Double Glazed Windows Repairs
As time passes, your double glazed windows will start to exhibit signs that they require repair. Some of these signs include drafts entering the window, or misting and condensation on windows.
These issues can usually be solved without having to replace all window units and it could also save you money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A baseball thrown by your children or a stray piece of sand from your lawnmowers or a mishap at work can cause a crack to form in the double-glazed windows you have. Unlike single-pane windows, double glazing features an airtight seal that protects the gas from being insulated between two panes of glass. If a broken glass pane leaves a gap in your frame, you will need to replace it.
In a couple of easy steps, you can put in the new window pane. First the old glass and the surrounding wood should be removed from the frame. The new pane should then be placed into the frame opening and then pressed into place using silicone caulk.
Window putty is used to fill the gap between the frame and the new pane. It can be applied with a putty knife, and then smoothed with a second one. Window putty is also used as an adhesive, which helps to hold the new window into place. If your double-glazed windows have wood moldings, you might need a chisel to remove any varnish or paint from the grooves where the moldings will fit.
Wear heavy gloves when working with glass before installing a new window. After that, using a utility blade, scrape off any remaining window glazing and take measurements of the opening of the new windowpane. With a wooden frame remove 1/16 of an inch from each measurement to allow expansion and contraction of the wooden frame. Metal frames should be treated the same way to ensure the replacement glass fits perfectly.
It is possible that the seals between glass panes could also fail during repairs that are double-glazed. This can lead to condensation or a mist that forms in the gap. A technician can resolve this issue by drilling small holes in the frame to eliminate any moisture. He or she can then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it and reseal.
It is best to leave the task of fixing double-glazed windows to an expert. Special tools are required to remove and install the new glass, therefore the work should only be performed by a qualified professional to avoid injuries.
Foggy Windows
The window seal (also called the gasket for windows) is responsible to seal air between the two panes of glass in your double glazing and preventing drafts, noise and moisture. Over time, the window seal can shrink or become brittle. This is because of the natural expansion and contraction of the window as it moves through different temperatures and weather conditions all through the year.
Foggy windows can be an indication of a weak airtight seal. This allows humidity from outside to enter and build up between the glass panes resulting in a an appearance of frosted, wet that is difficult to clean.
It is possible to fix the issue without removing double-glazing. One option is to "defog' the window in place by drilling tiny holes and injecting a cleansing solution between the glass panes. This is only a temporary fix since the solution will only eliminate the fog, and not replace the inert gases between the glass panes. It will not bring back the energy efficiency that has been lost because of deteriorated seals.
Another alternative is to replace your IGU, or insulated glass unit (IGU). This will provide you with clean, clear windows, free of fog, and will restore any energy efficiency. This will cost more than just fixing the IGU, but it's a more permanent solution.
It is possible that the frame of your door or window could be decaying. This may require replacement. This is a very expensive repair however, it will give you a new start and prevent more moisture from entering the home. If you do decide to replace the window, it's recommended to hire an expert come out and assess the damage prior to making any repairs. They can give you a quote and advise you on your options. They will then assist you to pick a new double glazing that is suitable for. They will use quality materials and ensure that your windows are put in place correctly so they will last for many years to come.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation occurs when warm air comes in contact with an icy surface. Air vapour is able to condense into and forms liquid droplets. Condensation on windows with double-glazed glass is easily removed. However, the moisture that accumulates between the panes may cause mould to grow or even damage the glass.
The moisture that forms between your windows could be caused by many things such as fluctuating temperatures as well as high humidity and damaged seals. Older windows are more susceptible to this issue than ones that have improved sealing technology.
Although the development of condensation between the window panes is not something you should ignore, it is important to remember that this can be repaired without the need to replace the entire window unit. This problem is usually caused by a leak around the outer or inner frames of the window.
A professional can inspect your window and determine if seals require repair or replaced. If the seals require to be replaced they will restore your windows' ability insulate heat or cold which will result in lower energy bills.
To fix this issue, a specialist can drill holes into the window's outer and inner parts to eliminate the moisture that has built up inside. It can take from just a few hours to a few days for the moisture to completely evaporate out of the window. Once this is done, the window can be sealed and fitted with vents to allow the windows to naturally release air and moisture.
The best way to avoid this issue altogether is by ensuring that your windows are properly sealed and regularly maintained to prevent seals from deteriorating. This can be done by hiring a professional perform regular maintenance services for your double glazing. This will ensure that any issues are identified early and rectified before they become more serious, helping to prolong the lifespan of your double-glazed windows and reduce the need for replacements.
Damaged Frames
Sometimes the frames of double glazing may be damaged and require repair. These repairs will require the expertise of a professional. The majority of repairs are cheaper than replacing the windows. They will also be more energy efficient.
One of the most common problems is when water gets into the frame of a double glazed unit and results in condensation. This happens when the rubber seal which keeps the insulating gap free of water wears out and tiny holes start to form. This can occur due to many reasons. Most commonly the seals wear out or a small amount of water gets trapped between the panes.
If you spot an issue, the first thing you should do is contact the company where you bought your double glazing. They will then investigate the issue and, if it is covered under warranty, they will arrange to replace the unit for you.
It is crucial to remember that this process can take a while, based on how busy the business is. It is crucial to find out everything you can about the business as well as the installers and their services prior to signing the contract. Double Glazing Window Repairs will help you avoid issues later on and ensure that repairs are completed correctly.
A professional can repair the gaskets that have shrunk or broken to stop condensation and moisture from forming between the glass panes. This is a less expensive option than installing double glazing windows which can cost thousands of dollars. It is also more sustainable and can help you reduce your energy costs.
In some instances, the window frame might require replacement completely. This could be because of damage, or because the windows have become outdated and are no longer energy efficient. If the window cannot be repaired, it is recommended to replace it with a unit with a similar style and design. This will improve the energy efficiency of your house and prevent future problems with leaks and condensation.