10 Basics On Double Glazing Seal Repairs You Didn't Learn In School
Double Glazing Seal Repairs
If the seals of double-glazed windows are damaged they can lead to damp and mould. This could cause damage to the frame and walls surrounding it, and also impacting your health.
Fortunately, most uPVC windows can be repaired with sealing, not replacement. A glazier will typically clean the frame of the window and the glass and apply a fresh layer of sealant, then smooth it.
Water Leaks
Window seals are designed to keep water from your home. But, when they begin to wear down, it could cause water leaks around your windows. A leaking window is not just a nuisance, but it could cause serious damage to the surrounding structure of your home. It is essential to recognize the problem early and get it fixed by an expert before it gets worse.
The source of leaking windows can often be found not in the glass, but rather on the frame or sill. This is the most typical sign of a damaged seal. It could be caused by damage to the seal caused by weather or age, worn out caulking or even a blocked drain section resulting in an accumulation of ice or water.
Another indication of a failing window seal is water appearing between the panes of your double glazed windows. This is not as dangerous as a leak of water because the water does not travel as far to get into your home. It does mean, however that the inert gases that are sandwiched between your windows have escaped out. This will reduce the insulation value of your window.
The final sign of a failed window seal is condensation between the panes. This may be caused by an ineffective window seal or it could be due to a damp climate in your home or a problem with the glass. The condensation might not just be unpleasant, but it could cause the growth of mould and mildew in your home which can be very difficult and expensive to eliminate.
If you're seeing these indicators, it's the time to have an inspection of your double-glazed windows. Replacing or repairing your windows will help protect your home against water leaks, lower energy bills, and eliminate draughts. It's a small price to pay for the security and comfort of your family. Contact Thompson Creek Window to discuss your options regarding window seal repair or replacement. Our experts are always available to assist you! We provide assistance to homeowners throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
Condensation
A broken double-glazing seal can allow water to enter the space that is used for insulation. The water could cause condensation inside the window panes and may also result in fogging or misting.
If you notice condensation developing within your home, it's the perfect time to contact a professional double glazing repair service. The condensation could be a sign that the vacuum seal installed by the factory failed and moisture has seeped into the insulation.
Condensation can be caused by variety of factors however, the most common cause is faulty sealants, gaskets or insulation in the uPVC frames of the windows. There are a variety of options for repairing double glazing seals, but it's important that the new seals are properly measured to ensure a perfect seal and a perfect fit.
Typically, the gaskets that are used to seal the gaps between your double-glazed units are made from a material such as polyurethane foam. These are designed to last for a long time but they can perish as time passes because of wear and tear and exposure to various temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
Over time, the foam may shrink or crack over time. This can cause cracks in your seal, allowing moisture to enter the double-glazed window. This causes condensation, but it could also result in an increase in energy efficiency, which means that you're losing heat from your home to the outside air.
Re-sealing windows is one way to fix this problem. This is not a sure solution since it will only remove the existing condensation and not address the issues that cause the double-glazed windows to leak or create condensate.
Another solution is to have your windows replaced completely and this should be handled by a professional who provides an insurance-backed guarantee. This means that in the event that the company fails or goes under, you'll remain covered by the insurance. It's worth mentioning that the warranty for your replacement windows must be a minimum of 10 years.
Misting
Check that your double-glazing seals are in good condition as the fall season approaches. The damaged seals on your windows don't just affect the insulation properties of your windows, but can also cause damp, mold and condensation. It is essential to address any problems with your double-glazed windows as soon as you can to prevent further damage and save money on energy costs.
Double-glazed windows are made of two panes glass that are joined by a gas-filled internal space. A sealant layer on the outside covers the gap between the uPVC frame and the glass. This is essential to maintain the airtight seal that keeps cold and warm air from your home, saving you money on your heating bills. The seals may become damaged over time because of weather conditions, aging or improper installation. When this happens, the magic insulation formula that makes double glazed windows so effective can begin to degrade.
If not checked leaks, damaged seals, or other issues can lead to condensation and damp that will not only ruin the appearance of your windows, but can also affect your health. Damp and mould not only cause damage to your floors, walls and ceilings but can also create allergens and irritants within your home, which can be harmful to you and your family's health.
The most frequent issue with double glazing is misting that occurs between the panes. This happens when moisture gets in the insulated part of your windows. It can be difficult to fix without professional double glazing repair.
There are DIY ways to tackle this issue, but we'd recommend against this because it's not just risky but can be extremely dirty and damaging to your windows. These methods involve drilling into your glazed unit and using chemicals to remove fog & condensation. This could cause a number of issues, including the possibility of exposing your windows and units to water damage.
Professional glaziers have the equipment and skills to safely seal uPVC frames. They can also offer you long-lasting results. window repairs Maidenhead can also offer advice on how to keep your uPVC window in good condition to avoid any future issues.
Draughts
A draft coming from your window is an indication that the sealant has probably failed and must be replaced or repaired. This will prevent cold air getting into your home, improve efficiency in energy use and lower heating bills and improve comfort levels and indoor temperature control.
It is important to know that a few draughts aren't caused by the window seals but rather from the gap between the frame of the bricks. In some instances it may be possible to fix the issue by filling the gap by caulking it with silicone. However, if this is not working, it will need to be resealed professionally.
When the sealant on double-glazed windows begins to break down, it allows water ingress. This can cause dampness or even mold. This could affect health and cause damage to the property. It is important to address any water ingress issues immediately you spot them. If your windows are still covered by a guarantee, it is worth contacting the company that you purchased windows from, as they might cover the cost of the repairs.
The windows themselves are usually covered by a warranty which can last at least 10 years However, certain companies offer lifetime warranties - therefore it is worthwhile taking a look. If your double-glazed windows fall under warranty, you must contact the company that sold them as fast as you can and inform them about any issues you're having. It is best to contact the company in person, or via email and letter. This will ensure that everything is clearly documented and easily understood.
It is also worth noting that draughts can often be caused by defective hinges, not an ineffective seal. The hinges are responsible for closing the window sash (the section that you open) but they can also become stiff in time if not regularly oiled. This can leave an opening between the frame and the sash which could allow cold air to enter. Replacing these hinges will solve this problem without affecting the window seals.