Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows become difficult to open or show signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. This can be done without having to replace the entire window unit.
The process of fixing your own double-glazing requires specialized tools, and is normally better left to an expert.
Condensation
Condensation in your double glazing isn't just an inconvenience, it also means that warm air is exiting your home. It's generally a sign that the seal has been damaged or is deteriorating. It is recommended to replace the entire window if this is the case.
You may be able in some instances to use a hairdryer to evaporate the water between the glass panes (from a distance). This is a temporary fix however, you should seek help from a professional as soon as possible. The longer the issue persists, the more damage to your double-glazed windows, and even to your health.
If the condensation is restricted to a small portion of your window frame you can generally eliminate it by wiping it off frequently and swiftly. If you notice condensation that extends across the entire frame of your window, this could mean that the seal has been damaged and the 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 or poor ventilation around the house. Humidity can easily form water droplets on cold surfaces which is the reason your double glazed windows are more likely to display condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. If your bathroom or kitchen are particularly humid, you may need to install an air vent to reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows are still in the warranty period, you can contact the company who installed them to describe the issue and ask them to rectify it for you. They might be able to replace the unit or they may have to install air vents that are one-way to prevent future 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 a sign of a failed 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 like Krypton or argon. 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 efficient and look unattractive.
While windows can be replaced if they are fogging most homeowners prefer to hire an expert to repair their windows instead. Before making a recommendation an expert in glass can help determine if the windows can be repaired. If they require to be replaced, a glass expert can provide you with high-quality replacements that aren't prone to fogging.
Another issue that double glazing that is encountered is the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or an alteration 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. Most companies offer guarantees on their products that last for a the specified time. Some even provide lifetime warranties.
If you are unable to resolve the problem with your provider It could be time to change providers. Always request a written confirmation of your complaint, any agreements reached and the dates. This will allow you to change providers if needed.
Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed through defogging, a process that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting cleaning solution and then removing the soiled liquid, and drying the interior of the glass. This is a relatively new solution and is worth a second look to determine whether it's right for your home before committing to it. Be aware, however, that it will not bring back any energy efficiency lost from damaged window seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that's double-glazed could appear to be an unimportant issue however it can result in serious damage. It's important to have the crack fixed as quickly as you can to prevent further damage, especially if it's on the inside of the glass.
Double-pane windows consist of two glass panes that are joined with a space between which is filled with an inert gas 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 inside your home can move more slowly through the window than it would when there was nothing between the two glass panes.
When the windows are installed, it is crucial that the windows are fitted properly and with a top-quality seal. A glazier who is certified should install the windows, since they can seal them tightly to ensure maximum insulation. If the seal on the window has failed then the gas in the panes may leak out and diminish their insulation properties, leading to cracks between two panes.
Poor installation can also cause double-paned windows crack. The glass will expand and contract at different rates. This could cause stress cracks to appear over time, weakening the glass. If this is the case, you need to find a glass glazier who is in a position to replace the damaged glass with an alternative that is more appropriate for your home.
If you discover a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows it is crucial to understand that the crack can't be repaired by filling it with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal between two glass panes and any cracks may worsen over time, eventually leading to total breakage.
It is important to remember that handling broken glass is risky, so it's always best to get a professional glazier who will have the right tools for the job. They'll also be able to take the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage.
Leaking Seals
A triple-pane or double-pane windows consists of an insulated glass unit (IGU) consisting of three or two sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is held together with the combination of polyurethane and spacers made from aluminum, which forms an airtight seal between the windows, which prevents water from entering your home. As time passes the seal could break down and allow water and draughts to seep into your living spaces.
Typically, this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to create your window. repair double glazing , which is either polyurethane or silicone, will expand and contract slightly in response to variations in humidity and temperature, putting the IGU at the risk of deteriorating. If the seal fails, the insulating fill-gas can leak, leaving your windows with an appearance of fog and draughts that reduce the efficiency in your home.
If a window seal fails it could also lead to water or condensation between the panes that are difficult to clean away. In some instances, the moisture may form a permanent stain on the glass of your window.
Typically, you can correct the issue by having your windows professionally cleaned and sealed. This procedure requires professional equipment that removes water, fills the gap with argon gas or krypton, and then seals the window without letting gas escape. The cost of this service can vary depending on the type of IGU you have and the area, but the majority of double glazed windows can be repaired within an hour or two.
In addition to changing your window seals There are a few other options you can take to improve the energy efficiency of your double-pane windows. Choose energy-efficient coatings and glazing that reflect rather than absorb the sun's radiation. This will keep your living spaces cooler and more comfortable, as well as improve the appearance of your windows. Also, you can use caulk or weatherstripping around your frame of your window to prevent gaps that may allow cold air into your home and warm air out. In some cases this is a good alternative than replacing the entire window.