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 many cases this can be accomplished without needing to replace the entire window unit. It is best to delegate the installation of double glazing to professionals. Condensation Condensation in double glazing isn't just annoying, but it also means warm air is being emitted from your home. This is usually a indication of a damaged seal or deterioration. It is recommended to replace the entire window if this is the case. In some instances you may be in a position to use a hair dryer (from an appropriate distance) to evaporate the moisture from between the glass panes. This is a temporary solution however, you should seek help from a professional whenever you can. The longer the problem persists, the greater the damage to your double glazing, and even to your health. If the condensation is limited to a small area of your window frame, it is usually possible to eliminate it by wiping it down frequently and swiftly. If you notice condensation that extends across the entire frame of the window, this could mean that the seal has become damaged and that the windows are now less efficient thermally than they need to be. Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of reasons but is usually due to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation in the home. Double-glazed windows tend to show more condensation than older single pane windows due to the fact that humidity can easily create droplets of water on cold surfaces. Install a vent in your bathroom or kitchen when it is particularly humid. If your windows remain within the warranty period you can contact the company who installed windows to discuss the issue and ask them to rectify the issue for you. They could be able to replace the unit, or they might need to fit one-way air vents in order to stop any further condensation. This is a better solution than replacing your double-glazed windows, because you'll save money and time. Foggy Glass The windows that are stained with fog indicate that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. These 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. However, if the seal is damaged, moisture could get in 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 when they're leaking most homeowners prefer to hire a professional for window repair instead. A glass specialist can help determine if the windows can be fixed before making recommendations. If they require to be replaced, a glass professional can provide you with high-quality replacements that aren't prone to fogging. Another issue that double glazing that people face is that the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This can be caused by extreme weather or changes in the structure of the frame itself. It is best to contact the company that sold you your double-glazing if you find it difficult to open. Many companies offer warranties on their products that last for a a set period of time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees. If you're unable to resolve the problem with your current provider it could be time to change providers. Always request written confirmation that your complaint was received, plus any agreements made to fix it and when these dates are. If you are required to change providers, this will make it easier. Defogging is double glazed windows repairs that can be used to repair foggy windows. It involves drilling holes into the glass, introducing an cleaning solution, then removing any liquid that has been soiled and drying the inside. This is a relatively new method and is worth a second look to determine whether it's appropriate for your home before you commit to it. It won't, however it will restore the energy efficiency that's been lost due deterioration of seals. Cracked Panes A crack in a glass window that is double-glazed could appear to be an insignificant problem but it could cause significant damage. It is crucial to fix the crack as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. This is especially true in the case of cracks on the inside of the glass. Double-paned windows are made up of two glass panes which are joined together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gasses, like argon and krypton. This is to ensure that the heat from your home doesn't get transferred through the glass. The gas also slows the transfer of heat so that the warm air inside your home can move slowly through the window than it would if there was nothing between the two panes of glass. When installing, it is essential that the windows are installed properly and with a high-quality seal. A qualified glazier should install the windows, since they'll be able to seal them tightly to ensure the best insulation. If the window seal has failed and the gas inside the panes to leak out and reduce their insulation properties and resulting in cracking between the two panes of glass. Poor installation can also cause double-paned windows crack. The glass expands and contracts at different rates. This can cause stress cracks that appear over time and can weaken the glass. If this happens, you should find a glazier that can replace the broken glass with one that's more suitable for your home. If you notice a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows it is crucial to understand that the crack cannot be repaired by simply filling it with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal between the two glass panes and any cracks can worsen in time, eventually leading to complete breakage. It is crucial to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it's recommended to consult an expert who has the right tools to do the job. They'll also be able remove the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage. Leaking Seals A triple-pane or double-pane windows comprises an insulated glass unit (IGU) consisting of three or two sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is fixed by a combination of aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that stops moisture from entering your home. Over time, however, the seal can break down which allows water and draughts to get into your living spaces. Most often, this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch a bit with changes in temperature and humidity and can put IGUs 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 is damaged, it could also cause condensation or water to form between the panes, that you are unable to wipe away. In some instances, water 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 professional equipment to remove water, fill the void with argon, or Krypton gas, then reseal without letting the gas escape again. The cost can differ based on your location and type of IGU you have, but most double glazed window can be repaired in one hour or less. In addition to changing your window seals there are other options you can take to improve the energy efficiency of double-pane windows. First, you should choose windows that are energy efficient and have coatings that reflect the sun's rays instead of absorbing them. This will keep your rooms cooler and more comfortable, as well as improve the appearance of your windows. Also, you can use caulk or weatherstripping around the frame of your window to stop gaps that may let cold air into your home and warm air out. In some instances this is a good alternative to replacing the entire window.
double glazed windows repairs
