Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows become difficult to open or show signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. In most instances, this can be done without needing to replace the entire window unit.
blown double glazing repair is recommended to leave the installation of double glazing to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in your double glazing isn't just a nuisance it could also mean that warm air is escaping your home. This is usually a indication of a damaged seal or the deterioration of. If this is the case, it's recommended to replace the entire window.
You may be able, in some cases, to make use of a hairdryer to eliminate the moisture between the glass panes (from an in-between distance). This is a good temporary solution, but it's also worth keeping in mind that you should seek out professional assistance as soon as possible as the longer the issue persists and the longer it lasts, the more damage it could cause to your double glazing and possibly to your health.
If the condensation is confined to a small portion of the window frame, you can usually eliminate it by wiping it away frequently and swiftly. If you see condensation in a larger area of the frame of your window, it could mean that the seal has been damaged and the windows are not as efficient in thermal efficiency.
It is caused by a variety of factors that can cause condensation, but the most prevalent is excessive humidity or poor ventilation in your home. Humidity can easily form droplets of water on surfaces that are cold, which is why your double-glazed windows are more likely to exhibit condensation than older single-pane windows. If your kitchen or bathroom are especially humid, you may require a vent to help reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows are still under warranty, you can contact their installer to explain the issue and ask them to fix it. They may be able to replace the unit or they may have to install one-way vents to prevent further condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double-glazed windows, because you'll save time and money.
Foggy Glass
The presence of fog in windows is a sign of a failed seal in double-pane windows. They have two glass panes with 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 ugly, but they could also make your home less energy-efficient.
Many homeowners choose to hire an expert for window repair instead of replacing their windows. A glass specialist will be able to determine if the windows can be fixed prior to making a recommendation. If they must be replaced they will be able to provide you with a top-quality replacement that isn't prone to foggy glass.
Another issue with double glazing that is encountered is that the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or a change in the structure of the frame. Contact the company that sold you the double glazing if you find it difficult to open. Many companies offer guarantees on their products that last for the specified time. Some even provide lifetime warranties.
If you cannot solve the issue with your provider it could be the right time to change providers. Always request written confirmation that your complaint has been received, plus any agreements made to fix it and when these dates will be. This will allow you to switch providers should you need to.
Foggy windows can be repaired by defogging. It's a process that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting cleaning solution, removing the soiled liquid, and drying the inside of the glass. Before you decide to go with this method it is essential to think about whether it's suitable for your home. Be aware, however that it won't restore any lost energy efficiency from damaged window seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a glass window that is double-glazed could appear to be something minor however it can result in serious damage. It's important to have the crack repaired as quickly as you can in order to avoid further damage, particularly if it's on inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows are composed of two panes of glass which are joined together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gases such as argon and Krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home isn't transferred through the glass. The gas slows heat transfer, meaning that the warm air from your home may move through the window much more slowly than if there was nothing between the panes of the glass.
During installation, it's important that the windows are positioned properly and with a top-quality seal. The windows should be fitted by a licensed glazier who can fit the panes of glass with a seal that is tight to ensure they are properly insulated to the best extent. If the seal on the window has failed then the gas in the panes might leak out and decrease their insulation properties, leading to cracking between two panes.
Another reason that causes cracks in double-pane windows is 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, you need to find a good glass glazier who is in a position to replace the damaged glass with a new one that is more appropriate for your home.
If you discover a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows it is important to know that the crack can't be repaired by filling it with adhesive. Double-paned windows depend on a tight seal between the two panes and cracks can only get worse over time.
It's essential to keep in mind that handling broken glass can be dangerous, so it's always best to call in an experienced glazier who will have the proper tools for the job. They'll also be able to take the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage.
Seals that leak
A triple-pane or double-pane window comprises an insulated glass unit (IGU) comprising three or more sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is fixed by a combination aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal, which prevents moisture from entering your home. As time passes, the seal may break down and allow water to seep into.
This is typically caused by the natural expansion or contraction of the materials used to construct your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch slightly with variations in temperature and humidity which can lead to IGUs being at risk of bursting. If the seal is damaged the insulating fill gas could leak out leaving your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts that can reduce the efficiency of your home.
If a window seal fails it may also cause water or condensation to form between the panes, which you cannot wipe away. In some cases, moisture can leave a permanent mark on the window glass.
Typically, you can correct the problem 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 price of this service may differ based on the type of IGU and your area, but the majority of double glazed windows can be repaired in one or two hours.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your double-paned windows by doing a few things, in addition to replacing the window seals. Choose energy-efficient coatings and glazing that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's radiation. This will help keep your home cooler and more comfortable, and it's an affordable way to improve the appearance of your windows. Lastly, use caulk or weatherstripping on the frame of your window to stop gaps that can let cold air into your home and warm air out. In some cases, this is a better alternative than replacing the entire window.