Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs may be needed if your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or show signs condensation. This is usually done without having to replace the entire window unit.
It is best to delegate the installation of double glazing to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in double-glazed windows is not only annoying, but it also means warm air is escaping from your home. It's usually a sign the seal has broken or is becoming damaged. If this is the case, it's recommended to have the entire window replaced.
In some instances, you may be able to use a hairdryer (from an appropriate distance) to eliminate the moisture from between the glass panes. This is a good temporary solution, but it's worth keeping in mind that you should seek help from a professional whenever you can, as the longer the issue persists, the more damage it will cause to the double glazing, and possibly to your health too.
If the condensation is only on a small part of your window frame you are usually able to eliminate it if you wipe it off quickly and often. However, if you notice condensation over larger areas of your window, this could indicate that the seal has been damaged and that the windows are now less thermally efficient than they should be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a range of factors, but it's typically down to excessive humidity or poor ventilation around the house. The humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces which is the reason your double-glazed windows are more likely to display condensation than older single-pane windows. Install a vent in your bathroom or kitchen in the event of a especially humid.
If your windows are in the warranty period you can contact the company who installed them to explain the problem and request that they fix it for you. They might be able to replace the window or they may need to install one-way air vents to stop any further condensation. This is a much better option than simply replacing your double glazed windows altogether because it 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 an opening between them, and 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 is not strong enough it is possible that moisture will seep in and result in fog. Foggy windows can make your home less efficient and unattractive.
While you can replace your windows in case they're fogging some homeowners prefer hiring an expert for window repair instead. A glass expert will be able to determine if the windows can be fixed before making a recommendation. If they need to be replaced, a glass expert will be able to provide top-quality replacements that aren't susceptible to fogging.
Double glazing can also cause issues with the opening or closing of windows or doors. This can be caused by extreme weather or an alteration in the structure of the frame itself. If you notice that your double glazing is difficult to open, the first step is to talk to the business you purchased it from. The majority of companies offer warranties on their products that last for an agreed period of time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees.
If you are unable to solve the issue with your current provider it could be time to switch. Always ask for written confirmation that your complaint has been acknowledged, plus any agreements made to fix it and when these dates will be. If you are required to change providers, this will be easier.
Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed through defogging, a process which involves drilling holes into the window, injecting a cleaning solution, removing the soiled liquid, and drying the interior of the glass. Before committing to this procedure, it's important to consider whether it's appropriate for your home. It won't, however bring back the energy efficiency that's been lost due to deteriorated seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed window may appear to be a minor issue, but it can actually cause a lot of damage. It is essential to fix the crack as soon as possible to avoid further damage. This is especially important in the case of cracks on the inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows are made up of two panes of glass that are glued together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gases, such as argon and Krypton. This is to prevent heat from your home from moving through the glass. The gas slows the heat transfer, meaning that the warm air from your home will travel through the window much more slowly than if there were nothing between the panes of glass.
It is essential that windows are fitted correctly and with a good seal. The windows should be installed by a glazier who is qualified, who can fit the glass panes with a tight seal to ensure that they're insulated as effectively as possible. If the window seal has failed it may cause the gas inside the panes to leak and reduce their insulation properties and leading to cracks between the two glass panes.
A poor installation can also cause double-paned windows to crack. The glass expands and contracts at different rates. This can cause stress cracks to develop over time, which weakens the glass. If double glazing repairers is the case, it's important to find a good glazier who will be in a position to replace the damaged glass with an alternative that is more appropriate for your home.
In the event that you spot a crack inside your double-glazed window crucial to be aware of the fact that it can't be repaired simply by filling in the crack using an adhesive. Double-paned windows require an elongated seal between the two panes and cracks can only get worse with time.
It is crucial to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it's recommended to consult a professional who has the right tools to do the job. They will also be able to remove the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage.
Seals that leak
A triple-pane or double-pane window comprises an insulated glass unit (IGU) consisting of three or two sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is held together with a combination of polyurethane and spacers made from aluminum that creates an airtight seal between the windows that prevents water from entering your home. In time, however the seal could break down, allowing the draughts and water to penetrate into your living spaces.
This is usually due to the natural expansion or contraction of materials that were used to create your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch slightly in response to changes in temperature and humidity which can lead to IGUs being at risk of failure. If the seal fails, the insulative fill-gas can escape, leaving your windows with a cloudy appearance and draughts that decrease the efficiency of your house.
If a window seal is damaged, it can cause condensation or water to form between the panes, that you are unable to wipe away. In some instances, the moisture may form permanent marks on the glass of your window.
In general, you can solve this problem by having your window professionally defogged. This process requires professional equipment that removes moisture, fills in the void with the gas argon or krypton and then reseals the window, preventing gas escape. The price of this service may vary based on the kind of IGU you have and the location, but most double-glazed windows can be repaired within one or two hours.
In addition to changing your window seals there are other things you can do to improve the efficiency of double-pane windows. Choose energy-efficient coatings and glazing that reflect rather than absorb the sun's radiation. This will help keep your home cooler and more comfortable, and it's an inexpensive method to enhance the appearance of your windows. Use caulk around the window frame to close any gaps that allow cold air in and warm air out. In some instances, this is a better alternative than replacing the entire window.