7 Things You've Never Known About Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs are possible when double-glazed windows become difficult to open or show signs condensation. This is usually done without the need to replace the whole window unit.
The process of fixing your own double glazing requires special tools, so this should be left to a professional.
Condensation
Condensation in your double-glazed windows isn't just annoying, it also means that warm air is leaving your home. It's generally a sign that the seal has broken or is beginning to break. It's best to replace the entire window if this is the case.
You may be able, in some cases, to make use of a hairdryer to eliminate the water between the glass panes (from an in-between distance). This is a quick solution, but it's worth keeping in mind that you should seek help from a professional as soon as possible as the longer the problem persists, the more damage it can cause to your double glazing and potentially to your health as well.
If the condensation is just on a small part of your window frame, you will usually be able to get rid of it by wiping it down quickly and regularly. If you notice condensation over larger areas of the window, this could indicate that the seal has been damaged and the windows are now less efficient thermally than they need to be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a range of factors but is usually due to excessive humidity or poor ventilation around the house. The humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces which is the reason your double-glazed windows are more likely to exhibit condensation than older single-pane windows. If your kitchen or bathroom are particularly humid, you might need to install a vent to lower the humidity levels.
If your windows remain under warranty, you can call their installer to discuss the issue and request to address the issue. They might be able to simply replace the unit, or they may need to install one-way vents in order to prevent further condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double glazed windows altogether as it will save you time and money.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows can be an indication of a failing seal in double-pane windows. These windows have two panes of glass with a space in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gasses such as argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. However, if the seal fails, moisture could get in and cause fog. Foggy windows aren't just visually unattractive, they can also reduce the efficiency of your home.
Many homeowners choose to hire an expert to repair their windows instead of replacing their windows. A glass expert will be able to determine whether the windows can be fixed prior to making a recommendation. If they need to 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 is encountered is that the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This can be caused by extreme weather or a change in the structure of the frame itself. It is best to contact the company that sold you the double glazing if you discover it difficult to open. The majority of companies have warranties that cover their products for a certain period of time, and some provide lifetime guarantees.
If you are unable to solve the issue with your provider, it may be time to switch providers. Always ask for a written confirmation of your complaint, any agreements that were made, and the dates. If you need to switch providers this will make it much easier.
Defogging is a technique that can be used to repair foggy windows. It involves drilling holes into the glass, injecting an cleaning solution, then removing any liquid that has been soiled and drying the interior. Before you decide to go with this method, it's important to consider whether it's suitable for your home. repair double glazing windows will not, however bring back 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 can cause serious damage. It is crucial to get the crack repaired as soon as possible in order to avoid further damage particularly if it's located on the inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows are composed of two panes of glass which are joined together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gasses, like argon or Krypton. This is done to prevent heat from your house from transferring through the glass. Gas also slows the transfer of heat, so that the warm air in your home can move slowly through the window than in the absence of any space between the two panes of glass.
When the windows are installed, it is crucial that the windows are fitted properly and with a top-quality seal. The windows should be installed by a qualified glazier, who will be able to fit the glass panes with a seal that is tight to ensure that they are well-insulated and as efficient as they can be. If the seal on the window has failed then the gas in the panes could leak out and decrease their insulation capabilities, leading to cracks between two panes.
Another reason that is commonly cited for broken double-pane windows is poor installation, which can cause the glass to expand and contracting at different rates. This can cause stress cracks that appear over time and weaken the glass. If this happens, locate a glazier to replace the broken glass with one more appropriate for your home.
If you find a crack in the double-glazed window, it's crucial to be aware of the fact that it can't be repaired simply by filling in the crack with adhesive. Double-paned windows require a strong seal between the two panes and cracks can only get worse over time.
It's important to keep in mind that handling broken glass can be dangerous and it's best to call in a professional glazier who have the proper tools to complete the task. They will also know how to remove the old sealant without causing damage to the glass.
Leaking Seals
A triple-pane or double-pane window consists of an insulated glass unit (IGU) with three or more sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is secured by a combination of aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that stops moisture from entering your home. As time passes the seal can be damaged and allow water to get in.
This is typically caused by the natural expansion or contraction of the materials used to create your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch a bit with changes in humidity and temperature which can lead to IGUs being at risk of failing. When the seal breaks down the insulative fill gas can escape, leaving your windows with a foggy appearance and draughts which reduce the efficiency of your home.
If the window seal fails, it could also cause water or condensation to develop between the panes, which you cannot wipe away. In some cases the water may leave an indestructible stain on your window's glass.
Generally speaking, you can fix the problem by having your windows professionally cleaned and sealed. This process requires specialized equipment that removes moisture, fills the void with the gas argon or krypton and then reseals the window, preventing gas escape. The price of this service may vary based on the kind of IGU you have and the location, but the majority of double glazed windows can be repaired in one or two hours.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of double-paned windows by doing several things in addition to replacing the window seals. First, you should choose energy-efficient glazing and coatings that reflect the sun's rays rather than absorb them. 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 frame of the window to seal any gaps that may let cold air in and warm air out. This is a more economical option than replacing the entire window.