Double Glazing Repairs
If your double-glazed windows become difficult to open or exhibit signs of condensation, it may be time for repairs. In most instances it is possible to fix the issue without needing to replace the entire window unit.
The process of fixing your own double glazing requires special tools, which is why this is normally better left to professionals.
Condensation
The sight of condensation in your double-glazed windows isn't just annoying it could also mean that warm air is leaving your home. It's generally a sign that the seal has been damaged or is beginning to break. It is recommended to replace the entire window if this is the case.
In some cases 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 temporary fix but you should seek help from a professional as soon as you can. The longer the problem persists, the more damage to your double glazing, and even to your health.
If the condensation is only in a small area of your window frame you will usually be able to get rid of it if you wipe it off quickly and frequently. If you notice condensation over a larger portion of the window frame it could indicate that the seal has been damaged and windows aren't as efficient at absorbing heat.
It can be caused by many reasons, but the most common is excessive humidity or poor ventilation within your home. Humidity can easily create droplets of water on surfaces that are cold and that's why double glazed windows are more likely to display condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. If your bathroom or kitchen are particularly humid, you might require a vent to help reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows are within the warranty period and you want to contact the company that fitted them to explain the problem and ask them to rectify it for you - they might be able to replace the window or they may need to install one-way air vents to prevent future condensation. This is a better solution than replacing your double-glazed windows because you'll save time and money.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows indicate that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. These windows have two panes of glass with a space in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gasses like argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal is not strong enough the moisture could seep through and result in fog. Foggy windows can make your home less effective and less attractive.
glaziers RepairMyWindowsAndDoors choose to hire an expert for window repair instead of replacing their windows. A glass specialist will be able to help determine if the windows are able to be repaired before making an offer. If they must be replaced they will be able to supply you with a high-quality replacement that isn't prone to foggy glass.
Another issue that double glazing that people experience is the windows or doors becoming difficult to open or close. This can be due to extreme weather conditions or a change in the structure of the frame. It is best to contact the company that sold you the double-glazing if you find it difficult to open. The majority of companies offer guarantees on their products that last for a set period of time. Some even provide lifetime warranties.
If you cannot solve the issue with your provider It could be time to switch. Always request an official written confirmation of your complaint, any agreements made and the dates. If you need to switch providers, this will make it much easier.
Defogging is a method that can be used to repair foggy windows. This involves drilling holes in the glass, introducing a cleaning solution, removing any liquid that has been soiled and drying the interior. Before committing to this procedure it is essential to think about whether it's appropriate for your home. It can't however bring back the energy efficiency that has been lost due deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a glass window that is double-glazed could appear to be an unimportant issue however it can result in serious damage. It is essential to fix the crack as quickly as you can to avoid further damage. This is especially important in the case of cracks in the interior of your glass.
Double-pane windows comprise two glass panes joined with a space between that is filled with an inert gas, like argon or krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home doesn't get transferred through the glass. The gas slows down the heat transfer, which means that the warm air from your home will travel through the window at a slower pace than if there was nothing between the panes of glass.
It is essential that windows are fitted correctly and with a good seal. A glazier who is certified should install the windows, since they can seal them tight to ensure the best insulation. If the seal on the window is not working then the gas in the panes may leak out and reduce their insulation capabilities, leading to cracks between the panes.
Another common reason for cracks in double-pane windows is due to inadequate installation, which could cause the glass to expand and contracting at different rates. This can cause stress cracks to appear over time, weakening the glass. If this is the case, you need to find a good glazier who will be in a position to replace the damaged glass with an alternative that is more suitable for your home.
In the event that you spot a crack inside your double-glazed window important to be aware of the fact that it cannot be fixed simply by filling the crack with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal that is created between the two glass panes, and any cracks can worsen in time, eventually leading to complete breakage.
It's essential to keep in mind that handling broken glass is risky It's therefore always recommended to call in a professional glazier who have the appropriate tools for the job. They'll also be able to remove the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage.
Seals that leak
The IGU is made up of two or three sheets of glass that are annealed or the tempered. The IGU is held in place by a combination of aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that stops moisture from entering your home. In time, the seal may fail and allow water to leak into.
Typically, this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of the materials used to make your window. The sealant, either silicone or polyurethane, can expand and shrink with changes in temperature and humidity which puts the IGU at risk of breaking down. If the seal is damaged the insulating fill gas can leak, leaving your windows with an appearance of fog and draughts that reduce the efficiency in your home.
When a window seal fails, it can also cause condensation or water between the panes that you can't wipe away. In some cases, moisture may leave a permanent stain left on the glass of your window.
In general, you can fix this issue by having your window professionally cleaned. This procedure requires specialized equipment to eliminate moisture, fill the gap with argon or krypton gas, and reseal without letting the gas escape. The price of this service may vary depending on the type of IGU and your location, but the majority of double glazed windows can be repaired within one hour or two.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your double-paned windows doing a few things, including replacing the window seals. Select energy-efficient coatings and glass that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's rayons. This will make your home cooler and more comfortable, and it's an affordable way to enhance the appearance of your windows. Use caulk around the window frame to close any gaps that allow cold air in and warm air out. In some cases, this is a better alternative to replacing the entire window.