Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows become difficult to open, or are showing signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. In many instances, this can be done without having to replace the entire window unit.
Attempting to fix your own double glazing will require specialized tools, and is normally better left to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation of double glazing isn't just annoying, but it also means warm air is leaving your home. This is usually a indication of a damaged seal or deterioration. If this is the case, it's best to replace the entire window.
In certain cases you may be capable of using a hairdryer (from an appropriate distance) to eliminate the moisture between the glass panes. This is a good temporary fix, but it's worth keeping in mind that you should seek out professional assistance whenever you can, as the longer this issue continues and the longer it lasts, the more damage it can cause to your double glazing and potentially to your health as well.
If the condensation is just in a small area of your window frame, you can usually get rid of it by wiping it off quickly and often. If you notice condensation on a larger area of the window frame, it could mean that the seal is damaged and the windows are less thermally efficient.
Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of factors, but it's typically down to excessive humidity and/or poor ventilation in the home. Double-glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than single pane windows since humidity is able to form water droplets on cold surfaces. If repairing double glazing or bathroom are particularly humid, you might need to install a vent to lower the humidity levels.
If your windows remain under warranty, you can contact their installer to explain the issue and ask them to resolve it. They may be able simply to replace the unit, or they may need to install one-way vents in order to stop future condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double-glazed windows, since you'll save time and money.
Foggy Glass
Windows that are smoky can be a sign of a failed seal in double-pane windows. Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes, with a space between them, and this space is filled with energy-efficient gases such as argon or krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal fails, moisture may seep through and cause fog. Foggy windows are not only visually unattractive, they can also reduce the efficiency of your home.
Many homeowners choose to hire an expert to repair their windows rather than replace their windows. Before making an offer an expert in glass will help determine if your windows are repairable. If they need to be replaced, a glass professional can provide you with top-quality replacements that aren't susceptible to fogging.
Another common problem with double glazing that people face is the windows or doors becoming difficult to open or close. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or an alteration in the structure of the frame itself. Contact the company that sold you the double glazing if you discover it difficult to open. Most companies offer warranties on their products that last for an agreed period of time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the problem with your current provider, it might be time to change providers. Always request an official written confirmation of your complaint, along with any agreements made and the dates. If you have to change providers, this will make it much easier.
Defogging is one method that can be used to fix foggy windows. It involves drilling holes in the glass, injecting a cleaning solution, removing any soiled liquid and drying the interior. This is a relatively new method and is worth a second look to determine whether it's appropriate for your home prior to committing to it. It won't, however, restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due to the deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a window that's double-glazed may seem like an insignificant problem, but can cause serious damage. It is important to repair the crack as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. This is especially true when the crack is located in the interior of your glass.
Double-pane windows comprise two glass panes connected with a space in between which is filled with an inert gas like argon or Krypton. This is done to stop heat from your house from transferring through the glass. The gas slows down the heat transfer, which means that the warm air from your home can travel through the window more slowly than if there were no obstructions between the panes of the glass.
When installing, it is essential that the windows are installed properly and with a top-quality seal. The windows should be installed by a glazier who is qualified, who will be able to fit the glass panes with a tight seal to ensure they are well-insulated and as efficient as they can be. If the window seal is not working, it could cause the gas in the panes to leak out which reduces their insulation and causing cracks between the two glass panes.
Another reason that causes broken double-pane windows is due to poor installation, which may result in the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This can lead to stress cracks that appear over time and weaken the glass. If this happens, you should locate a glazier to replace the damaged glass with one that is more appropriate for your home.
If you discover a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows it is crucial to understand that the crack cannot be repaired by simply filling it with adhesive. Double-paned windows rely on an elongated seal between the two panes and any cracks will only worsen as time passes.
It is important to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to contact an expert who has the proper tools to do the job. They'll also be able remove the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage.
Leaking Seals
A double or triple-pane window is made up of an insulated glass unit (IGU) comprising three or more sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is joined by an amalgamation of polyurethane and spacers made from aluminum, which forms an airtight seal between the windows that prevents moisture from penetrating your home. Over time the seal could break down and allow water to get in.
Most often this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of the materials used to create your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch slightly with changes in temperature and humidity which can lead to IGUs being at risk of bursting. When the seal breaks the fill-gas that is insulating can leak, leaving your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts, which can reduce the efficiency of your home.
When a window seal fails it can lead to water or condensation between the panes, which you are unable to remove. In some cases the water may leave a permanent stain on the glass of your window.
Typically, you can correct the issue by having your windows professionally cleaned and sealed. This process requires professional equipment that removes water, fills the gap with Krypton or argon gas, and then seals the window without letting gas escape. The price of this service may differ based on the type of IGU you have and the location, but the majority of double-glazed windows can be repaired in an hour or two.
In addition to replacing your window seals, there are a few other options you can take to improve the efficiency of double-pane windows. Select energy-efficient coatings and glass that reflect rather than absorb the sun's rays. This will make your home cooler, more comfortable and improve the appearance of your windows. Finally, apply caulk or weatherstripping around the frame of your window to prevent gaps that may allow cold air into your home and warm air to escape. This is a cost-effective option than replacing the entire window.