Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can develop several faults over time. This could be due to cracks in the seals between the panes, condensation, and even drafts.
The good news is that a lot of these are repairable without having to replace the entire frame of the window. Using an established double glazing repair business can save you money.
Broken Panes
Double pane windows are comprised of two glass panes and a layer between them. Together the gas and the double panes create an efficient insulation. This helps you to use less energy in order to regulate the temperature in your home, lowering your electric bills. They also reduce noise from outside and also protect furniture and artwork from damage caused by sun. If one of your windows is damaged or cracked, you will notice that your home will be less comfortable and your energy costs could increase. The good news is that you can solve this issue by yourself.
You can take out a broken pane of a double glazed window by removing the sash and removing it from its frame. Before beginning, it's best to wear gloves and keep an enormous trash bag nearby for the glass pieces which can shatter when handled. You'll also need a putty knife or deglazing tool to cut through any sealant on the frame and around the broken window pane. After this is done the replacement glass unit can be attached.
It is important to remember that a double-paned window can't be sealed unless it is replaced with both panes. In the event that it is not done the efficiency of the energy will be compromised. But, it's important to remember that the glass itself can be repaired and it's recommended to contact a professional as they will be familiar with the process of dismantling the window and reinstalling the panes of glass.
Broken Seals
Window seals help keep outside air from getting into your home and prevent argon gas, which is used to create insulation, from escaping. As time passes, the seal can become brittle or even break. It is important to watch out for signs of a cracked seal and then call the professionals to ensure your energy efficiency remains at its highest level.
Fog in double- and triple-paned windows is the most obvious sign of a damaged window seal. This is caused by a break in the edge seal which secures each glass pane within the IGU (insulated glazing unit).
As humid air enters between your windows, it creates condensation and creates the fog that you can see or wipe away. Although this is a relatively minor problem however, it indicates that your IGU isn't able to provide its full insulation value. Additionally any inert gas that was in the window is now flowing out, thereby reducing your window's energy-saving abilities.
A professional window technician will examine your IGU and reseal any edges that are damaged. This can be a relatively affordable and quick fix to the issue, however it's worth noting that it is only an interim solution. You'll need to replace your windows regularly if you are trying to prevent fog from recurring.
There are a variety of other ways to increase the insulation properties of your window. Installing weather stripping or caulk around the frame of your window can help block out drafts as well as cold or hot outside air. Paint your windows with a light color can help reflect the sun's rays and help keep your home cooler.
If your windows are older than 20 years old and do not show any indications of abrasion, or breaking, it's best to replace them. This will increase the insulation of your home. Modern windows are better at keeping heat or cool air inside and out. This means you can save money by not using your cooling or heating system as much. A professional window installer will be able to recommend the most efficient replacements for your home.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation on the window pane is a typical issue that can affect modern double-glazed windows. It is usually caused when a double-glazed window fails to provide a tight seal and the internal temperature of the air is higher than the outside air. This could cause water to accumulate between the glass panes giving them a milky appearance or fogging. This can be extremely irritating and although there are quick fixes available however the best solution is to employ professionals to drill holes into the outer pane, wash the windows from inside and install one-way air vents to prevent future condensation.
A majority of homeowners will see condensation on the inside of their double-glazed windows from time to time and especially after renovations like painting or plastering, in areas with a high humidity level and the surface is susceptible to becoming damp. It is however rare to see condensation on the windows and if it does it's usually an indication that something is wrong with the insulated window unit.
The issue could be caused by a broken seal, but it's also often a sign that the spacer bar between the two panes is not working properly. The spacer bars are filled with desiccant, an material that is highly absorbent, and it sucks up any moisture in the 'air gap' between the windows. This can become saturated when the window seal is imperfect. When it is filled of desiccant and condensation begins to develop on the inside.
The moisture that is left on surfaces such as windows can cause mould and rot which is not only ugly but also dangerous to your health. If condensation is left on your windows for an extended time, it could eventually lead to leaks and loose windows.
The good news is that there are few easy ways to tackle the condensation between your double-glazed windows. upvc window repair and opening windows for a short period every day can reduce humidity and stop condensation. These electrical appliances are reasonably priced and are frequently used in bathrooms and kitchens to eliminate excess moisture.
Draughts
Draughts could indicate that your double-glazing system is not working correctly. Draughts can be a nuisance, especially during winter. They can also cause your home to lose more heat than it should. You can test whether your uPVC windows have a good seal by looking for a gap within the frame or feeling for a draught.
If you feel a draft coming from your window then the seals made of rubber could have failed. The seals are designed to compress when a window is shut and block cold air from entering your home. If they don't do this then it's time to get them replaced.
Broken handles on windows or doors can also lead to drafts. The handles can't close properly, causing gaps where draughts enter. It is recommended to contact a double-glazed window repair service to fix these parts.
Double-glazed windows may become difficult to open or close after a certain period of time. This is often due to fluctuations in temperature, which cause the frame to shrink or expand. Try wiping the frames with cold water, but it is usually best to repair them by a professional.
Misting is also a sign that the insulating properties of your double glazing aren't quite as good as they should be. This happens because the seals between the glass units start to break down which allows moisture to get into the window and form condensation. If you're experiencing this, you should call in the professionals to replace the sealed unit, and also fix the misting.
These are only some of the ways your double glazed windows might need to be repaired. It's important that you fix these issues as soon as possible in order to avoid further damage and to reduce the cost of heating. If your double-glazing is still covered by warranty, it's a good idea to contact the company that installed them to see if they can help.