Double Glazed Window Repair
Double-glazed windows can help you save money at your home. However, they may be prone to a variety of issues over time.
Misting is caused when the gap between the panes lets moisture in. If left untreated, this could lead to dampness or even mould.
To resolve this issue you can try lubricating handles, hinges and mechanisms to see if this can help. If this does not work, it might be time to contact a professional.
Condensation
Condensation is unsightly, but it could also be an indication that the rubber seal in between the double-glazed windows in your home is getting weaker. When this occurs, water vapour from within the house could seep in through the cracks in the insulating glass and cause damage to the window. The glass could then begin to become cloudy, and it could also cause rot to wooden frames surrounding them.
Luckily this is a problem that can be repaired. To fix it, the technician must make small holes into the outside of the pane. Then they'll wash the windows from the inside and then use an anti-fog coat to rid them of any moisture that might be remaining. It can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days for the window to completely dry out. Once it does then, the contractor will reseal the window or fit vents that allow air to flow through the windows.
Open the window to let some fresh air in. This will prevent excess humidity from building up and will help to stop condensation from forming on windows in the future. If this method doesn't work and your windows start to look hazy, you may need to seek out an expert.
If the window is intact and not damaged you might be able to repair it with the replacement of just one pane. This is less expensive than a complete replacement and can be accomplished relatively quickly if the issue is detected in time.
However should the seals have failed completely, or a large portion of the window has been smashed and cracked, it is likely that the entire unit will need to be replaced. It is best to replace double-glazed windows at the start, rather than having them repaired multiple times. This will save money over time and make your office or home as efficient and warm as possible.
Draughts
Double glazing is designed for energy savings. It consists of two pieces of glass that have an inert gas, or spacer between them. This creates a seal which keeps warm air in and cold air out. If you notice condensation or draughts, it could be because your seals are failing and need to replaced. Look for damp or mould patches on the frames, sills and surrounding wood.
If you notice that your windows are difficult to open or are sagging the issue could be due to a change in temperature which has caused the frame to shrink or expand little. This issue can be resolved by wiping the mechanism, hinges or handles with cold water. Broken locks and handles could also be a security threat and should be fixed whenever possible.
The mist that forms between your window panes could be a serious issue that could compromise your home's thermal efficiency. It can also cause condensation, which can lead to mould or damp.
Draught excluder kits are a quick solution to fix a frequent issue with double glazing. They can be bought from a variety of DIY retailers and include brushes, foam strips and adhesives that can be positioned in the gap to stop the wind from blowing through. You can also apply silicone sealant gaps, which can help to reduce draughts, especially during the winter months.
Although it is possible to repair double-glazed windows yourself however, it's often simpler and less expensive to leave the work to experts. It's also more secure and gives you satisfaction of knowing that the job was done properly and to your satisfaction. If double glazed window repair need to make repairs to a damaged sash or add draught proofing contact us today to get advice and a free quotation.
Smudging
If your double glazed windows are beginning to show streaks of smudges which just don't seem to disappear, then you may be able to remove them easily using a non-abrasive cleansing solution. Products like vinegar, lemon juice, or rubbing alcohol can be used to get rid of the smudges off your windows and make them look new and clean. You can also purchase specialist glass cleaners that are more powerful than the ones you normally use at home, and can make short work of even the most difficult of stained areas.
Another issue with double glazed windows is that they can begin to get smudgey between the panes of glass. A leak in the seal can lead to fog between windows. If not treated, this can lead to damp and mould in the building. Double-glazed window repair firms can resolve the issue and help restore your home's thermal efficiency.
The misty windows are an indication that there could be an issue with the seals, however this is often fixed without the need to replace the whole window unit. This can be accomplished by drilling small holes in the window frame and inserting a humidifier to suck up the moisture.
However, if condensation between the windows is a regular issue then it's probably recommended to contact an expert to do the job correctly and ensure that the seals are intact. This will also help prevent the build-up of mould and damp within the property in the future.
It is possible to remove the smudges in between the glass panes in a double-glazed window, but it isn't simple. The window must be taken apart and then resealing the window isn't feasible or practical especially when the glass in one of the panes has shattered. An alternative is to use a caulking product available at the majority of hardware stores and can be used to fill in the cracks between the panes of glass to restore the seal and preventing windows from fogging.
Broken Seals
The window seals on double- or triple-glazed windows keep heat as well as moisture out. They are the only thing that keeps condensation between the panes of glass. A broken window seal could mean that water could get into the house, potentially leading to mold and mildew issues.
Seals are made from rubber and may wear out or break down over time because of extreme weather conditions and aging. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause seals to expand or contract, which can lead to their breaking. A damaged window seal could cause your windows to appear misty or foggy.
There are a variety of options for fixing a double-paned window that has damaged seal. One option is to simply repair the sealant around the edges of the IGU, which can be done as a DIY project for those with the appropriate tools and experience. The IGU can be replaced, however this is a more complex project that requires the disassembly of the window frame as well as the removal of the old IGU. This task should be left to the experts who have previous experience in this field.
Another alternative is to have the window sealed, which can be done by a professional in about an hour. This process involves defogging your window, filling the gap with argon or krypton gas and resealing the edges of the frame. This is an excellent option for those who are looking for an easy, cost-effective and quick fix for their double-paned windows with failing seals.
To avoid future issues, make sure that your windows are installed by a reputable firm and that they come with a warranty. You should also check your windows each year to make sure that the seals are in good shape. This will allow you to identify early signs of discoloration or deterioration of the sealant.