Double Glazed Window Repairs
Over time, double glazing may develop a variety of problems. This can include cracks in the seals between panes, condensation, and even draughts.
It's a good idea to know that the majority of these issues can be solved without having to replace the frame of the window. Using an established double glazing repair service can save you money.
Broken Panes
Double pane windows have two glass panes, with gas sprayed between them. The gas and the double panes together create a strong insulation that allows you to reduce the use of energy to control temperatures in your home, thereby reducing the cost of power. They also reduce the sound of the outside and protect your furniture, carpets walls, wall art, and photographs from sun-induced damage. If one of your windows are cracked or broken, you will notice that your home is less livable and your energy costs could increase. It is possible to fix the problem yourself.
Remove a broken window pane from windows with double glazing by removing the sash. Before you start, it's best to wear gloves and have an ample garbage bag nearby for the glass pieces, which could break if handled. You'll need a deglazing device or putty blade to cut through the sealant around the window and on the frame. After the frame has been cut, it is now possible to attach the glass replacement.
It is important to keep in mind that you can't reseal a double pane window without replacing both panes as the efficiency of the window will be reduced. It's important to note that the glass can be repaired. However, it's best to speak with a professional who will be experienced in the process of disassembling the window and replace the glass panes.
Broken Seals
The window seals prevent the outside air from entering and the gas argon, used to keep your home warm, from escaping. However, with time the seal's flexibility can wear down or even break. It's important to look out for signs of a cracked seal and contact the professionals to ensure your energy efficiency remains at its best.
The most obvious indication that seals on your windows are failing is the development of fog that is visible between the triple or double pane windows. This is caused by a flaw in the seals on the edges which secure each pane glass inside the IGU (insulated-glazing unit).
As humid air enters between your windows, it causes condensation, which creates fog that you can see or wipe away. Although this is a relatively minor problem but it could mean that your IGU does not provide its full insulation value. Additionally any inert gas that was in the window is now flowing out, thereby reducing your window's efficiency in saving energy.
A window technician with experience will look over the IGU and reseal edges that have been damaged. This is a fairly inexpensive and quick solution to the issue, but it's important to remember that it is only temporary solution. You will need to reseal your window on a regular basis if want to prevent the fog from recurring.
There are other ways to boost the insulation power of your windows. Install caulk around the window frame to block drafts and hot or cold air from outside. Painting your windows in a light hue can also help reflect the heat of the sun and help keep your home cooler.
If your windows are older than 20 years and do not show any indications of abrasion or breaking, it's best to replace them. This will increase the insulation of your home. Newer windows are more effective in keeping cool or warm air inside and out. This means that you will save money by not utilizing your cooling or heating system as much. A professional window contractor can recommend the most efficient replacement windows for your home.
Condensation between the Panes
Modern double-glazed windows are vulnerable to condensation on the glass. It is usually caused when a double-glazed window isn't able to create a secure seal and the interior air temperature is higher than the outside air. This could cause condensation of moisture between the glass panes giving them a milky look or fogging. upvc window repair near me can be very irritating and although there are solutions that are quick and easy to fix, the best solution is to hire an expert to drill holes in the outer pane, clean the windows from inside and install one-way air vents to prevent condensation from occurring in the future.
Most homeowners will experience condensation on the inside their double-glazed windows at one point, especially after changes like plastering or painting where the humidity is high and the surface becomes damp. It is uncommon to see condensation on windows. This is usually an indication of a problem with the insulated unit.
A broken seal could be the cause of the issue, but it's also a sign that the spacer bar between the two panes might not be working correctly. The spacer bar is filled with desiccant. This material is highly absorbent, and it draws any moisture that is trapped in the "air gap" between the windows. This could become saturated when the window seal is not perfect. When it is filled of desiccant and condensation begins to form on the inside.
Moisture left on surfaces like windows can cause mould and rot which is not just unsightly and unsanitary, but also detrimental to your health. If you let the condensation remain on your windows, it may eventually cause leaks or loose windows.
There are many ways to handle the condensation between windows with double glazing. Open the windows for a few minutes every day to let air flow in will help to reduce humidity levels and avoid condensation, just like using a dehumidifier. These electrical appliances are reasonably priced and are often employed in kitchens and bathrooms to eliminate excess moisture.
Draughts
Draughts could indicate that your double glazing system isn't functioning properly. They can be hard to bear, particularly in the winter months and can cause your home to lose heat at a greater rate than it should. You can determine whether your uPVC windows have effective seals by looking for a gap in the frame or feeling for an air draught.
If you sense a draught coming through your window, then the rubber seals might have perished. Seals are designed to be able to compress and block cold air from entering the home when the window is closed. If they're not doing this then it's time to repair them.
Broken handles on windows and doors can also lead to draughts. The handles won't close properly, which causes gaps that let draughts in. It is best to contact a double-glazed window repair company to fix these parts.
Over time, a double-glazed window may shrink slightly and this makes it more difficult to open and close them. This is usually due changes in temperature that cause the frame to expand or shrink. You can try wiping the frames with cold water to see if this can help but in the majority of cases, it is best to have them fixed by professionals.
Misting can also be a sign that the insulating properties of double glazing aren't as effective as they could be. This happens because the seals between the glass units begin to weaken which allows moisture to get into the window and create condensation. It is best to call an expert who can replace the glass unit sealed with seals and fix misting.
Here are some of the most common ways that double-glazed windows may require repairs. It's important that you fix these issues as quickly as you can in order to prevent further damage and to reduce the cost of heating. If your double glazing is still under warranty then you should contact the company who installed them to find out whether they can assist.