Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows become difficult to open, or are showing signs of condensation it could be time for repairs. In most cases this can be accomplished without having to replace the entire window unit.
The process of fixing your own double glazing will require specialized tools, and is best left to a professional.
Condensation
Condensation of double glazing isn't just a nuisance but also indicates that warm air is leaving 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.
You might be able, in some cases, to use a hairdryer in some instances to remove the moisture between the glass panes (from some distance). This is a quick solution, but it's important to remember that you should seek help from a professional whenever you can, as the longer the problem persists and the longer it lasts, the more damage it could cause to your double glazing and potentially to your health.
If the condensation is confined to a tiny portion of your window frame you can generally get rid of it by wiping it away regularly and rapidly. If you see condensation on a larger area of the frame of your window it could indicate that the seal is damaged and windows aren't as efficient at absorbing heat.
Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of factors, but it's typically down to excessive humidity and/or poor ventilation around the house. Humidity can easily create droplets of water on cold surfaces which is the reason your double glazed windows are more likely to display condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. Install an air vent in your kitchen or bathroom when it is particularly humid.
If your windows are still in the warranty period you can contact the company that fitted windows to discuss the issue and ask them to fix the issue for you. They could be able to replace the window or they may need to install air vents that are one-way to stop future condensation. This is a better solution than replacing your double-glazed windows since you'll save money and time.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows indicate that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. These windows have two glass panes with space 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 damaged, moisture could get in and cause fog. Foggy windows are not only unattractive, but they can also make your home less efficient in energy use.
Many homeowners prefer hiring an expert for window repair rather than replacing their windows. Before making recommendations, a glass expert can help determine if the windows can be repaired. If they need to be replaced they'll be able to provide you with a premium replacement that isn't prone to foggy glass.
Double glazing can also cause problems with the opening or closing of windows or doors. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or a change in the frame's structure. If you find that your double-glazed is difficult to open, a good first step is to speak to the business you purchased it from. Many companies offer guarantees on their products that last for a a set period of time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees.
If you are unable to solve the issue with your provider, it may be time to change providers. Always ask for an official confirmation of your complaint, as well as any agreements that were made, and the dates. This will allow you to switch providers should you need to.
Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed through defogging, a process that involves drilling holes in the window, infusing cleaning solution to remove the soiled liquid and drying the interior of the glass. Before committing to this solution it is important to determine whether it's suitable for your home. It will not, however it will restore the energy efficiency that's been lost due to deteriorated seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that's double-glazed may seem like an insignificant problem but it could cause significant damage. It is essential to fix the crack as quickly as you can to avoid further damage. This is especially true if the crack is on the inside of your glass.
Double-paned windows consist 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 ensure that the heat from your home isn't transferred through the glass. The gas also slows the transfer of heat, so that the warm air in your home can move more slowly through the window than it would when there was nothing between the two glass panes.
When the windows are installed, it is crucial that the windows are fitted properly and with a high-quality seal. A qualified glazier should install the windows, since they'll be able to seal them securely to ensure the best insulation. If the seal on the window has failed, the gas inside the panes might leak out and diminish their insulation properties, leading to cracks between two panes.
Incorrect installation can cause double-paned windows crack. The glass expands and contracts at different rates. This could cause stress cracks develop over time, which weakens the glass. If this happens, find a glazier that can replace the damaged glass with one that is better suited to your home.
If you notice a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows, it is important to know that the crack is not repaired by simply filling it with adhesive. This is due to the fact that double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal between the two glass panes, and any cracks could get worse over time, eventually leading to complete breakage.
It is important to keep in mind that handling broken glass can be dangerous and it's best to get a professional glazier who have the appropriate tools to complete the task. They'll also know how to remove the old sealant without causing damage to the glass.
Seals that leak
A triple-pane or double-pane windows is made up of an insulated glass unit (IGU) with three or more sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is joined by a combination of polyurethane and spacers made from aluminum which creates an airtight seal between the windows that prevents moisture from penetrating your home. Over blown double glazing repair , however the seal could be damaged and allow water and draughts to seep into your living spaces.
Most often, this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of the materials used to make your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch slightly in response to variations in temperature and humidity which can lead to IGUs being at risk of bursting. If the seal fails the insulating fill gas can leak and leave your windows with an appearance of fog and draughts, which can reduce the efficiency of your home.
When a window seal fails it can result in condensation or water between the panes that you can't wipe away. In some instances, water can leave a permanent mark left 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 water, fills the gap with Krypton or argon gas, and then seals the window, preventing gas escape. The cost of this service will vary based on the kind of IGU and your area, but the majority of double glazed windows can be repaired within an hour or two.
In addition to replacing your window seals, there are a few other things you can do to improve the energy efficiency of your double-pane windows. Choose a glass and coating that is energy efficient that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's radiation. This will help keep your rooms cooler and more comfortable. It's an inexpensive way to improve the look of your windows. Use caulk around your frame of the window to seal any gaps that may allow cold air in and warm air out. In some cases this is a good alternative to replacing the entire window.