Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows become difficult to open or are showing signs of condensation it may be time for repairs. In many cases it is possible to fix the issue without needing to replace the entire window unit.
Doing the repair yourself for double glazing will require specialized tools, which is why this should be left to an expert.
Condensation
Condensation of double glazing isn't just a nuisance but also indicates that warm air is being emitted from your home. It's usually a sign the seal is broken or is deteriorating. It is best to replace the entire window if that's the case.
You may be able in certain situations to make use of a hairdryer to eliminate the moisture between the glass panes (from some distance). This is a good temporary solution, but it's important to remember that you should seek out professional assistance as soon as possible as the longer the problem persists for a long time, the more damage it can cause to the double glazing, and possibly to your health too.
If the condensation is restricted to a tiny portion of your window frame, you can generally eliminate it by wiping it off regularly and quickly. If you notice condensation in larger areas of your window, this could indicate that the seal has been damaged and windows are less thermally efficient than they should be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a range of causes, but it's typically down to excessive humidity and/or poor ventilation around the house. Double-glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than older single pane windows since humidity is able to create droplets of water on cold surfaces. Install a vent in your kitchen or bathroom when it is especially humid.
If your windows are still under warranty, you can call their installer to explain the issue and request to address the issue. They may be able to replace the unit, or they may need 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
Foggy windows can be an indication of a broken seal in double-pane windows. These windows have two glass panes, with a space between them, and this space is filled with energy efficient gases like argon or krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal fails, moisture could get in and create fog. Foggy windows are not only ugly, but they could also make your home less energy-efficient.
While you can replace your windows when they're leaking some homeowners prefer to hire an expert to repair their windows instead. Before making an offer an expert in glass can determine if the windows can be repaired. If they need to be replaced they will be able to provide you with a top-quality replacement that won't be prone to foggy glass.
Double glazing can also cause problems in the opening and closing of doors or windows. This can be due to extreme weather conditions or changes in the structure of the frame itself. It is best to contact the company that sold you the double glazing if you find it difficult to open. The majority of companies have warranties that cover their products for a specific period of time, and some provide lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot solve the issue with your supplier, it may be time to change providers. Always ask for a written confirmation of your complaint, along with any agreements reached and the dates. If you need to switch providers this will be easier.
The windows that are stained with a haze can be fixed by defogging. It's a process that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting a cleaning solution to remove the soiled liquid, and drying the inside of the glass. This is a relatively new method and is worth a second look to determine whether it's suitable for your home prior to committing to it. It can't however, restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due to the deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed window might seem like a minor problem but it can cause significant damage. It is crucial to get the crack repaired as soon as you can in order to avoid further damage particularly if it's on inside of the glass.
Double-pane windows consist of two glass panes that are connected with a space in between which is filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton. This is done to stop 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 when there was nothing between the two glass panes.
It is crucial that windows are properly installed and sealed properly. The windows should be fitted by a licensed glazier who can install the glass panes with a seal that is tight to ensure that they're insulated as effectively as possible. If the seal on the window is not working, the gas inside the panes might leak out and reduce their insulation capabilities, leading to cracks between two panes.
Incorrect installation can cause double-paned windows to crack. The glass will expand and contract at different rates. This can cause stress cracks to appear over time, thereby weakening the glass. If this is the case, it's important to find a Glazier who can be able to replace the cracked glass with one that's more suitable for your home.
If you find a crack in your double-glazed window, it's important to be aware of the fact that it isn't able to be fixed simply by filling in the crack with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows depend on an air-tight seal between two glass panes, and any cracks could get worse in time, leading eventually to complete breakage.
It is crucial to keep in mind that broken glass can be dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to contact an expert with the right equipment to do the job. They'll also be able to take the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage.
Seals that leak
A double or triple-pane window consists of an insulated glass unit (IGU) consisting of two or three parallel sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is secured by a combination of aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents water from entering your home. Over time, however the seal may break down which allows water and draughts to seep into your living spaces.
Typically it is due to the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant, which is either polyurethane or silicone, may expand and shrink with variations in humidity and temperature which puts the IGU at the risk of deteriorating. When the seal breaks down the insulative fill-gas may escape, leaving your windows with a hazy appearance and draughts which reduce the efficiency of your house.
If a window seal is damaged, it can also cause water or condensation to develop between the panes, which is impossible to remove. In certain cases, moisture can leave a permanent mark behind on your window glass.
In general, you can resolve this problem by having your window professionally cleaned. This process requires professional equipment that removes water, fills the gap with the gas argon or krypton and then seals the window without letting gas escape. The price of this service may vary depending on the type of IGU you have and the location, but most double glazed windows can be repaired within an hour or two.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of double-paned windows by doing several things, including replacing the window seals. Select repairs to double glazing -efficient coatings and glass that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's rayons. This will make your home cooler, more comfortable and improve the appearance of your windows. Apply caulk around the frame of the window to seal any gaps that may allow cold air in and warm air out. In some cases it is a better alternative to replacing the entire window.