Double Glazing Repairs
Repairs might be required if your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or exhibit signs of condensation. In most instances, this can be done without needing to replace the entire window unit.
Doing the repair yourself for double glazing requires special tools, so this is best left to an expert.
Condensation
Condensation in your double glazing isn't just an inconvenience it could also mean that warm air is leaving your home. It's usually a sign that the seal has broken or is becoming damaged. If this is the case, it's usually best to have the entire window replaced.
In some instances you might be capable of using a hairdryer (from an appropriate distance) to evaporate the moisture that is trapped between the glass panes. This is a quick solution, but it's also important to remember that you should seek out professional assistance as soon as possible as the longer this issue continues and the longer it lasts, the more damage it could cause to the double glazing, and possibly to your health.
If the condensation is limited to a small portion of your window frame, it is usually possible to eliminate it by wiping it away regularly and quickly. However, if you notice condensation in larger areas of the window, this could mean that the seal has been damaged and windows are less efficient thermally than they need to be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of factors but is usually due to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation in the home. The humidity can easily form droplets of water on surfaces that are cold and that's why double glazed windows are more likely to exhibit condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. Install a vent in your kitchen or bathroom if it is particularly humid.
If your windows remain in the warranty period, you can contact the company that installed them to describe the issue and request that they fix the issue for you. They might be able to replace the window or they might need to fit one-way air vents to stop future condensation. This is a better solution than replacing your double-glazed windows, because you'll save time and money.
Foggy Glass
The presence of fog in windows is a sign of a failed seal in double-pane windows. Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes with a gap in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gases like Krypton or argon. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. However, if the seal fails, water can seep in and cause fog. Foggy windows aren't only ugly, but they could also make your home less efficient in energy use.
Many homeowners choose to hire an expert to repair their windows rather than replace their windows. A glass specialist will be able to help determine if the windows are able to be fixed prior to making a recommendation. If they require to be replaced, a glass specialist will be able to provide high-quality replacements that are not likely to get clogged.
Another issue with double glazing that people face is that the doors or windows becoming difficult to open or close. This can be due to extreme weather conditions or an alteration in the structure of the frame. If you find that your double-glazed is difficult to open, the first step is to talk to the business you purchased it from. Many companies offer warranties on their products that last for a an agreed period of time. Some even offer lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the problem with your current provider, it might be time to change providers. You should always ask for written confirmation that your complaint has been acknowledged, plus any agreements made to fix it and when these dates will be. If you are required to change providers this will be easier.
Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed by defogging. It's a process which involves drilling holes into the window, injecting cleaning solution and then removing the soiled liquid, and drying the inside of the glass. This is a relatively new solution, and it's worth considering whether it's appropriate for your home before you commit to it. It can't however, restore the energy efficiency that's been lost due deterioration of seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed glass may seem like a minor problem, but it can actually cause a lot of damage. It is essential to fix the crack as quickly as possible to prevent further damage. This is especially important in the case of cracks in the interior of your glass.
Double-pane windows comprise two glass panes connected with a space between that is filled with an inert gas, like argon or Krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home isn't transferred through the glass. The gas slows heat transfer, meaning 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.
It is crucial that windows are fitted correctly and have a solid seal. The windows should be installed by a licensed glazier who can install the glass panes with a seal that is tight to ensure that they are insulated as effectively as possible. If the seal on the window is not working, the gas inside the panes might leak out and diminish their insulation capabilities, leading to cracks between two panes.
Another reason that causes broken double-pane windows can be due to inadequate installation, which could lead to the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This can lead to stress cracks that develop over time and weaken the glass. If this happens, you should locate a glazier to replace the broken glass with one that's more suitable for your home.
If local double glazing repairs discover a tiny crack in your double-glazed windows, it is crucial to understand that the crack is not repaired by simply filling it with adhesive. Double-paned windows require an elongated seal between the two panes, and cracks are likely to get worse over time.
It's essential to remember that handling broken glass can be dangerous, so it's always best to contact a professional glazier who have the appropriate tools for the job. They will also be able to take the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage.
Leaking Seals
The IGU is made up of two or three parallel sheets annealed glass or glass that has been tempered. The IGU is secured by a combination aluminum spacers, and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal, which prevents moisture from entering your home. Over time, the seal may fail and allow water to leak in.
Usually, this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant, either polyurethane or silicone, will stretch and shrink slightly with variations in humidity and temperature which puts the IGU at risk of breaking. When the seal is damaged the insulative fill-gas may escape, leaving your windows with a cloudy appearance and draughts which reduce the efficiency of your home.
If a window seal is damaged, it could also cause condensation or water to form between the panes which is impossible to remove. In certain cases the water may leave an indestructible stain on the glass of your window.
In general, you can solve this problem by having your window professionally defogged. This process requires specialized equipment that removes water, fills the gap with the gas argon or krypton and then reseals the window without letting gas escape. The cost of this service can differ based on the type of IGU and your location, but most double-glazed windows can be repaired in an hour or two.
You can increase the energy efficiency and comfort of double-paned windows by doing some things, in addition to replacing the seals on your windows. Select energy-efficient coatings and glass that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's radiation. This will make your home cooler and more comfortable. It's also an inexpensive way to improve the appearance of your windows. Use caulk around the window frame to close any gaps that may allow cold air to enter and warm air out. In certain situations this is a good alternative than replacing the entire window.