Double Glazed Windows Repairs
As time passes, your double glazed windows will start to display signs that they require repair. These might include a draught entering the window, misting, condensation on the windows, or even broken glass.
These issues can usually be solved without having to replace the entire window units. It can also save you money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A baseball thrown by your children, a pebble from your lawnmowers or a mishap at the office could cause a crack to appear in the double-glazed windows you have. Double glazing is different from single-paned windows since it has an airtight gas seal between the two panes. Therefore, if a cracked pane of glass leaves your home with an empty gap in the frame it is imperative to replace it.
In just a few steps, you can put in a new window pane. The old glass and wood surrounding it must be removed. The new pane is placed in the frame's opening and then pressed in place with silicone caulk.
The frame's gap is then filled with window putty which can be spread around using a putty knife, and then smoothed using a second putty knife. Window putty can also be used as an adhesive, helping to hold the new pane into place. If your double-glazed windows have wood moldings, you might require a chisel to take any varnish or paint from the grooves in which the moldings fit.
Before installing a new window ensure you are wearing a pair of heavy gloves to avoid cuts when working with glass. Then, scrape off any remaining window glazing using a utility knife. Then take measurements of the opening to the new window. If you have a wooden frame, subtract 1/16 of an inch from each measurement to allow for expansion and contraction of the wooden frame. Metal frames should be treated in the same way to ensure that the replacement glass fits perfectly.
In the course of repairing a double-glazed window it is also possible that seals between the glass panes could become faulty. This can result in condensation or mist in the gap. This issue can be solved by a technician who drills tiny holes into the frame. He or she can then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it, and seal it.
While you can fix double-glazed windows on your own, it is normally best to hire a professional take care of the job. Special tools are needed to take out and install the new glass, therefore the job should only be performed by a qualified expert to avoid potential injuries.
Foggy Windows
The window seal (also called the gasket on the window) is responsible for sealing air between the two glass panes in your double glazing, and prevents drafts, moisture and noise. As time passes the window seal may shrink or even disappear. This is because of the natural expansion and contraction of the window when it goes through different temperature and weather conditions all through the year.
The windows that are stained with a haze indicate that the air-tight seal between the two panes of the window is failing. This allows humidity from outside air to enter and build up between the glass panes resulting in a an appearance of frosted, wet that is difficult to clean.
There is a way to fix the problem without removing double-glazing. One method to solve this problem is to 'defog the window' in place. This can be accomplished by drilling tiny holes in the glass panes and injecting an cleaning agent. This is a temporary solution because the solution only removes the fog, not replace the inert gases that are between the glass panes. It won't also replace the energy efficiency that has been lost due to deteriorating seals.
You can also replace your insulated glass unit (IGU). This will result in clean, fresh and clear windows, as well as returning any energy efficiency lost. This will cost more than just fixing the IGU, but it's a more permanent solution.
There is also the chance that the frame of your window or door may be rotting and need to be replaced. This is a costly repair however it will give you a new start and stop more moisture from getting into your home. It is recommended to hire an expert to evaluate the damage to your window prior to you begin any repairs. They will give you a quote and advise you on the options available. They will then assist you to choose a new double glazing that is suitable for. They will use quality materials and ensure that your windows are installed properly to last for many years to be.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation is an natural phenomenon that occurs when warm air comes in contact with the cool surface. The water vapour in the air to condense, creating droplets of liquid. Condensation that forms on glass windows that are double-glazed can be easily cleaned away. However, moisture that accumulates between the panes could cause mold to grow or even damage the glass.
The moisture that builds up between your windows can be caused by many things such as temperature fluctuations, high humidity and broken seals. Older windows are more prone to this issue than newer ones that have improved sealing technology.
The formation of condensation between the panes of your window is not something you should ignore It is important to keep in mind that it is possible to fix the issue without having to replace the entire window unit. In most cases, this issue is caused by leaks in the gas seal, or vacuum, which is found around the inner and outer frames of your windows.
A professional can inspect your window and determine if the seals require repairs or replaced. If the seals require to be replaced it will make your windows more efficient in to insulate cold or heat which will result in lower energy bills.
To fix this issue, a specialist can drill holes in the windows' outer and inner to expel the moisture that has built up inside. It can take anything from a few minutes to several days to remove all the moisture. When the window is dry it can be sealed with vents which allow moisture and air to be able to escape naturally.
The best way to avoid this issue altogether is by ensuring that your windows are properly sealed and maintained regularly to prevent the seals from deteriorating. This can be accomplished by hiring a professional to carry out regular maintenance on your double glazing. This will ensure that any issues are identified early and can be fixed before they become more serious, assisting to extend the lifespan of your double-glazed windows, and lessening the necessity for replacements.
Damaged Frames
Sometimes the frames of double glazing may be damaged and require repair. Repairs to these frames will require the expertise of a professional. Most of these types are less expensive than having to replace the window units. They will also be more energy efficient.
Condensation occurs when water gets into the frame of double-glazed units. This is caused when the seal made of rubber that keeps the insulating gap free of water deteriorates and minute holes appear. This can be a result of a variety of causes, most commonly the seals wearing down or the slightest amount of water getting trapped between the panes.
If double glazing repairs spot any issue the first thing you should do is contact the company where you bought your double glazing. They will examine the issue and, if it is covered under warranty, they'll arrange to have the unit replaced for you.
It is important to keep in mind that this process could take some time, depending on how busy the company is. It is essential to know all you can about the company as well as the installers and services before signing an agreement. This will allow you to avoid problems later and make sure that repairs are completed correctly.
A professional can replace the gasket seals which have shrunk and cracked to stop moisture and condensation forming between the panes of glass. This is a much cheaper alternative to installing double glazing windows which could cost thousands of pounds. This is better for the environment, and you'll save money on energy bills.
In some instances the frame of a window could need to be replaced completely. This could be due to damage, or because windows have become old and not energy efficient anymore. If the window is damaged beyond repair, it's best to replace it with a comparable type of unit. This will improve the efficiency of your home and prevent future problems caused by leaks and condensation.