Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs may be needed if your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or show signs condensation. In many instances, this can be done without needing to replace the entire window unit.
It is best to leave the installation of double glazing to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in double-glazed windows isn't just annoying, but it also means warm air is being emitted from your home. It's generally a sign that the seal has been damaged or is deteriorating. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to have the entire window replaced.
It is possible in some instances to use a hairdryer in some instances to remove the moisture between the glass panes (from some distance). This is a great temporary solution, but it's also worth keeping in mind that you should seek professional help whenever you can, as the longer this issue continues and the longer it lasts, the more damage it will cause to your double glazing and possibly to your health too.
If the condensation is limited to a tiny portion of the window frame, you can generally remove it by wiping it away regularly and quickly. However, if you see condensation that extends across the entire frame of the window, it could indicate that the seal has been damaged and that the windows are no longer as efficient in terms of thermal efficiency than they ought to be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of factors however, it's usually due to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation in the house. Humidity can easily form water droplets on cold surfaces, which is why your double glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. If your kitchen or bathroom are particularly humid, you might need to install a vent to lower the humidity levels.
If your windows remain within the warranty period and you want to contact the company that fitted windows to discuss the issue and request that they fix the issue for you. They could be able to replace the unit, or they might need to fit one-way air vents to prevent 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 panes of glass with a gap in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gases like argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal is damaged, moisture can seep in and result in fog. Foggy windows can make your home less efficient and unattractive.
Many homeowners prefer to hire an expert for window repair instead of replacing their windows. A glass specialist will be able to determine if the windows can be fixed before making an offer. If they must be replaced they'll be able to supply you with a high-quality replacement that isn't prone to foggy glass.
Double glazing can also cause issues when it comes to the opening and closing of doors or windows. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or changes in the structure of the frame itself. If you notice that your double glazing is difficult to open, the first step is to speak to the business you purchased it from. Most companies offer warranties on their products that last for a set period of time. Some even offer lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the issue with your supplier it could be the right the time to change suppliers. Always request written confirmation that your complaint was received along with any agreements reached to address the issue and when these dates are. If you have to change providers this will make it easier.
Defogging is one method that can be used to repair foggy windows. This involves drilling holes into the glass, injecting a cleaning solution, removing any soiled liquid and drying the inside. Before committing to this solution it is essential to think about whether it's suitable for your home. It can't however, restore the energy efficiency that's been lost due to deteriorated seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that is double-glazed could appear to be something minor but it could cause significant damage. It's crucial to have the crack repaired as soon as you can to prevent further damage, particularly if it's located on the inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows consist of two panes of glass which are joined together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gases like argon and krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home doesn't get transferred through the glass. The gas slows the heat transfer, so the warm air from your home can travel through the window more slowly than if there were no obstructions between the panes of glass.
During installation, it's important that the windows are installed properly and with a high-quality seal. The windows must be installed by a qualified glazier, who will be able to install the glass panes with a secure seal to ensure that they are well-insulated and as efficient as they can be. If the seal on the window has failed then the gas in the panes could leak out and reduce their insulation properties, leading to cracks between two panes.
Another reason that causes cracked double-pane windows can be due to poor installation, which can result in the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This could cause stress cracks appear over time, weakening the glass. If this happens, you should seek out a glazier who can replace the broken glass with one that is better suited to your home.
If you find a small crack in your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to realize that the crack is not repaired by filling it in with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows depend on an air-tight seal between the two panes of glass and any cracks could get worse in time, leading eventually to complete breakage.
It is crucial to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it's recommended to contact an expert with the right equipment to do the job. They will also be able to take the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage.
Leaking Seals
The IGU is comprised of two or three parallel sheets annealed glass or tempered. The IGU is fixed by a combination aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal, which prevents water from entering your home. As time passes the seal may be damaged, allowing the draughts and water to penetrate into your living spaces.
This is usually caused by the natural expansion or contraction of the materials that were used to create your window. The sealant, either polyurethane or silicone, may expand and contract slightly in response to changes in humidity and temperature, putting the IGU at the risk of deteriorating. When the seal is damaged the insulative fill gas can escape, leaving your windows with a hazy appearance and draughts which reduce the efficiency of your house.
If a window seal fails, it can also lead to water or condensation between the panes that you can't clean away. In some instances, water can leave a permanent mark on the window glass.
In general, you can fix this problem by having your window professionally defogged. This process requires specialized equipment to eliminate moisture, refill the void with argon, or Krypton gas, then reseal without letting the gas escape again. The cost will vary based on the location you are in and the type of IGU you have, however, most double-glazed windows repair can be completed in an hour or less.
In addition to changing your window seals There are a few other options you can take to improve the efficiency of your double-pane windows. Choose double glazing repairs -efficient coatings and glazing that reflect rather than absorb the sun's radiation. This will make your home cooler, more comfortable and improve the appearance of your windows. Also, you can use caulk or weatherstripping around the frame of your window to prevent gaps that could allow cold air into your home and warm air out. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.