Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Over time, your double-glazed windows will begin to show signs of needing repair. Some of these signs include drafts coming through the window, or misting and condensation on windows.
These issues can be solved without having to replace your entire window unit and save money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A pebble from a lawnmower, a baseball thrown by your kids or even an accident at work can lead to a crack in the glass of your double-glazed window. Double glazing differs from single-paned windows as it has an airtight gas seal between the two panes. If a glass pane that has been broken creates a gap in your frame, you will have to replace it.
A new window can be installed in a few easy steps. The old glass and wood surrounding it should be removed. The new glass should be positioned in the frame opening, and then pressed into place using silicone caulk.
The frame's gap is then filled with window putty which is spread with a putty knife and smoothed using a second putty knife. Window putty also acts as an adhesive to hold the new pane in place. If the wood moldings on your double-glazed windows have been painted, you will require the chisel to scrape off the paint or varnish.
Before installing a new window ensure you are wearing a pair of gloves that are thick to prevent cuts when working with glass. Then, scrape off any window glass that remains with a utility knife and measure the opening for the new window. For wooden frames subtract 1/16 inch from each measurement in order to account for the expansion and contraction of wood. The same procedure is to be followed for metal frames to ensure a tight fit of the glass replacement.
It is possible that seals in between the glass panes can also become faulty during a double-glazed repair. This could lead to condensation or a mist that forms in the gap. A technician can fix this issue by drilling small holes in the frame to remove any moisture. He or she can then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it, and seal it again.
While you can fix double-glazed windows yourself, it is usually better to let a professional take care of the job. Special tools are required to remove and install the new glass, and the job should only be done by a trained expert to avoid any injuries.
Foggy Windows
The window seal (also called the window gasket) is responsible for sealing air between the two panes of glass in double glazing and prevents drafts, noise and moisture. However, over time, the window seal may lose its effectiveness or shrink. This is due to the natural expansion and contraction of the window as it moves through various temperature and weather conditions throughout the year.
The windows that are stained with a haze indicate that the air-tight seal between the two panes of your window are failing. This can allow humidity from outside air to enter and build up between the glass panes, creating an appearance of frosted, wet that is difficult to wipe clean.
There is a way to fix the problem without having to remove double-glazing. One option is to "defog' the window in place by drilling tiny holes and injecting a cleaning solution between the glass panes. This is only a temporary fix because the solution will only eliminate the fog, and not replace the inert gases between the glass panes. It also won't replace any energy efficiency that has been lost due to deteriorating seals.
You can also replace your insulated glass unit (IGU). This will provide you with new, clear and fog-free windows, while also restoring any lost energy efficiency. This will cost more than simply fixing the IGU, but it is an option that is more durable.
There is also the chance that the frame of your window or door may be rotting and need to be replaced. This is a major repair job and can be very costly, but replacing the rotted frames will give you a new start and stop further moisture from entering your home. It is recommended to hire an expert to evaluate the damage to your window prior to you begin any repairs. They'll be able to offer you a price and offer advice on the options available. They can help you select the best double-glazing system that will fit perfectly. They will make use of high-quality materials and will ensure that your windows are installed correctly so they will last for many years to come.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation is a natural process that happens when warm air comes into contact with an cool surface. Air vapour is able to condense into, forming droplets of liquid. Condensation on glass windows that are double-glazed can be easily wiped away. However, moisture that accumulates between the panes may cause mold to grow or even damage the glass.
The moisture that builds up between your windows can be caused by many things such as fluctuating temperatures, high humidity and broken seals. Older windows are more prone to this problem than ones with improved sealing technology.
It is important to note that although the forming of condensation on the glass of your window should not be overlooked, it can be easily addressed without having to replace the entire unit. This issue is often caused by a leak in the frames that are either on the inside or outside of the window.
double glazing window repairs trained professional will inspect your windows and determine whether the seals are damaged or require to be replaced. If the seals require to be replaced they will make your windows more efficient in to insulate cold or heat and result in lower energy costs.
A specialist can employ a drill to cut holes in the inside and outside windows to get rid of the moisture that has built up inside. It could take anywhere from a few minutes to several days to eliminate all moisture. When the window is dry it can be sealed with vents that allow air and moisture to go away naturally.
The best way to avoid this problem entirely is to ensure that your windows are properly sealed and regularly maintained to stop the seals from degrading. This can be accomplished by enlisting a professional to carry out regular maintenance for your double-glazing. This will allow you to spot any issues early and address them before they get any worse, extending the lifespan of double-glazed windows.
Frames damaged
Sometimes the frames of double-glazing may develop issues that need to be repaired. Repairs to these frames will require the expertise of a qualified professional. Most of these types are cheaper than replacing the window units. They will also be more energy efficient.
One of the most common issues is when water seeps into the frame of a double-glazed unit and creates condensation. This is caused when the seal that keeps the insulating gap free of water wears out and tiny holes begin to appear. This can happen for a number of reasons. Most often, the seals are worn out or a tiny amount of water gets trapped between the panes.
The first thing to do when you spot this issue is to contact the firm you purchased your double-glazed unit from. They will investigate the issue and, if it is covered under warranty, they will arrange to replace the unit for you.
The process could take some time, depending on the amount of activity at the company. Therefore, it's a good idea to try and find out as many details about the company and the installers you can before signing an agreement with them. This will allow you to avoid any problems later on and to make sure that your repairs are done correctly.
A professional can replace gasket seals that have shrunk and cracked to stop moisture and condensation forming between the panes of glass. This can be much cheaper than buying and installing new double-glazing windows that can cost thousands of pounds. This is better for the environment, and will save you money on energy bills.
In some cases the window frame might need to be completely replaced. This could be due to damage or if the windows are old and are no longer energy efficient. If the window is not able to be repaired, it's best that it be replaced with a unit that is similar to the design. This will improve the energy efficiency of your home and will prevent any future issues with leaks and condensation.