Double Glazed Windows Repairs
As time passes, your double glazed windows will begin to show signs that they need repair. Some of these signs include drafts coming through the window, or misting, and condensation on the windows.
You can solve these problems without replacing your entire window unit, and save money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A stray piece of grass or a baseball that is toss by your children or even an accident at work can lead to a crack in the glass of your double-glazed window. Double glazing is different from single-paned windows since it has an airtight gas seal between the two panes. Therefore, if a broken pane leaves your home with a gap in the frame it is imperative to replace it.
A new window pane can be put in place in a couple of easy steps. First the old glass as well as the wood around it should be removed from the frame. The new glass should be placed into the frame opening and pressed down using silicone caulk.
The gap in the frame is then filled with window putty, which can be spread around using a putty knife, and then smoothed with a second putty knife. Window putty also acts as an adhesive to keep the new pane in place. If your double-glazed window frames have wood moldings, then you might require a chisel in order to remove any varnish or paint from the grooves where the moldings fit.
Wear heavy gloves when working with glass prior to installing windows. Utilizing a utility blade, scrape off any window glass that remains and take measurements of the opening of the new window. For wooden frames subtract 1/16 inch from each measurement to allow for the expansion and contraction of wood. The same procedure should be followed with metal frames to ensure a tight fit of the replacement glass.
It is possible that seals between the glass panes could be damaged during a double-glazed repair. This can result in condensation or a misty gap. A technician can solve this issue by drilling small holes into the frame to remove any moisture. He or she may then pipe hot air into the frame to dry the gap, and seal it again.
It is better to leave the job of repairing double-glazed windows an expert. Special tools are required to remove and install the new glass, therefore the work should only be done by a trained expert to avoid any injuries.
Foggy Windows
The window seal (also called the window gasket) is responsible to seal air between the two glass panes in double glazing and prevents drafts, moisture and noise. But with time, this window seal can perish or shrink. This happens because of natural expansion and contraction when the window experiences various temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
Foggy windows are an indication of a failed airtight seal. This can allow moisture from outside to penetrate and build up within the glass panes, creating an appearance of frosted, wet that is hard to clean.
There are several ways you can fix this issue without removing your double-glazing. One method to solve this problem is to 'defog the window'. This can be accomplished by drilling tiny holes in the glass panes and injecting an cleaning agent. This is only a temporary fix because the solution will only remove the fog, and not replace the inert gases between the glass panes. It also won't restore any energy efficiency that's been lost because of deteriorated seals.
You can also replace your insulated glazing unit (IGU). This will provide you with new, clear and fog-free windows, in addition to recovering any energy efficiency that was lost. This is more expensive than just fixing the IGU, but it's an option that is more durable.
It is possible that the frame of your window or door could be rotting. This may require replacement. This is a very expensive repair however it will give you a fresh beginning and will stop moisture from entering the home. If you do decide to replace the window, it's best to have a professional come out and assess the damage prior to making any repairs. They'll offer you a price and offer advice on your options. They will then assist you to choose a new double glazing that is perfect for your. They will use quality materials and will ensure that your windows are set up correctly so they will last for many years to be.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation occurs when warm air comes in contact with an icy surface. The water vapour in the air to condense, forming droplets of liquid. While condensation that forms on the surface of a double-glazed window is easy to remove, moisture that forms in between glass panes can be more difficult to remove, and could result in the development of mould, or even damage the glass itself.
The moisture that builds up between your windows can be caused by many things, including extreme temperatures, high humidity and broken seals. This problem is more prevalent in older windows than modern windows that have improved sealing technology.
It is important to note that although the development of condensation on the glass of your window should not be ignored, this can be easily addressed without the need to replace the entire unit. In many cases this problem, it is caused by an issue with the vacuum or gas seal which is found between the outer and inner frames of your windows.
A professional can inspect your window to determine if the seals require repairs or replaced. If the seals are replaced, this will help to restore your windows' ability to insulate cold and heat, resulting in lower energy bills.
A professional can use a drill to cut holes in the inside and outward windows to eliminate the moisture that has built up within. It could take anywhere from only a few minutes up to several days to eliminate all moisture. After this is completed the window can be re-sealed and fitted with vents to allow the windows to naturally expel air and moisture.
It is important to make sure that your windows are properly maintained and sealed to avoid this problem. This can be accomplished by hiring a professional to conduct regular maintenance for your double-glazing. This will ensure that any issues are caught early and can be fixed before they become more serious, assisting to extend the lifespan of your double-glazed windows as well as lessening the need for replacements.
Damaged Frames
Sometimes the frames of double glazing can be damaged and require repair. These will need the expertise of a professional. The majority of these types of repairs will be cheaper than replacing windows. They are also more energy efficient.
One of the most common problems is when water gets into the frame of a double-glazed unit and creates condensation. This happens when the rubber seal which keeps the insulating gap free of water deteriorates and tiny holes begin to appear. This can be a result of a variety of causes, most commonly the seals being worn down or some water getting trapped between the panes.
The first step when you spot this issue is to contact the company you bought your double glazing from. They will examine the issue and, if it is covered under warranty, they will arrange to have the unit replaced for you.
This process can take a while, depending on the amount of activity at the company. It is essential to find out everything you can about the business as well as the installers and services prior to signing a contract. This will allow you to avoid any issues later on and to make sure that your repairs are done correctly.
double glazing window repairs can repair gaskets that have shrunk or broken to stop moisture and condensation from forming between the glass panes. This is a less expensive alternative to installing double glazing windows which can cost up to thousands of pounds. It's also more sustainable and will help you to save money on your energy costs.
In certain cases, the window frame might require replacement completely. This could be because of damage or if the windows are old and not energy efficient anymore. If the window is beyond repair, it's best to replace it with a similar model. This will increase the energy efficiency of your house and avoid future issues with leaks and condensation.