Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs might be required when double-glazed windows become difficult to open or show signs condensation. In many cases, this can be done without having to replace the entire window unit.
Attempting to fix your own double glazing requires special tools, so this should be left to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation of double glazing isn't just annoying, but it also means warm air is being emitted from your home. This is usually the indication of a damaged seal or deterioration. If this is the case, it's best to replace the entire window.
You might be able in certain situations to use a hairdryer in some instances to remove the water between the glass panes (from an in-between distance). This is a good temporary fix, but it's worth keeping in mind that you should seek help from a professional as soon as possible as the longer the issue persists, the more damage it will cause to your double glazing and possibly to your health too.
If the condensation is only on a small portion of your window frame, you will usually be able to get rid of it if you wipe it down quickly and regularly. However, if you see condensation in larger areas of your window, this could mean that the seal has been damaged and windows are less thermally efficient than they should be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of causes but is usually due to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation in the house. Double-glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than older single pane windows due to the fact that humidity can easily create droplets of water on cold surfaces. Install an air vent in your bathroom or kitchen if it is particularly humid.
If your windows are still 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 replace the window, or they may need to install one-way vents in order to stop future condensation. This is a far better option than simply replacing your double glazed windows completely as it will save you money and time.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows 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 create fog. Foggy windows can make your home less effective and less attractive.
Many homeowners choose to hire an expert to repair their windows rather than replace their windows. A glass expert will be able to determine if the windows are able to be fixed before making an offer. If they must be replaced, a glass expert can provide you with top-quality replacements that aren't likely to get clogged.
Another issue with double glazing that people experience is that the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or a change in the structure of the frame. If you notice that your double glazing is difficult to open, the first step is to talk to the company you purchased it from. The majority of companies offer guarantees on their products, which last for a a set period of time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees.
If you're unable to solve the issue with your provider it could be time to switch. Always ask for an official confirmation of your complaint, as well as any agreements reached and the dates. This will make it easier to change providers if needed.
Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed by defogging, a procedure which involves drilling holes into the window, infusing cleaning solution and then removing the soiled liquid and drying the interior of the glass. This is a relatively new method, and it's worth considering whether it's appropriate for your home prior to committing to it. It can't however it will restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due to deteriorated seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that is double-glazed could appear to be an unimportant issue but it could cause significant damage. It is essential to fix the crack as soon as you can to avoid further damage. This is particularly true in the case of cracks on the inside of your glass.
Double-pane windows comprise two glass panes that are connected with a gap in between which is filled with an inert gas like argon or Krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home isn't transferred through the glass. The gas also slows down the transfer of heat, so that the warm air inside your house can move more slowly through the window than it would in the absence of any space between the two glass panes.
It is crucial that windows are fitted correctly and sealed properly. The windows should be installed by a qualified glazier, who will be able to fit the glass panes with a tight seal to ensure that they are insulated as effectively as possible. If the seal on the window has failed then the gas in the panes might leak out and decrease their insulation properties, which could lead to cracking between two panes.
Poor installation can also cause double-paned windows to break. The glass will expand and contract at different rates. This can cause stress cracks to develop over time, which weakens the glass. If this happens, you should locate a glazier to replace the damaged glass with one that is more suitable for 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 between the two glass panes, and any cracks could get worse in time, eventually leading to total breakage.
It's essential to keep in mind that handling broken glass is risky It's therefore always recommended to call in an experienced glazier who will have the appropriate tools for the job. They'll also be able to remove the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage.
Leaking Seals
A triple-pane or double-pane windows consists of an insulated glass unit (IGU) consisting of two or three parallel sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is joined by a combination of aluminum spacers and polyurethane, which forms an airtight seal between the windows that prevents moisture from penetrating your home. As time passes, the seal may fail and allow water to get into.
This is typically caused by the natural expansion or contraction of materials used to construct your window. The sealant, either polyurethane or silicone, may expand and shrink with variations in humidity and temperature, putting the IGU at risk of breaking. When the seal breaks the fill-gas that is insulating can leak and leave your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts which decrease the efficiency of your home.
If a window seal is damaged, it could also cause condensation or water to develop between the panes, which is impossible to remove. In some instances the condensation may cause an indestructible stain on the glass of your window.
Generally speaking, repair double glazing window can fix the problem by having your windows professionally defogged and resealed. This process requires the use of professional equipment to remove moisture, refill the gap with argon or krypton gas, and reseal without letting the gas escape again. The cost will vary based on the location you are in and the kind of IGU, however most double-glazed windows can be repaired in an hour or less.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your double-paned windows by doing some things, in addition to replacing the seals on your windows. Choose a glass and coating that is energy efficient that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's radiation. This will keep your living spaces cooler and more comfortable as well as enhance the appearance of your windows. Lastly, use caulk or weatherstripping around the frame of your window to stop gaps that may allow cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape. This can be a more cost-effective option than replacing the entire window.