Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Over time, your double-glazed windows will start to display signs that they require repair. This could include a draft coming through the window, misting or condensation on the windows, or even broken glass.
These issues can be solved without the need to replace the entire window unit. It could also help you save money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A baseball thrown by your children, a pebble from your lawnmowers or an accident at work can cause cracks to develop in the double-glazed windows you have. Double glazing is different from single-paned windows as it has an airtight gas seal between the two panes. If a glass pane that has been broken creates a gap in your frame, you will need to replace it.
In a couple of easy steps, you can install an entirely new window pane. The old glass as well as the wood surrounding it must be removed. Next, the new pane is placed in the opening of the frame and then pressed in place using silicone caulk.
Window putty is used to fill the gap between the frame and the new pane. It can be applied using a putty blade, then smoothed with a second one. Window putty can also serve as an adhesive, helping to hold the new window into place. If the wood moldings on your double-glazed windows are painted, you will need to use a chisel in order to remove the excess paint or varnish.
Be sure to wear heavy gloves when working with glass prior to installing the new window. Then, using a utility blade, scrape off any window glass that remains and measure the opening of the new window. For wooden frames you should subtract 1/16 inch from each measurement to take into account the expansion and contraction of wood. The same process should be followed with metal frames to ensure a snug fit of the glass replacement.
It is possible that seals between glass panes could also become faulty during a double-glazed repair. This can lead to condensation or a misty gap. A technician can fix this problem by drilling small holes in the frame to remove any moisture. The technician could then pipe in hot air to dry the gap and seal it up again.
While you can fix double-glazed windows yourself, it is normally recommended to hire an expert handle the task. To avoid injury, it's recommended to leave the work to professionals.
Foggy Windows
The window seal (also called the gasket on the window) is responsible to seal air between the two glass panes in your double glazing, and keeping out drafts, moisture and noise. As time passes the window seal may shrink or become brittle. This is due to natural expansion and contraction when the window goes through various temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
The presence of fog in windows is a sign of a failing airtight seal. This allows humidity from outside to penetrate and form a condensing layer between the glass panes creating an unsightly, frosted look that is difficult to wipe clean.
It is possible to fix the issue without removing double-glazing. One solution to this problem is to 'defog the window'. This can be done by drilling tiny holes between the glass panes and injecting a cleaning agent. This is only a temporary fix because the solution will only remove the fog, not replace the inert gases between the glass panes. It will not replace the energy efficiency that has been lost because of deteriorated seals.
You can also replace your insulated glass unit (IGU). This will give you new, clean, fog-free windows and restore any loss in energy efficiency. Deptford double glazing repairs is more expensive than simply repairing the IGU, but it's a more permanent solution.
It is possible that the frame of your window or door may be rotting. This will need replacement. This is a major repair job and can be very expensive, but replacing the rotted frames will give you a fresh start and stop more moisture from entering your home. If you do decide to replace the window, it's recommended to hire an expert visit and evaluate the damage prior to making any repairs. They will give you a quote and advise you on your options. They can help you choose a new double-glazing that is perfect for your. They will use high-quality materials and ensure that your windows are set up correctly so they will last for many years to come.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation occurs when warm air is in contact with an icy surface. The water vapour in the air to condense and form droplets of liquid. While condensation that forms on the outside of a double-glazed windows is easy to remove, moisture that forms in between the glass panes could be more difficult to remove, and could lead to the development of mould or damage to the glass itself.
The condensation of moisture between your windows can be caused by a variety of things, including fluctuating temperatures, high humidity, and broken seals. This problem is more prevalent in older windows than in modern ones with better sealing technology.
While the formation of condensation between the window panes is not something you ought to ignore, it is important to remember that it is possible to fix the issue without the need to replace the entire window 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 inspect your window to determine if the seals need to be repaired or replaced. If the seals are replaced, this will improve the windows' ability to insulate heat and cold which will result in lower energy costs.
To fix this issue, a professional can drill holes into the window's outer and inner parts to eliminate the water that has accumulated inside. It can take from just a few minutes to several days to eliminate all the moisture. After the window has dried it can be sealed with vents that allow moisture and air to escape naturally.
The best way to avoid this issue altogether is by ensuring that your windows are sealed and regularly maintained to stop the seals from deteriorating. This can be accomplished by hiring a professional to perform a regular maintenance for your double-glazing. This will ensure that any problems are identified early and can be fixed before they become more serious, assisting to extend the life of your double-glazed windows as well as reducing the need for replacements.
Frames that are damaged
Sometimes, the frames of double glazing can develop problems which need repairing. These will need the expertise of an expert. The majority of repairs will be much cheaper than replacing windows. They are also more energy efficient.
Condensation occurs when water enters the frame of double-glazed units. This occurs when the rubber seal that keeps the insulating space free of water cracks and tiny holes appear. This can occur due to a number of reasons. Most often the seals wear out or a small amount moisture gets trapped between the panes.
If you notice any issue the first thing to do is contact the company where you bought your double glazing. They will then investigate the problem and, if it is covered under warranty, they will arrange to have the unit replaced for you.
The process could take some time, depending on the level of activity at the company. It is important to find out as much as you can about the company, the installers and their services before signing the contract. This will help you to avoid any problems later on and to make sure that your repairs are done correctly.
A professional can repair the gaskets that have shrunk or broken in order to prevent condensation and moisture from developing between the glass panes. This is a much cheaper alternative to installing double-glazed windows, which can cost thousands of dollars. This is more sustainable for the environment and will save you money on energy bills.
In some instances, the frame of a window could need to be replaced completely. This could be because of damage or if the windows have become outdated and are no longer energy efficient. If the window is damaged beyond repair, it is best to replace it with a similar type of unit. This will improve the energy efficiency of your house and prevent future problems with leaks and condensation.