Double Glazed Windows Repairs
As time passes, your double glazed windows will begin to show signs that they need repair. These might include a draught entering the window, misting, condensation on the windows, and even broken glass.
double glazing repairs can often be solved without the need to replace the entire window unit. It could also save you money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A baseball thrown by your kids or a stray piece of sand from your lawnmower or a mishap at the office could cause a crack to form in your double-glazed windows. Double glazing is different from single-paned windows because it has an airtight gas seal between the two panes. If a broken glass pane creates a gap in your frame, you'll have to replace it.
In a few easy steps, you can install an entirely new window pane. First the old glass as well as the surrounding wood should be removed from the frame. Next, the new pane is positioned in the opening of the frame and then pressed into position with silicone caulk.
Window putty is used to cover the gap between the frame and the new pane. It can be applied using a putty knife, and then smoothed using a second one. Window putty can also serve as an adhesive, which helps to hold the new pane in place. If your double-glazed window frames have wood moldings, then you might require a chisel in order to remove any varnish and paint from the grooves in which the moldings fit.
Before installing a new window, ensure that you have a pair of heavy gloves to avoid cutting yourself when working with glass. Utilizing a utility blade, scrape off any remaining window glazing and determine the opening of the new windowpane. With a wooden frame reduce 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 that the replacement glass fits comfortably.
In the course of repairing a double-glazed window, it is also possible that seals between the glass panes could be damaged. This can lead to condensation or mist forming in the gap. This issue can be fixed by a technician drilling small holes in the frame. He or she may then pipe in hot air to dry the gap, and seal it up again.
Although you can repair double-glazed windows on your own, it is usually best to hire professionals handle the job. Special tools are needed to take out and install the new glass, and the job should only be handled by a certified professional to avoid injuries.
Foggy Windows
The window seal (also called the gasket for windows) is responsible for sealing air between the two glass panes in your double glazing and preventing drafts, noise and moisture. But over time, this window seal may lose its effectiveness or shrink. This is due to the natural expansion and contraction of the window as it moves through different temperatures and weather conditions all through 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 will allow moisture from the outside to get in and condense in between the glass panes, giving a frosted, wet appearance that is difficult to clean.
There are several ways you can fix this problem without removing the double glazing. One option is to 'defog the window by drilling tiny holes and injecting a cleansing solution between the glass panes. However, this is only a temporary fix since the solution only eliminates the fog, but it does not replace the inert gas between the glass and restore energy efficiency that may be lost due to degrading seals.
Another alternative is to replace the glass with an insulated glass unit (IGU). This will result in new, clear and clear windows, in addition to returning any energy efficiency lost. This is more expensive than just fixing the IGU, but it is a more permanent solution.
It is possible that the frame of your window or door could be decaying. This could need replacement. This is a very expensive repair however it will give you a new start and stop more moisture from entering the home. If you decide to replace your 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 can assist you in choosing a new double-glazing that is perfect for your. They will then install your windows correctly and use quality materials.
Condensation Between the Panes
Condensation is a natural phenomenon that happens when warm air comes in contact with an cool surface. This causes the water vapour in the air to condense, forming droplets of liquid. Condensation that forms on a double-glazed glass window is easily removed. However, the moisture that is trapped between the panes may cause mould to grow or even damage the glass.
The moisture that builds up between the windows in your home could be caused by a variety of issues, including temperature variations as well as high humidity levels and damaged seals. Older windows are more vulnerable to this issue than ones with improved sealing technology.
It is important to remember that although the forming of condensation on the glass of your window must not be ignored, this can easily be fixed without the need 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.
A professional can examine your window and determine if the seals require repair or replaced. If the seals must be replaced it will improve your windows' capacity to for insulation from cold or heat, resulting lower energy costs.
A professional can use a drill to create holes in both the interior and outside windows to get rid of the moisture that has accumulated within. This can take anywhere from one to three days for the moisture to completely evaporate out of the window. Once this is done, the window can be re-sealed and fitted with vents to let the windows naturally expel air and moisture.
The best way to avoid this problem completely is to ensure that your windows are properly sealed and regularly maintained to prevent seals from breaking down. This can be achieved by hiring a professional who will carry out regular maintenance on your double glazing. This will help you spot any issues early and address them before they get worse, extending the lifespan of double-glazed windows.
Frames that are damaged
Sometimes, the frames of double glazing can be damaged and require repair. This will require the expertise of a professional. Most of these types are less expensive than having to replace windows. They will also be much more efficient in terms of energy consumption.
One of the most common issues is when water seeps into the frame of a double glazed unit and causes condensation. This happens when the seal made of rubber that keeps the insulating gap clear of water breaks down and tiny holes begin to appear. This can be a result of a variety of reasons, most commonly the seals being worn down or the slightest amount of water getting trapped between the panes.
If you notice an issue the first thing you need to do is contact the business from which you bought your double glazing. They will examine the issue and, if the problem is covered under warranty, they'll arrange to have the unit replaced for you.
The process could take some time, depending on the level of activity at the company. Therefore, it is recommended to research and find out as as much information about the business and the installers as you can before you sign an agreement with them. This will allow you to avoid problems later and make sure that repairs are completed correctly.
A specialist can repair gasket seals that have shrunk and broken to stop moisture and condensation forming between the panes of glass. This is a cheaper alternative to installing double-glazed windows that can cost up to thousands of dollars. This is better for the environment and you'll save money on energy bills.
In some instances, the frame of the window may need to be completely replaced. It could be due to damage or because the windows are outdated and not energy efficient. If the window can't be repaired, it's best that it be replaced with a replacement with a similar design. This will increase the energy efficiency of your home and avoid any future issues with condensation or leaks.