Double Glazing Repairs
If your double-glazed windows are becoming difficult to open or are showing signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. This is usually done without having to replace the whole window unit.
It is best to leave the job of installing double glazing to professionals.
Condensation
The sight of condensation in your double glazing isn't just a nuisance, it also means that warm air is exiting your home. It's usually a sign the seal has been damaged or is becoming damaged. If this is the case, it's recommended to replace the entire window.
It is possible in certain situations to use a hairdryer in some instances to remove the moisture between the glass panes (from some distance). This is a temporary solution however, you should seek professional assistance as soon as you can. The longer the issue persists, the more damage to your double glazing, and possibly to your health.
If the condensation is only in a small area of your window frame, you can usually get rid of it by wiping it off quickly and often. If you see condensation over a larger portion of the frame, it could mean that the seal has been damaged and windows are not as efficient in thermal efficiency.
It can be caused by many causes however the most common is excessive humidity or poor ventilation in your home. Double-glazed windows tend to show more condensation than older single pane windows since humidity is able to form droplets of water on cold surfaces. If your bathroom or kitchen are especially humid, you may require installing an air vent to reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows remain within their warranty you can contact the company that fitted them to describe the issue and ask them to fix it for you - they could be able to replace the unit, or they might need to fit one-way air vents 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. Double-pane windows have two glass panes with a space between them. 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. If the seal is damaged, moisture could get in and create fog. Foggy windows can make your home less efficient and look unattractive.
Many homeowners prefer hiring an expert to repair their windows rather than replace their windows. Before making recommendations, a glass specialist will help determine if your windows can be repaired. If they must be replaced, a glass specialist will be able to provide high-quality replacements that are not likely to get clogged.
Double glazing can also cause issues when it comes to the opening and closing of doors or windows. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or changes in the structure of the frame itself. You should contact the company that sold you the double glazing if you discover it difficult to open. Most companies offer warranties on their products that last for an agreed period of time. Some even offer lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the issue with your supplier it could be the right time to switch providers. Always ask for an official written confirmation of your complaint, any agreements reached and the dates. This will allow you to change providers if needed.
Defogging is a method that can be used to fix foggy windows. It involves drilling holes in the glass, then injecting an cleaning solution, then removing any liquid that has been soiled and drying the inside. This is a relatively new solution and is worth a second look to determine whether it's right for your home prior to committing to it. It can't however, restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed window might seem like a minor issue, but it can actually cause significant damage. It's crucial to have the crack fixed as quickly as you can to avoid further damage, particularly if it's on inside of the glass.
Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes assembled together with a gap in 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 the heat transfer, which means that the warm air from your home may move through the window at a slower pace than if there were nothing between the panes of glass.
It is essential that windows are properly installed and with a good seal. The windows must be installed by a licensed glazier who can install the glass panes with a secure seal to ensure they are insulated as effectively as possible. If the seal on the window is not working and gas is trapped inside the panes might leak out and diminish their insulation properties, which could lead to cracks between the panes.
Another reason that causes broken double-pane windows is due to poor installation, which may lead to the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This could cause stress cracks to appear over time, weakening the glass. If this happens, you should seek out a glazier who can replace the broken glass with one more appropriate for your home.
In the event that you discover a crack in your double-glazed window, it's important to be aware the fact that it can't be fixed simply by filling in the crack with an adhesive. Double-paned windows require a tight seal between the two panes, and cracks are likely to get worse over time.
It is crucial to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, repair double glazing window 's recommended to consult an expert with the right equipment to complete the task. They will also know how to get rid of the old sealant without causing further damage to the glass.
Leaking Seals
The IGU consists of three or more sheets of glass that are annealed or glass that has been tempered. The IGU is held in place by a combination of aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents moisture from getting into your home. In time, however the seal could break down which allows the draughts and water to penetrate into your living spaces.
This is typically caused by the natural expansion or contraction of materials used to create your window. The sealant, either silicone or polyurethane, can expand and contract slightly in response to variations in humidity and temperature, putting the IGU at risk of breaking down. If the seal is damaged the insulating fill gas could leak leaving your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts which can reduce the efficiency of your home.
When a window seal fails, it can also result in condensation or water between the panes, which you are unable to wipe away. In some cases the water may leave permanent marks on your window glass.
In general, you can resolve this problem by having your window professionally cleaned. This procedure requires professional equipment that removes moisture, fills the void with Krypton or argon gas, and then seals the window, preventing gas escape. The cost can differ based on your location and type of IGU you have, however, most double-glazed windows can be repaired in an hour or less.
You can increase the energy efficiency and comfort of double-paned windows by doing a few things in addition to replacing the seals on your windows. Choose a glass and coating that is energy efficient that reflect rather than absorb the sun's radiation. This will help keep your home cooler and more comfortable. It's an inexpensive way to improve the look of your windows. Lastly, use caulk or weatherstripping on the frame of your window to prevent gaps that may let cold air into your home and warm air out. This is a cost-effective option than replacing the entire window.