Double Glazing Repairs
If your double-glazed windows are becoming difficult to open, or show signs of condensation it may be time for repairs. In most cases this can be accomplished without having to replace the entire window unit.
Attempting to fix your own double glazing will require specialized tools, which is why this is best left to professionals.
Condensation
The sight of condensation in your double-glazed windows isn't just annoying it can also indicate 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 some cases, to make use of a hairdryer to eliminate the water between the glass panes (from an in-between distance). This is a good temporary solution, but it's worth keeping in mind that you should seek out professional assistance whenever you can, as the longer this issue continues for a long time, the more damage it will cause to the double glazing, and possibly to your health.
If the condensation is confined to a small portion of your window frame you can generally remove it by wiping it away regularly and rapidly. However, if you see condensation in larger areas of the window, this could indicate that the seal has become damaged and the windows are now less thermally efficient than they should be.
It is caused by a variety of factors that can cause condensation, but the most prevalent are excessive humidity or poor ventilation within your home. Double-glazed windows tend to show more condensation than older single pane windows because humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces. If your bathroom or kitchen are particularly humid, you might need to install an air vent to reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows are in the warranty period you can contact the company that installed them to explain the problem and request that they fix it for you. They could be able to replace the unit, or they may need to install one-way air vents to prevent future condensation. This is a much better option than simply replacing your double glazed windows entirely since it will save you time and money.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows indicate that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. Double-pane windows have two glass panes, with a space in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gases like Krypton or argon. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If double glazing repairers fails, moisture could get in and cause fog. Foggy windows can make your home less efficient and unattractive.
Many homeowners choose to hire an expert to repair their windows rather than replace their windows. A glass specialist will be able to help determine whether the windows can be repaired before making an offer. If they must be replaced they will be able to provide you with a high-quality replacement that won't be prone to foggy glass.
Another issue with double glazing that people face is the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or changes to the frame's structure. If you notice that your double glazing is difficult to open, a good first step is to speak to the company you bought it from. The majority of companies offer warranties that protect their products for a certain period of time, and some even provide lifetime guarantees.
If you're unable to resolve the problem with your provider, it might be time to switch. Always ask for a written confirmation of your complaint, as well as any agreements that were made, and the dates. This will make it easier to change providers if needed.
Foggy windows can be repaired through defogging, a process which involves drilling holes into the window, injecting cleaning solution, removing the soiled liquid and drying the interior of the glass. Before committing to this solution it is important to determine whether it's appropriate for your home. It won't, however it will 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 issue, but it can actually cause significant damage. It's crucial to have the crack repaired as quickly as you can in order to avoid further damage, especially if it's on the inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows are made up of two glass panes that are assembled together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gasses, like argon or krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home isn't transferred through the glass. The gas slows down the heat transfer, so the warm air from your home will travel 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. A qualified glazier should install the windows, as they'll be able to seal them tightly to ensure maximum insulation. If the window seal has failed it may cause the gas in the panes to leak out which reduces their insulation and causing cracks between the two glass panes.
Another common reason for broken double-pane windows can be due to inadequate installation, which could 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 is the case, you need to find a glass glazier who is in a position to replace the damaged glass pane with one that's more suitable for your home.
In the event that you find a crack in your double-glazed window important to be aware the fact that it isn't able to be fixed simply by filling the crack with adhesive. Double-paned windows rely on a tight seal between the two panes, and any cracks will only worsen over time.
It is crucial to keep in mind that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to contact a professional who has the right tools to complete the task. They'll also be able to remove the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage.
Seals that leak
The IGU is made up of two or three sheets of glass that are annealed or tempered. The IGU is held in place by a combination aluminum spacers, and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents moisture from entering your home. In time, however, the seal can break down and allow water and draughts to seep into your living spaces.
This is usually due to the natural expansion or contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch slightly with changes in temperature and humidity and can put IGUs at risk of failure. When the seal is damaged, the insulative fill-gas can escape, leaving your windows with a foggy appearance and draughts which reduce the efficiency of your house.
If a window seal fails, it can also result in condensation or water between the panes that you can't clean away. In certain cases, moisture may leave a permanent stain behind on your window glass.
Generally, you can fix the issue by having your windows professionally defogged and resealed. This is a process that requires the use of professional equipment to remove moisture, fill the gap with argon or Krypton gas, then reseal without letting the gas escape again. The cost of this service will vary depending on the type of IGU and the location, but the majority of double glazed windows can be repaired in one hour or two.
In addition to changing your window seals There are a few other ways to increase the energy efficiency of double-pane windows. Choose a glass and coating that is energy efficient that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's radiation. This will make your home cooler and more comfortable, and it's an inexpensive way to improve the appearance of your windows. Lastly, use caulk or weatherstripping on the frame of your window to eliminate gaps that can allow cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.