Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double glazing can develop several faults as time passes. This could include damaged seals between the panes, condensation, and even draughts.
The good news is that many of them can be fixed without the need to replace the entire window frame. A double glazing repair company that is well-established can help you save money.
Broken Panes
Double pane windows have two glass panes with a layer of gas in between them. Together, the gas and double panes create an efficient insulation. This helps you to use less energy in order to regulate temperatures at home, and reduce the cost of electricity. They also help reduce outside noise and protect your furniture, carpets as well as wall art and photographs from sun damage. However, if one of the windows gets damaged or broken your home won't be as comfortable and your energy costs could rise. You can fix this yourself.
Remove a broken window pane from the double-glazed window by taking off the sash. Wear gloves and have a large bag of rubbish close by to collect the glass fragments, which can break if handled. You'll need a deglazing device or putty blade to cut the sealant around the window pane and on the frame. Once the frame is cut, it is now possible to attach the replacement glass.
It's important to note that you cannot seal a double-pane window without replacing both of the panes because the efficiency of the window will be diminished. It is important to know that the glass can be repaired. However, it's best to contact a professional who will be experienced in the process of disassembling the window and replace the glass panes.
Broken Seals
The window seals prevent outside air from entering and the gas argon, used to insulate your home from escape. However, as time passes the seal's flexibility can wear down or even break. It's important to look for signs of a damaged seal and call in experts to ensure your energy efficiency stays at its highest level.
Fog in double- and triple-paned windows is the most obvious indication of a damaged window seal. This is due to a break in the edge seal which secures each glass pane within the IGU (insulated glazing unit).
When humid air enters your windows, it creates condensation and the fog you can see. It may seem like a minor issue however it is a sign that your IGU does not provide its full insulation value. Furthermore the inert gas that was contained within the window is now flowing out, thereby reducing your window's energy-saving abilities.
A professional window technician will look over your IGU and repair edges that have been damaged. This is a quick and affordable solution, however it's only temporary. If you want to stop the fog from coming back, you will need to seal your windows frequently.
There are numerous other options to increase the insulation capabilities of your window. Add caulk around the window frame to stop drafts and hot or cold air from outside. Painting your windows in a light color can help reflect the heat of the sun and keep your house cooler.
Ultimately, if your windows are more than 15 years old and don't show any indications of abrasions or breaking replacement is the most efficient method to increase your home's insulation. Newer windows are better at keeping heat or cool air inside and out. This means that you will save money by not having to use your cooling or heating system as often. A professional window contractor can recommend the best replacement windows for your home.
Condensation Between the Panes
Modern double-glazed windows are prone to condensation on the glass. It typically occurs when a double-glazed window fails to provide a tight seal and the interior air temperature is warmer than the outside air. This can cause moisture to build up between the glass panes, creating a milky appearance or fogging. This can be very annoying and there are some quick fixes. However, the most effective solution is to engage an expert who will make holes in the glass's outer layer and clean the windows within and install one way air vents.
A majority of homeowners notice condensation on the inside of their double-glazed windows at one time, especially following changes like painting or plastering where the humidity is high and the window surface gets damp. However, it's less common to see condensation on the windows and if it does it's usually an indication that something is not right with the insulated window unit.
The issue could be caused by a broken seal, but it is often a sign the spacer bar in between the two panes is not functioning properly. The bars that are used to fill the space are filled with desiccant, a material that is highly absorbent and sucks up any moisture that is trapped in the air gap between the windows. However, it can become filled to capacity if there is the slightest imperfection in the window seal, and once it is full, condensation will begin to form on the inside of the windows.
Moisture that remains on windows or other surfaces could cause mould and rot growth and is not just unsightly but also bad for your health. If condensation remains on your windows for a prolonged period of time, it could eventually cause leaks and loose windows.
There are a variety of easy methods to combat the condensation between double-glazed windows. The windows should be opened for a few minutes every day to allow air circulation will help to reduce humidity levels and avoid condensation, as will using a dehumidifier. These electrical appliances can be purchased at a reasonable price and are often used in kitchens and bathrooms to eliminate excess moisture.
Draughts
Draughts could be a sign that your double-glazing system isn't functioning correctly. These draughts can be annoying especially in winter. They could also cause your home to lose more heat than it needs to. If you feel a draft or notice a gap, then you're using uPVC window seals are efficient.
If you feel a draft emanating from your window then the seals made of rubber could have failed. The seals are designed to expand when a window is closed, and stop cold air from getting into your home. If they don't do this then it's time to get them repaired.
Another reason for draughts could be that the door or window handles might be broken. They can't close properly and this causes the gaps where draughts come in. It is best to contact a double-glazed window repair service to fix these components.
Over time, a double glazed window will shrink and this makes it more difficult to open and close them. This is usually due to temperature changes causing the frame to expand or shrink. Try wiping the frames with cold, but it is usually best to repair them by a professional.
Misting can also be a sign that the insulating properties of double glazing aren't as good as they should be. This occurs when the seals between glass units begin to break, allowing water to enter the window and cause condensation. If you're experiencing this, you should call in the professionals who will replace the sealed unit and repair the misting.
Here are upvc window repairs of the most commonly used ways double-glazed windows might require repair. It's important that you fix these problems as soon as you can to prevent further damage as well as to reduce the cost of heating. If your double-glazing is still covered by warranty, you should get in contact with the company that installed them to determine if they can assist.