Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows are becoming difficult to open or are showing signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. This is usually done without having to replace the whole window unit.
The process of fixing your own double glazing requires special tools, so this is normally better left to professionals.
Condensation
Seeing condensation in your double-glazed windows isn't just an inconvenience it could also mean that warm air is leaving your home. This is usually a indication of a damaged seal or deterioration. It's best to replace the entire window if this is the case.
In some instances 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 quick fix, but it's worth keeping in mind that you should seek out professional assistance whenever you can, as the longer the issue persists, the more damage it can cause to your double glazing and possibly to your health too.
If the condensation is confined to a small area of the window frame, you can usually eliminate it by wiping it off regularly and quickly. However, if double glazing window repairs notice condensation that extends across the entire frame of your window, this could mean that the seal has been damaged and windows are no longer as efficient thermally than they need to be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a range of reasons, but it's typically down to excessive humidity and/or poor ventilation in the home. Humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces and that's why double glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. If your kitchen or bathroom are especially humid, you may require a vent to help reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows remain under warranty, you can get in touch with their installer to discuss the issue and ask them to address the issue. They might be able to replace the unit or may have to install one-way vents to prevent further condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double-glazed windows, because you'll save time and money.
Foggy Glass
The windows that are stained with fog indicate that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. They have two glass panes with a space between them, and 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 is damaged, moisture can enter 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 replacing their windows. Before making an offer, a glass expert can determine if the windows can be repaired. If they require to be replaced, a glass professional will be able to provide high-quality replacements that are not prone to fogging.
Another issue that double glazing that people experience is the windows or doors becoming difficult to open or close. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or changes 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 bought it from. Many companies offer guarantees on their products, which last for a a set period of time. Some even provide lifetime warranties.
If you are unable to resolve the issue with your provider, it may be time to switch providers. Always request an official written confirmation of your complaint, along with any agreements reached and the dates. If you need to switch providers this will make it easier.
The windows that are stained with a haze can be fixed through defogging, a process that involves drilling holes into the window, infusing cleaning solution, removing the soiled liquid, and drying the inside of the glass. Before committing to this procedure it is important to determine whether it's appropriate for your home. Be aware, however that it can't replace any energy efficiency loss from deteriorated window seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that is double-glazed might seem like an unimportant issue however it can result in serious damage. It's crucial to have the crack fixed as quickly as you can in order to avoid further damage especially if it's on the inside of the glass.
Double-pane windows consist of two glass panes that are assembled together with a space between that is filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton. This is done to prevent heat from your home from transferring 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 panes of glass.
When the windows are installed, it is crucial that the windows are installed properly and with a top-quality seal. The windows must be installed by a glazier who is qualified, who can install the glass panes with a secure seal to ensure that they're properly insulated to the best extent. If the seal on the window is not working and gas is trapped inside the panes could leak out and decrease their insulation properties, leading to cracking between two panes.
Another reason that causes cracked double-pane windows is due to poor installation, which can result in 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 seek out a glazier who can replace the broken glass with one that's better suited to your home.
If you notice a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to understand that the crack cannot be repaired by simply 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 glass panes and any cracks can worsen over time, leading eventually to total breakage.
It is important to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it's recommended to consult a professional with the right equipment to complete the task. They will also know how to take off the old sealant without causing damage to the glass.
Leaking Seals
A triple-pane or double-pane windows is made up of an insulated glass unit (IGU) with three or two sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is fixed by a combination aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that stops moisture from entering your home. In time, the seal may break down and allow water to seep in.
Most often it is due to the natural expansion and contraction of the materials used to create your window. The sealant, whether silicone or polyurethane, can expand and shrink with changes in humidity and temperature and humidity, putting the IGU at risk of breaking down. If the seal fails, the insulative fill-gas can escape and your windows will be left with a cloudy appearance and draughts which reduce the efficiency of your house.
If a window seal is damaged it can lead to water or condensation between the panes, which you are unable to clean away. In some instances, water can leave a permanent stain left on the glass of your window.
In general, you can resolve this problem by having your window professionally defogged. This process requires specialized equipment that removes moisture, fills the void with Krypton or argon gas, and then seals the window, preventing gas escape. The price of this service may differ based on the type of IGU and the area, but the majority of double-glazed windows can be repaired in an hour or two.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your double-paned windows doing a few things, in addition to replacing the window seals. Choose energy-efficient coatings and glazing that reflect rather than absorb the sun's rayons. This will keep your living spaces cooler and more comfortable, as well as improve the appearance of your windows. Also, you can use caulk or weatherstripping around your frame of your window to stop gaps that could let cold air into your home and warm air out. This can be a more cost-effective option than replacing the entire window.