Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows become difficult to open, or show signs of condensation it could be time for repairs. In many instances this can be accomplished without the need to replace the entire window unit.
Attempting to fix your own double glazing requires special tools, so this should be left to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in double glazing is not only annoying however, it can also mean that warm air is being emitted from your home. It's generally a sign that the seal has broken or is becoming damaged. It's best to replace the entire window if that's the case.
You might be able, in some cases, to make use of a hairdryer to eliminate the moisture between the glass panes (from a distance). This is a temporary fix but you should seek help from a professional whenever you can. The longer the issue persists, the more damage to your double glazing, and possibly to your health.
If the condensation is just on a small portion of your window frame, you are usually able to eliminate it by wiping it off quickly and frequently. If you see condensation over a larger portion of the frame, it could mean that the seal is damaged and the windows are not as efficient in thermal efficiency.
It is caused by a variety of reasons however the most common is excessive humidity or poor ventilation in your home. Double-glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than single-pane windows because humidity can easily form water droplets on cold surfaces. If your kitchen or bathroom are especially humid, you may need to install a vent to help reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows remain under warranty, you can call their installer to explain the issue and request to resolve it. They might be able to simply replace the window or may have to install one-way vents in order to prevent future condensation. This is a better solution than replacing your double-glazed windows as you will save time and money.
Foggy Glass
The presence of fog in windows is 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 such as argon or krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal is not strong enough, moisture may seep through and result in fog. Foggy windows are not only visually unattractive, they can also make your home less energy-efficient.
While you can replace your windows if they are fogging some homeowners prefer to hire an expert to repair their windows instead. A glass specialist will be able to determine if the windows can be repaired before making an offer. If they require to be replaced, a glass expert can offer high-quality replacements that aren't susceptible to fogging.
Double glazing can also cause problems in the opening and closing of doors or windows. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or a change in the structure of the frame itself. If you find that your double-glazed is difficult to open, a good first step is to talk to the company you purchased it from. Most companies have warranties that provide their products for a certain period of time, and some offer lifetime warranties.
If you are unable to resolve the problem with your current provider It could be time to change providers. Always ask for an official written confirmation of your complaint, any agreements made and the dates. This will allow you to change providers if needed.
Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed by defogging. It's a process which involves drilling holes into the window, injecting cleaning solution to remove the soiled liquid, and drying the inside of the glass. Before committing to this solution it is essential to think about whether it's suitable for your home. It can't however it will restore the energy efficiency that's been lost due deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that is double-glazed may seem like something minor however it can result in serious damage. It is crucial to get the crack repaired as soon 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 panes of glass which are joined together. double glazing window repair between the panes is filled with inert gases such as argon and Krypton. This is done to prevent heat from your house from moving through the glass. The gas slows heat transfer, which means that the warm air from your home may travel through the window more slowly than if there was nothing between the panes of glass.
It's crucial that the windows are properly installed and sealed properly. The windows should be installed by a glazier who is qualified, who can fit the panes of glass with a tight seal to ensure that they are well-insulated and as efficient as they can be. If the window seal is not working it may cause the gas in the panes to leak, reducing their insulating properties and causing cracks between the two panes of glass.
Incorrect installation can cause double-paned windows to break. The glass expands and contracts at different rates. This can cause stress cracks that develop over time and weaken the glass. If this happens, locate a glazier to replace the damaged glass with one that is 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 cannot be fixed by filling in the crack using an adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal between two glass panes and any cracks may worsen in time, leading eventually to total breakage.
It is important to remember that handling broken glass can be dangerous and it's best to contact a professional glazier who have the appropriate tools to complete the task. They will also be able to take the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage.
Seals that leak
The IGU is made up of three or two parallel sheets annealed glass or glass that has been tempered. The IGU is fixed by a combination aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that stops moisture from getting into your home. As time passes the seal may fail, allowing water and draughts to seep into your living spaces.
Typically this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of the materials used to create your window. The sealant, whether 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 could leak out, leaving your windows with an appearance of fog and draughts, which decrease the efficiency of your home.
If a window seal fails it could also result in condensation or water between the panes that you can't wipe away. In some cases, moisture can leave a permanent mark on the window glass.
Generally, you can fix the issue by having your windows professionally defogged and resealed. This procedure requires professional equipment that removes moisture, fills in the void with the gas argon or krypton and then seals the window without letting gas escape. The cost can vary depending on your location and the type of IGU you have, but most double glazed window can be repaired in one hour or less.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of double-paned windows by doing several things, including replacing the window seals. Select energy-efficient coatings and glass that reflect rather than absorb the sun's rayons. This will make your rooms cooler and more comfortable. It's also an inexpensive way to enhance the appearance of your windows. Use caulk around your window frame to seal any gaps that may let cold air in and warm air out. In some instances this is a good alternative to replacing the entire window.