Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs are possible when double-glazed windows become difficult to open or show signs of condensation. This can often be done without having to replace the entire window unit.
The process of fixing your own double glazing will require specialized tools, and should be left to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in your double glazing isn't just an inconvenience it can also indicate that warm air is exiting your home. It's generally a sign that the seal has broken or is deteriorating. It's best to replace the entire window if this is the case.
In some cases you may be capable of using a hairdryer (from a safe distance) to eliminate the moisture between the glass panes. This is a great temporary fix, but it's worth keeping in mind that you should seek help from a professional whenever you can, as the longer this issue continues for a long time, the more damage it will cause to your double glazing and potentially to your health.
If the condensation is confined to a tiny portion of the window frame, you can generally get rid of it by wiping it down regularly and rapidly. However, if you see condensation that extends across the entire frame of the window, this could indicate that the seal has become damaged and windows are less efficient thermally than they need to be.
It is caused by a variety of causes that can cause condensation, but the most prevalent are excessive humidity or poor ventilation within your home. Humidity can easily form droplets of water on surfaces that are cold, which is why your double-glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than older single-pane windows. Install a vent in your kitchen or bathroom if it is particularly humid.
If your windows are within the warranty period, you can contact the company that installed them to explain the problem and request that they fix the issue for you. They may be able to simply replace the unit, or they might need to fit one-way air vents to stop future condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double-glazed windows, since you'll save money and time.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows indicate that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes, with a space between them. The 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. If the seal fails it is possible that moisture will seep in and cause fog. Foggy windows can make your home less efficient and unattractive.
Many homeowners prefer to hire an expert for window repair rather than replace their windows. Before making recommendations, a glass specialist can determine if the windows are repairable. If they must be replaced, a glass expert can provide you with high-quality replacements that are not likely to get clogged.
Double glazing can also cause problems with the opening or closing of windows or doors. This can be due to extreme weather conditions or an alteration in the structure of the frame itself. You should contact the company that sold you the double glazing if you find it difficult to open. The majority of companies offer warranties that provide their products for a specified period of time, and some offer lifetime warranties.
If you are unable to solve the issue with your provider it could be the right time to switch providers. You should always ask for written confirmation that your complaint was received and any agreements signed to resolve it and what these dates will be. If you are required to change providers this will make it much easier.
Defogging is a technique that can be used to repair foggy windows. This involves drilling holes in the glass, introducing the cleaning solution, getting rid of any liquid that has been soiled and drying the inside. Before committing to this procedure it is important to determine whether it's suitable for your home. It won't, however it will restore the energy efficiency that's been lost due deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed window might seem like a minor issue but it can cause significant damage. It is crucial to get the crack fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage, particularly if it's on inside of the glass.
Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes connected with a space in between which is filled with an inert gas, like argon or Krypton. This is to prevent heat from your home from transferring 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 in the absence of any space between the two panes of glass.
It is essential that windows are installed correctly and with a good seal. double glazing repairers qualified glazier should install the windows as they can seal them tightly to ensure the best insulation. If the seal on the window is not working then the gas in the panes could leak out and decrease their insulation properties, which could lead to cracks between the panes.
Another common reason for cracked double-pane windows can be due to poor installation, which can lead to the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This could cause stress cracks develop over time, which weakens the glass. If this is the case, it's crucial to find a good glazier who will be able to replace the cracked glass with one that's more suitable for your home.
If you spot a crack inside the double-glazed window, it's important to be aware the fact that it can't be fixed by filling the crack with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal between the two panes of glass and any cracks could get worse over time, eventually leading to complete breakage.
It is crucial to remember that broken glass can be dangerous. Therefore, it's best to call an expert with the right equipment to complete the task. They will also be able remove the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage.
Leaking Seals
A triple-pane or double-pane window consists of an insulated glass unit (IGU) comprising three or two sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is held in place by a combination of aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents water from entering your home. In time the seal can fail and allow water to get into.
This is usually caused by the natural expansion or contraction of the materials that were used to make your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch a bit with variations in temperature and humidity and can put IGUs at risk of failure. When the seal is damaged the insulative fill gas can escape and leave your windows with a foggy appearance and draughts which reduce the efficiency of your home.
If a window seal is damaged, it could cause condensation or water to develop between the panes, that you are unable to wipe away. In some instances, water may leave a permanent stain on the window glass.
Typically, you can correct the problem by having your windows professionally defogged and resealed. This procedure requires professional equipment that removes moisture, fills the void with the gas argon or krypton and then reseals the window without letting gas escape. The price of this service may vary depending on the type of IGU and your area, but the majority of double-glazed windows can be repaired in one hour or two.
In addition to replacing your window seals there are other things you can do to increase the energy efficiency of your double-pane windows. The first is to select high-efficiency glazing and coatings that reflect the sun's rays instead of absorbing them. This will make your home cooler and more comfortable, and it's an inexpensive method to improve the appearance of your windows. Also, you can use caulk or weatherstripping on the frame of your window to eliminate gaps that could let cold air into your home and warm air out. In some cases it is a better alternative to replacing the whole window.