Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs may be needed if your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or show signs condensation. This can often be done without having to replace the entire window unit.
It is best to leave the installation of double glazing to experts.
Condensation
Condensation in double-glazed windows isn't just a nuisance however, it can also mean that warm air is leaving your home. It's usually a sign the seal is broken or is beginning to break. It is recommended to replace the entire window if that's the case.
You may be able, in some cases, to use a hairdryer to evaporate the water between the glass panes (from a distance). This is a temporary solution however, you should seek help from a professional as soon as possible. The longer the issue persists, the greater the damage to your double glazing, and possibly your health.
If the condensation is restricted to a small area of the window frame, you can generally eliminate it by wiping it away frequently and swiftly. However, if you notice condensation in larger areas of your window, this could indicate that the seal has been damaged and that the windows are no longer as efficient thermally than they need to be.
It can be caused by a variety of factors however the most common is excessive humidity or poor ventilation in your home. The humidity can easily form water droplets on cold surfaces which is the reason your double glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. If your bathroom or kitchen are especially humid, you may require installing a vent to lower the humidity levels.
If your windows are still under warranty, you can get in touch with their installer to explain the issue and ask them to fix it. They might be able simply to replace the window, or they may need 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
Windows that are smoky can be a sign of a failed 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 like 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 it is possible that moisture will seep in and result in fog. Foggy windows are not only visually unattractive, they can also make your home less efficient in energy use.
Many homeowners prefer hiring an expert to repair their windows instead of replacing their windows. Before making a recommendation, a glass expert can help determine if the windows are repairable. If they must be replaced they will be able to supply you with a top-quality replacement that won't be susceptible to foggy glass.
Double glazing can cause issues in the opening and closing of doors or windows. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or a change to the frame's structure. If you notice that your double glazing is difficult to open, the first step is to talk to the company you bought it from. The majority of companies offer warranties that cover their products for a certain period of time, and some offer lifetime warranties.
If you are unable to resolve the issue with your supplier, it may be the time to change suppliers. You should always ask for written confirmation that your complaint has been acknowledged, plus any agreements made to fix it and when these dates will be. This will make it easier to switch providers if necessary.
Foggy windows can be repaired by defogging, a procedure that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting a cleaning solution and then removing the soiled liquid and drying the interior of the glass. This is a relatively new solution that is worth a look at whether it's right for your home before committing to it. It won't, however, restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed window might appear to be a minor issue, but it can actually cause significant damage. It is crucial to get the crack fixed as quickly as you can in order to avoid further damage particularly if it's located on the inside of the glass.
repair double glazing windows -pane windows are made up of two glass panes assembled together with a space between that is filled with an inert gas, like argon or krypton. This is to prevent heat from your home from transferring through the glass. The gas also slows down the transfer of heat so that the warm air inside your home can move more slowly through the window than in the absence of any space between the two glass panes.
It is crucial that windows are properly installed and sealed properly. A licensed glazier should be able to install the windows, as they will be able seal them tightly to ensure the best insulation. If the seal on the window is not working and gas is trapped inside the panes could leak out and decrease their insulation properties, leading to cracks between two panes.
Another reason that is commonly cited for cracks in double-pane windows can be due to poor installation, which can cause the glass to expand and contracting at different rates. This could cause stress cracks appear over time, weakening the glass. If this is the case, it's important to find a professional Glazier who can be in a position to replace the damaged pane of glass with one that's more suitable for your home.
If you find a small crack in your double-glazed windows it is crucial to understand that the crack cannot be repaired by filling it in with adhesive. This is due to the fact that double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal between two panes of glass and any cracks could get worse over time, leading eventually to total breakage.
It's essential to remember that handling broken glass can be dangerous It's therefore always recommended to call in a professional glazier who will have the appropriate tools for the job. They'll also know how to get rid of the old sealant without causing further damage to the glass.
Seals that leak
A triple-pane or double-pane windows comprises an insulated glass unit (IGU) with two or three parallel sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is secured by a combination of aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents water from entering your home. In time, however the seal could fail which allows water and draughts to get into your living spaces.
This is usually due to the natural expansion or contraction of the materials used to construct your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch a bit with variations in temperature and humidity, putting IGUs at risk of failing. When the seal breaks down the insulative fill-gas may escape and leave your windows with a foggy appearance and draughts that decrease the efficiency of your house.
If a window seal is damaged, it may cause condensation or water to form between the panes which is impossible to remove. In some cases, moisture can leave a permanent mark behind on your window glass.
Generally speaking, you can fix the problem by having your windows professionally defogged and resealed. This process requires professional equipment to remove moisture, refill the void with argon or Krypton gas, and then seal it without letting the gas escape. The cost of this service will differ based on the type of IGU and your location, but the majority of double-glazed windows can be repaired in an hour or two.
In addition to changing your window seals there are other options you can take to improve the 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 home cooler and more comfortable. It's also an inexpensive method to improve the look of your windows. Also, you can use caulk or weatherstripping around your frame of your window to prevent gaps that could let cold air into your home and warm air to escape. In some instances, this is a better alternative to replacing the whole window.