away. In certain cases, moisture can leave a permanent mark on the window glass.
In general, you can resolve this issue by having your window professionally defogged. This is a process that requires the use of professional equipment to remove moisture, fill the gap with argon or krypton gas, and reseal without letting the gas escape. blown double glazing repair can vary depending on your location and the type of IGU you have, however most double-glazed windows repair can be completed in an hour or less.
In addition to changing your window seals There are a few other ways to improve the efficiency of your double-pane windows. First, try to choose energy-efficient glazing and coatings that reflect the sun's rays rather than absorb them. This will keep your living spaces cooler and more comfortable as well as enhance the appearance of your windows. Apply caulk around the window frame to close any gaps that could allow cold air to enter and warm air out. In some instances, this is a better alternative to replacing the whole window.