Double Glazed Window Repairs
Over time, double glazing may develop a range of issues. This could include damaged seals between the panes, condensation, and even draughts.
The good news is that a lot of these can be repaired without having to replace the entire window frame. A double glazing repair company that is well-established can save you money.
Broken Panes
Double pane windows are made up of two glass panes and an additional layer. Together the gas and the double panes create an effective insulator. This allows you to use less energy in order to regulate temperatures at home, and reduce your electricity bills. They also help reduce outside noise and protect your carpets, furniture walls, wall art, and photos from sun-induced damage. If one of your windows are damaged or cracked you'll notice that your home is less livable and your energy costs could increase. It is possible to fix the problem yourself.
Remove a broken pane from the double-glazed window by taking off the sash. Before starting taking the window off, you must wear gloves and to have an ample garbage bag nearby for the glass pieces that can break when handled. You'll also need a putty knife or deglazing tool to cut through any sealant on the frame as well as around the window pane that has been damaged. Once the frame is cut, it is now possible to attach the glass replacement.
You should remember that a double-paned window can't be resealed without replacing the panes. Otherwise the efficiency of the window will be compromised. However, it's also worth noting that the glass itself can be repaired and it's recommended to get in touch with an expert as they are familiar with the process of dismantling the window and reinstalling the panes of glass.
Broken Seals
Window seals are designed to keep outside air from getting into your home and argon gas, which helps with insulation to stay in the home, from escape. As time passes the seal could become brittle or even break. Be on the lookout for any indications of a damaged seal and contact the experts if you notice them.
Fog in double- and triple-paned windows is the most obvious indication of a damaged window seal. This is due to a failure in the seals on the edges which secure each pane glass within the IGU (insulated-glazing unit).
As humid air enters between your windows, it causes condensation and causes the fog that you can see or wipe away. This could appear to be a minor issue, but it indicates that your IGU no longer offers its full insulation value. Additionally the inert gases that were contained within the window are now leaking out. This further reduces your window's ability to conserve energy.
A professional window technician can examine the IGU for damage and reseal the edges. This is a fairly inexpensive and quick solution to the problem, but it's important to note that this is only a temporary fix. If you want to stop the fog from returning then you'll need to have your window resealed frequently.
There are other ways you can boost your window's insulating power. Installing weather stripping or caulk around the frame of your window will help block out drafts and cold or hot outdoor air. Paint your windows with a light color can help reflect the sun's heat and keep your house cooler.
If your windows are more than 15-20 years old and aren't showing any signs of damage or breakage replacing them is the best option for improving your home's insulation. Newer windows are more effective in keeping cool or heat air out and in. This means you'll save money by not utilizing your cooling or heating system so much. A professional window contractor can recommend the most efficient replacements for your home.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation on the window pane is a common problem that can affect modern double-glazed windows. It usually occurs when a double glazed window isn't able to create a secure seal and the interior temperature of the air is higher than the outside air. This can cause water to accumulate between the glass panes creating a milky appearance or fogging. This can be extremely irritating and, although there are simple solutions available, the best solution is to employ an expert to drill holes in the outer pane, clean the windows from inside, and install one-way air vents to prevent condensation from occurring in the future.
Most homeowners will encounter condensation on the inside of their double-glazed windows at times, especially during renovations like plastering or painting where there is a significant humidity and the surface can easily become damp. It is rare to see condensation between windows. This is usually an indication of a problem with the insulated unit.
The problem could be caused by a broken seal, but it is often a sign the spacer bar in between the two panes is not working properly. The spacer bars are filled with desiccant an material that is highly absorbent, and it sucks up any moisture that is trapped in the air gap between the window panes. It can be saturated when the window seal isn't perfect. Once it is full of desiccant, condensation can form on the inside.
Moisture that remains on windows or other surfaces could cause mould and rot growth and is not just unsightly but also bad for your health. If you let the condensation remain on your windows, it may eventually cause leaks or loose windows.
There are a variety of easy ways to handle the condensation between double-glazed windows. Dehumidifiers and opening windows for a few minutes each day will lower humidity and help prevent condensation. These appliances are affordable priced and are frequently utilized in kitchens and bathrooms to remove excess moisture.
upvc window repairs are one of the most common indicators that your double glazing isn't performing as it should. Draughts can be a nuisance especially in winter. They could also cause your home to lose more heat than it needs to. You can determine if your uPVC windows have a good seal by looking for a gap in the frame or noticing the presence of a draft.
If you can feel a draught coming from your window and you feel it, then the seals made of rubber might have perished. The seals are designed to expand when a window is closed, and stop cold air from entering your home. If they're not doing this, then it is time to have them replaced.
Another reason for draughts is that the door or window handles might be broken. The handles won't close properly, causing gaps where draughts enter. It is best to contact a double-glazed window repair company to repair these parts.
Over time, a double glazed window may shrink slightly and this makes it difficult to open and close them. This is often due to fluctuations in temperature, which cause the frame to shrink or expand. Try wiping the frames using cold water, but it is usually best to get them repaired by a professional.
Misting can also be an indication that the insulating properties of double glazing aren't as good as they should be. The seals between the glass units start to weaken, allowing moisture to enter the window and create condensation. It is best to call an expert who can replace the glass unit that is sealed and fix the misting.
These are just some of the ways your double-glazed windows could need to be repaired. If you're experiencing any of these issues, then it's important to fix them quickly to prevent further damage and reduce the cost of heating your home. If your double-glazing is still covered by warranty, you should get in contact with the company that installed them to find out whether they can help.
