Double Glazing Repairs
If your double-glazed windows are difficult to open, or show signs of condensation it could be time for repairs. In most cases it is possible to fix the issue without having to replace the entire window unit.
Attempting to fix your own double glazing requires special tools, which is why this is best left to an expert.
Condensation
Condensation in double glazing isn't just annoying however, it can also mean that warm air is escaping from your home. It's usually a sign the seal has been damaged or is beginning to break. If this is the case, it's recommended to have the entire window replaced.
You may be able in some instances to use a hairdryer to evaporate the water between the glass panes (from an in-between distance). This is a good temporary solution, but it's also important to remember that you should seek professional help whenever you can, as the longer the issue persists and the longer it lasts, the more damage it will cause to the double glazing, and possibly to your health too.
If the condensation is confined to a small area of your window frame, it is usually possible to get rid of it by wiping it down regularly and quickly. However, if you notice condensation over larger areas of the window, it could mean that the seal has become damaged and windows are now less efficient in terms of thermal efficiency than they ought to be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of factors but is usually due to excessive humidity or poor ventilation in the house. Humidity can easily create droplets of water on cold surfaces, which is why your double-glazed windows are more likely to display condensation than older single-pane windows. If your kitchen or bathroom are particularly humid, you might require a vent to help reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows remain under warranty, you can call their installer to explain the issue and ask them to address the issue. They might be able to 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
Foggy windows are a sign that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. repair double glazing windows -pane windows have two glass panes, with a gap 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 the seal fails, moisture may seep through and create fog. Foggy windows can make your home less efficient and unattractive.
Many homeowners prefer to hire an expert to repair their windows instead of replacing their windows. Before making a recommendation, a glass expert can help determine if the windows can be repaired. If they require to be replaced, a glass expert will be able to provide high-quality replacements that are not likely to get clogged.
Double glazing can also cause problems when it comes to the opening and closing of windows or doors. This can be caused by extreme weather or changes in the structure of the frame. If you find that your double-glazed is difficult to open, the first step is to speak to the business you purchased it from. The majority of companies have warranties that cover their products for a specified period of time, and some provide lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the issue with your provider, it may be time to change providers. Always request written confirmation that your complaint has been acknowledged, plus any agreements made to fix it and when these dates are. This will make it easier to switch providers should you need to.
Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed by defogging, a procedure which involves drilling holes into the window, injecting a cleaning solution and then removing the soiled liquid, and drying the inside of the glass. Before you decide to go with this method, it's important to consider whether it's suitable for your home. It can't however it will restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due to the deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that's double-glazed may seem like an unimportant issue but it could cause significant damage. It's important to have the crack fixed as quickly as possible in order to prevent further damage, particularly if it's located on the inside of the glass.
Double-pane windows comprise two glass panes assembled together with a space in between which is filled with an inert gas like argon or Krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home isn't transferred through the glass. The gas also slows down the transfer of heat, so that the warm air in your house can move more slowly through the window than it would when there was nothing between the two glass panes.
It is essential that windows are installed correctly and have a solid seal. A qualified glazier should install the windows as they can seal them tightly to ensure maximum insulation. If the window seal is not working, it could cause the gas in the panes to leak which reduces their insulation and leading to cracks between the two glass panes.
Another reason that is commonly cited for cracks in double-pane windows is poor installation, which may cause the glass to expand and contracting at different rates. This can cause stress cracks to develop over time, which weakens the glass. If this happens, seek out a glazier who can replace the damaged glass with one that's more suitable for your home.
If you notice a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows, it is important to know that the crack can't be repaired by filling it in with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows depend on an air-tight seal between two glass panes and any cracks may worsen over time, leading eventually to total breakage.
It is crucial to remember that broken glass can be dangerous. Therefore, it is best to call a professional who has the right tools to complete the task. They will also be able to remove the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage.
Seals that leak
A triple-pane or double-pane window is made up of an insulated glass unit (IGU) consisting of two or three parallel sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is held together by the combination of polyurethane and aluminum spacers which creates an airtight seal between the windows that prevents moisture from penetrating your home. In time the seal can be damaged and allow water to leak in.
Typically it is due to the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant, whether polyurethane or silicone, may expand and shrink with variations in humidity and temperature and humidity, putting the IGU at the risk of deteriorating. When the seal breaks down, the insulative fill-gas can escape and leave your windows with a cloudy appearance and draughts that decrease the efficiency of your home.
When a window seal fails, it can also cause condensation or water between the panes that you can't remove. In some cases, moisture can leave a permanent stain behind on your window glass.
In general, you can solve this issue by having your window professionally cleaned. This process requires specialized equipment that removes water, fills the gap with Krypton or argon gas, and then seals the window, preventing gas escape. The cost of this service will differ based on the type of IGU and your location, but most double-glazed windows can be repaired within an hour or two.
You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of your double-paned windows by doing several things, including replacing the seals on your windows. First, you should choose energy-efficient glazing and coatings that reflect sun's rays, rather than absorb them. This will keep your living spaces cooler, more comfortable and improve the appearance of your windows. Use caulk around the window frame to close any gaps that could let cold air in and warm air out. In some instances this is a good alternative to replacing the entire window.