Double Glazing Repairs
If your double glazed windows are difficult to open, or show signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. In most cases it is possible to fix the issue without needing to replace the entire window unit.
Attempting to fix your own double glazing requires special tools, so this should be left to professionals.
Condensation
Condensation in your double glazing isn't just annoying it could also mean that warm air is leaving your home. This is usually a sign of a broken seal or deterioration. If this is the case, it's usually recommended to have the entire window replaced.
You might be able in certain situations to use a hairdryer in some instances to remove the water between the glass panes (from some distance). This is a temporary solution but you should seek out professional help as soon as you can. The longer the problem persists, the more damage to your double glazing and even to your health.
If the condensation is confined to a small portion of the window frame, you can usually get rid of it by wiping it off regularly and rapidly. However, if you see condensation over larger areas of your window, this could mean that the seal has become damaged and that the windows are no longer as efficient thermally than they need to be.
Internal condensation can be caused by a range of factors however, it's usually due to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation around the house. Double-glazed windows are more likely to show condensation than older single pane windows because humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces. If your kitchen or bathroom are particularly humid, you may need to install an air vent to reduce the humidity levels.
If your windows remain within their warranty you can contact the company that fitted windows to discuss the issue and ask them to rectify it for you - they may be able to simply replace the unit, or they may have to install one-way air vents in order to prevent future condensation. This is a far better solution than simply replacing your double-glazed windows completely because it will save time and money.
Foggy Glass
Foggy windows are a sign that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. Double-pane windows have two glass panes, with a space between them. The space is filled with energy efficient gasses such as argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal is not strong enough, moisture may seep through and result in fog. Foggy windows are not only unattractive, but they can also make your home less energy-efficient.
While windows can be replaced if they are fogging, many homeowners prefer to hire a professional for window repair instead. Before making a recommendation, a glass expert can determine if the windows can be repaired. If they need to be replaced, a glass professional can offer top-quality replacements that aren't susceptible to fogging.
Another issue that double glazing that people experience is the windows or doors becoming difficult to open or close. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or a change in the frame's structure. You should contact the company that sold you your double glazing if you discover it difficult to open. The majority of companies offer warranties that cover their products for a specified period of time, and some provide lifetime guarantees.
If you cannot resolve the issue with your provider, it may be time to switch providers. Always request an official confirmation of your complaint, any agreements that were made, and the dates. If you need to switch providers this will be easier.
Foggy windows can be repaired by defogging. It's a process that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting a cleaning solution, removing the soiled liquid and drying the inside of the glass. This is a relatively new method that is worth a look at whether it's right for your home before you commit to it. Keep in mind, though, that it will not restore any lost energy efficiency from damaged window seals.
Cracked Panes
A crack in a double-glazed window may seem like a minor issue but it can cause significant damage. It is important to repair the crack as soon as you can to avoid further damage. This is especially true when the crack is located on the inside of the glass.
Double-paned windows are made up of two glass panes which are joined together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gases, like argon or Krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home isn't transferred through the glass. The gas also slows the transfer of heat, so that the warm air inside your house can move more slowly through the window than if there was nothing between the two glass panes.
It is crucial that windows are properly installed and have a solid seal. A glazier who is certified should install the windows, since they can seal them tightly to ensure the best insulation. If the window seal is not working, it could cause the gas in the panes to leak, reducing their insulating properties and causing cracks between the two panes of glass.
Poor installation can also cause double-paned windows to crack. The glass expands and contracts at different rates. This could cause stress cracks to develop over time, which weakens the glass. If this is the case, it's important to find a good Glazier who can be in a position to replace the damaged glass with an alternative that is better suited to your home.
In the event that you spot a crack inside the double-glazed window, it's important to be aware the fact that it isn't able to be fixed simply by filling in the crack using an adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal that is created between the two glass panes and any cracks could get worse over time, leading eventually to total breakage.
It is crucial to remember that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it's best to call a professional who has the right tools to complete the task. They will also know how to take off the old sealant, without causing damage to the glass.
Leaking Seals
A triple-pane or double-pane windows comprises an insulated glass unit (IGU) with three or two sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is secured by a combination aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal, which prevents water from entering your home. In time, however the seal could fail which allows the draughts and water to penetrate into your living spaces.
This is typically caused by the natural expansion or contraction of materials that were used to construct your window. The sealant, which is either silicone or polyurethane, can stretch and shrink slightly with variations in humidity and temperature, putting the IGU at risk of breaking. If repair double glazing fails, the insulating fill-gas could leak out, leaving your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts that reduce the efficiency in your home.
If a window seal is damaged, it may cause condensation or water to form between the panes, which is impossible to remove. In some instances, water can leave a permanent mark left on the glass of your window.
Generally speaking, you can fix the issue by having your windows professionally cleaned and sealed. This is a process that requires specialized equipment to eliminate moisture, fill the void with argon or Krypton gas, and then seal it without letting the gas escape again. The cost can vary depending on your location and kind of IGU, but most double glazed window repair can be completed in an hour or less.
You can increase the energy efficiency and comfort of your double-paned windows by doing a few things in addition to replacing the window seals. First, you should choose energy-efficient glazing and coatings that reflect sun's rays instead of absorbing them. This will help keep your rooms cooler and more comfortable. It's also an inexpensive method to improve the look of your windows. Use caulk around your frame of the window to seal any gaps that may allow cold air to enter and warm air out. This is a cost-effective solution than replacing the entire window.