Double Glazing Repairs
If your double-glazed windows are becoming difficult to open, or are showing signs of condensation it could be time for repairs. This can be done without having to replace the whole window unit.
Attempting to fix your own double-glazing requires specialized tools, and is normally better left to professionals.
Condensation
The sight of condensation in your double glazing isn't just annoying it could also mean that warm air is exiting your home. It's usually a sign the seal has broken or is beginning to break. It is best to replace the entire window if this is the case.
In some instances you might be able to use a hairdryer (from an appropriate distance) to remove the moisture that is trapped between the glass panes. This is a good temporary solution, but it's worth keeping in mind that you should seek professional help immediately if you are able to do so. the longer the problem persists, the more damage it will cause to your double glazing and possibly to your health as well.
If the condensation is confined to a small area of your window frame, you can usually eliminate it by wiping it down regularly and rapidly. However, if you see condensation that extends across the entire frame of your window, this could mean that the seal has been damaged and the windows are less thermally efficient than they should be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a range of factors but is usually due to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation in the home. Double-glazed windows tend to show more condensation than single-pane windows because humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces. If your kitchen or bathroom 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 discuss the issue and ask them to resolve it. They might be able simply to replace the window or may have to install one-way vents to prevent further condensation. This is a much better option than simply replacing your double glazed windows entirely as it will save you money and time.
Foggy Glass
The presence of fog in windows is a sign of a failed seal in double-pane windows. These windows have two panes of glass with a space between them. The space is filled with energy efficient gases such as argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal fails it is possible that moisture will seep in and create fog. Foggy windows aren't just unattractive, but they can also reduce the efficiency of your home.
Many homeowners prefer hiring an expert for window repair instead of replacing their windows. Before making recommendations an expert in glass will help determine if your windows are repairable. If they must be replaced, a glass professional can provide you with top-quality replacements that aren't susceptible to fogging.
Another issue with double glazing that people face is the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or a change to 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. Most companies offer guarantees on their products that last for a set period of time. Some even provide lifetime warranties.
If you are unable to resolve the issue with your provider it could be the right time to switch providers. Always request a written confirmation of your complaint, any agreements reached and the dates. This will allow you to switch providers should you need to.
The windows that are stained with a haze can be fixed through defogging, a process that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting cleaning solution to remove the soiled liquid, and drying the inside of the glass. Before committing to this procedure it is essential to think about whether it is right for your home. It won't, however it will restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due to deteriorated seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that's double-glazed might seem like an insignificant problem but it could cause significant damage. It is essential to fix the crack as quickly as possible to avoid further damage. This is particularly true if the crack is on the inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows consist of two panes of glass which are joined together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gasses, like argon or Krypton. This is done to prevent heat from your house from moving through the glass. The gas slows heat transfer, so the warm air from your home can move through the window much more slowly than if there were nothing between the panes of the glass.
During installation, it's important that the windows are installed correctly and have a top-quality seal. The windows should be fitted by a licensed glazier who will be able to fit the panes of glass with a secure seal to ensure they are properly insulated to the best extent. If repairs to double glazing windows on the window has failed and gas is trapped inside the panes could leak out and reduce their insulation properties, leading to cracking between two panes.
Another reason that is commonly cited for cracks in double-pane windows is poor installation, which may lead to the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This could cause stress cracks to develop over time, which weakens the glass. If this happens, you should locate a glazier to replace the broken glass with one that is more appropriate for your home.
If you spot a crack inside your double-glazed window important to be aware of the fact that it isn't able to be repaired simply by filling the crack with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows depend on an air-tight seal that is created between the two panes of glass and any cracks could get worse in time, eventually leading to total breakage.
It is crucial to keep in mind that broken glass can be dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to contact an expert with the right equipment to do the job. They will also know how to get rid of the old sealant, without causing damage to the glass.
Seals that leak
The IGU is made up of three or two sheets that are joined by annealed glass or the tempered. The IGU is held together with a combination of aluminum spacers and polyurethane that creates an airtight seal between the windows that keeps moisture from penetrating your home. Over time, however, the seal can be damaged which allows water and draughts to get into your living spaces.
This is usually due to the natural expansion or contraction of materials used to construct your window. The sealant, whether polyurethane or silicone, may expand and contract slightly in response to variations in humidity and temperature which puts the IGU at risk of breaking. If the seal fails, the insulating fill-gas could leak leaving your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts that reduce the efficiency in your home.
If a window seal fails it could also cause water or condensation to form between the panes, that you are unable to wipe away. In some instances, water can leave a permanent stain on the window glass.
In general, you can fix this problem by having your window professionally cleaned. This procedure requires professional equipment that removes moisture, fills in the void with argon gas or krypton, and then reseals the window without letting gas escape. The cost can differ based on your location and kind of IGU, however most double-glazed windows can be repaired in an hour or less.
In addition to replacing your window seals, there are a few other options you can take to increase the efficiency of double-pane windows. First, try to choose high-efficiency glazing and coatings that reflect the sun's rays rather than absorb them. This will make your home cooler and more comfortable, as well as improve the appearance of your windows. Also, you can use caulk or weatherstripping around your frame of your window to prevent gaps that could allow cold air into your home and warm air to escape. In certain situations, this is a better alternative than replacing the entire window.