Double Glazed Window Repairs
Over time, double glazing may develop a range of issues. This could include damaged seals, condensation between the panes or even draughts.
It's good to know that the majority of these problems can be resolved without needing to replace the window frame. A double glazing repair business established and well-established will save you money.
Broken Panes
Double pane windows have two glass panes, with a layer of gas in between them. The gas and the double panes make your window a powerful insulation, which allows you to make use of less energy to regulate the temperature of your home, thus lowering your power bills. They can reduce noise from outside, and also protect furniture and artwork from sun damage. If one of your windows is cracked or broken you'll notice your home is less comfortable and your energy bill may increase. The good news is that you can solve this issue yourself.
Remove a broken window pane from a double-glazed window by removing the sash. Before beginning taking the window off, you must wear gloves and have an ample garbage bag nearby for the glass pieces which could break if handled. You'll need a deglazing tool or putty blade to cut through the sealant around the window pane and on the frame. Once the frame is cut, you can put on the glass replacement.
It is important to note that double-pane windows cannot be resealed without replacing the panes. Otherwise the efficiency of the window will be compromised. It's important to remember that the glass can be repaired, but it's best to get in touch with an expert as they are experienced with the process of removing the window and reinstalling the glass panes.
Broken Seals
The window seals block outside air from entering and argon, which is used to keep your home insulated, from escaping. As time passes the seal may become brittle or even break. Keep an eye on any signs of a broken seal and call the experts in the event that you spot any.
The most obvious sign that window seals are failing is the development of fog between your triple or double-pane windows. This is due to an issue with the edge seal that holds each glass pane within the IGU (insulated glazing unit).
If humid air is able to get into your windows, it causes condensation and the fog is visible. It may appear to be a minor problem, but it indicates that your IGU does not provide its full insulation capacity. In addition, any inert gases that were contained within the window are now leaking out. This also reduces your window's ability to conserve energy.
A window technician with experience will examine your IGU and reseal edges that have been damaged. This is a quick and affordable solution, however it's only effective for a short time. If you want to prevent the fog from recurring it is necessary to seal your windows frequently.
There are many other ways to improve the insulating properties of your window. Add caulk around the window frame to block drafts and hot or cold air from the outside. Painting your windows a light colour can also help reflect the heat of the sun and keep your house cooler.
If your windows are more than 15-20 years old and aren't showing any signs of damage or breakage replacement is the most efficient method to increase your home's insulation. Modern windows are better at keeping heat or cool air out and in. This means you can save money by not using your heating or cooling system as often. A professional window installer can help you choose the most effective replacements for your home.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation on the window pane is a common problem that can affect modern double glazed windows. It typically occurs when a double-glazed window isn't able to create a secure seal and the interior air temperature is higher than the outside air. This can cause moisture between the glass panes to build up creating the appearance of fogging or milkiness. This can be very irritating and even though there are some simple solutions available, the best solution is to engage professionals to drill holes in the outer pane. Clean the windows from inside and install air vents that are one-way to prevent condensation from occurring in the future.
Most homeowners will experience condensation on the inside their double-glazed windows at some time, especially following changes such as painting or plastering, where the humidity is high and the surface becomes damp. However, it is uncommon to find condensation between the windows, and if it does it's usually an indication of something wrong with the window unit that is insulated.
The issue could be caused by a broken seal, however it is often a sign the spacer bar that is between the two panes is not functioning properly. The spacer bars are filled with desiccant, an material that is highly absorbent and sucks up any moisture that is trapped in the 'air gap' between the windows. This could become saturated if the window seal isn't perfect. Once it's full of desiccant and condensation begins to form on the inside.
If moisture is allowed to remain on windows or other surfaces could lead to rot and mould growth and is not just unattractive, but also detrimental to your health. If the condensation remains on your windows for a prolonged period of time, it could eventually lead to leaks and loose windows.
There are several easy ways to deal with condensation that forms between double-glazed windows. Dehumidifiers and opening windows for a few moments each day will reduce humidity and stop condensation. These appliances are affordable priced and are frequently employed in kitchens and bathrooms to eliminate excess moisture.
Draughts
Draughts could be a sign that your double-glazing system isn't working correctly. They can be hard to live with, especially in the winter months and can cause your home to lose heat at a greater rate than it needs to. If you feel a draft or see a gap, then your uPVC window seals are efficient.
If you feel a draft emanating from your window then the rubber seals may have failed. Seals are designed to compress and prevent cold air from entering your home when the window is closed. If they're not performing this function, then it is time to have them replaced.
Broken handles on windows and doors can cause draughts. They aren't closing properly and this causes the gaps that let draughts in. If this is the case, it is recommended to call an expert company that specializes in double glazed window repairs as they will be capable of fixing these parts for you.
Over time, a double glazed window will shrink and make it difficult to open and close them. upvc window repairs near me can expand or shrink due to temperature fluctuations. You can try wiping the frames with cold water to see if it can help but in the majority of instances, it's best to have them repaired by an expert.
Misting can also be an indication that the insulating properties of double glazing aren't as effective as they could be. This happens when the seals between the glass units start to break, allowing moisture into the window to create condensation. If you're experiencing this, you should call in the professionals who can replace the sealed unit, and also fix the misting.
These are only a few of the ways your double-glazed windows could require repairs. If you're experiencing any of these problems, it's crucial to have them repaired quickly to avoid further damage and lower the cost of heating your home. If your double-glazing system is covered by warranty, it's worth getting in contact with the company that installed them to see if they can assist.