15 Reasons Not To Ignore Window Repairs
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Many issues with double glazed windows can be fixed without replacing the entire window. Some of these are draughts, condensation between panes, and moisture in the gaps.
It is best to call an experienced professional to repair double glazing as it requires special tools. This will cut down on time and ensure that the job is carried out correctly.
Damaged Seals
As a barrier of insulation between your exterior and your home double pane windows guard you from both moisture and air loss. Over time the seals may become damaged. The window will begin to appear foggy and condensation and water will accumulate between the panes of glass.
Double pane windows use an airtight structure made of a mixture of aluminum spaces and polyurethane sandwiched between annealed or tempered glasses. The spacers create an air gap between the panes, which is filled with either argon gas or krypton in order to create insulation. This system is very effective in cutting energy costs and decreasing the amount of heat or cold that escapes through your windows.
However, the sealant may degrade over time due to the cycle of temperature and sun pumping. During the day, the sun's rays cause the air inside the window to expand and push against the semi-permeable seals and forcing them to harden. This cyclical cycle can damage the sealant, causing cracks that allow moisture enter and cause fogging.
It is, however, possible to repair double pane windows with damaged seals by having them resealed. This is not a DIY project, and it must be completed by a professional glazier. The professional will take out and dry the glass, fill the space between each pane with argon or krypton, and seal the window.
While the process isn't difficult, it can be costly and should only be attempted by a skilled glazier. Contact your local glazier when you notice signs of a broken window seal, such as condensation or fogging.
Keep in mind that resealing your double pane windows will not restore them to their original energy efficiency, so you might be better off investing in windows that are new. New windows offer improved efficiency in energy use and will save you money over the long term by lowering cooling and heating bills.
Condensation between the Panes
When moisture forms between the panes of a double-glazed window, it can affect the efficiency and performance of your windows. This isn't just a nuisance, but it can also cause heat to escape from your home, which will cost you money. It is essential to tackle this issue as soon as possible, as excess moisture can cause mold and rot which is bad for the structure of your windows as well as the surrounding materials, and could damage your health.
The moisture that is trapped between the glass of double-glazed windows is usually caused by excess humidity in the house and poor ventilation. This is especially true in bedrooms, bathrooms and kitchens, where it can be hard to regulate temperature. In this situation, moisture condenses on cold surfaces, such as glass windows and mirrors and can be trapped between the panes of double-glazed windows. There are several quick solutions for this issue such as using a hairdryer to evaporate moisture between the panes, and leaving vinegar-soaked towels in the affected areas. The best method to avoid condensation is to balance your home's humidity and ventilation. This can be achieved by opening your windows in the morning as you wake up, and leaving trickle vents open while you're out of the home to allow fresh air to circulate.
There are methods to repair this kind of damage and restore your double-glazed window back to its original state of repair. Rather than replacing the entire window unit you can hire a professional to drill a couple of holes in your windows and tuck a desiccate packet into each hole. The packet will absorb any excess moisture, allowing the double-glazed window to function just as it is supposed to.
You can also use a nonabrasive cleaner to remove scratches and haze on the double-glazed windows. These products are available online and at many hardware stores and are cheap in comparison to the expense of buying new windows. If you're not sure how to fix your double-glazed windows or need help installing new windows, contact a reputable window installation company that provides glass failure warranties. They'll be able inspect your windows and recommend the best procedure to take.
Faulty locks
Double-glazed windows with weak locks can pose a serious security risk. They may also cause drafts to infiltrate your home and allow water in. This can cause the plaster to decay and cause damage to the frames of your windows. Locks that are not working properly can be repaired, but in certain cases, replacements may be required. This is a task best left to the professionals who have the proper tools and expertise to ensure that your locks function properly.
Unrepaired double glazing can cost you more than you imagine. You won't only be responsible for the repair costs however, you could also be paying hundreds of dollars in energy bills due to the heat and moisture loss through a glass window that is broken. It is essential to schedule a repair immediately if you discover any issues. Double-glazed windows are designed to last for between 20 and 25 years, so it's vital to keep them maintained.
Double glazing is made from two glass panes that have a gap between them, this gap makes it an insulating material because air can be trapped in this space, which prevents loss of heat. However, the gap can be damaged due to poor installation or wear and tear and this can lead to condensation or mist between the windows. In addition, faulty seals can reduce the efficiency of your home resulting in higher heating costs.
Moisture between the windows is one of the first indications of a failed double glazing system, if you see this occurring then it's vital that you call in an expert to repair your sealed units as soon as you can. If you wait for too long, the condensation could begin to damage walls and furniture and cause the growth of mould.
If the condensation is due to a faulty seal, this can usually be fixed and your window will look as good as new again. This will cut down on the expense of replacing the entire window, and will also stop cold air and moisture from leaking into your home.
You should be aware that a majority of companies offer a warranty on their double glazing. Examine your warranty to determine what it covers and the date it expires. It's recommended to keep all your paperwork (contracts as well as warranties and proof of payment) from when you had double glazing installed to help in the event that you need to claim an amount of money back in the future.
Windows That Don't Open
The most frequent issue homeowners of double glazing encounter after installation is the difficulty of opening or closing their windows. This is often due to the handle being stiff or worn or lock, or loose mechanism. In the majority of cases, it is a simple fix that can be completed by an expert in double glazing repair without the necessity of replacing it.
Double-glazed windows function by using two glass panes that are joined with an inert gas (normally argon or Krypton) filling the space between them. The gas slows the passage of heat from one side to the other and reduces the temperature inside the home and thereby keeping it warmer for longer. Occasionally, the window may crack or break. A broken window means that the double-glazed window will not function effectively and can create cold spots in your home.
Although it is not an inexpensive alternative, you can still repair the broken glass in windows with double glazing. It is generally better to seek a temporary fix instead of paying for a complete replacement. This could include putting an adhesive within the cracks in the glass, or using a kind of putty or special tape.
Condensation between the windows with double glazing can also be a problem. This could be a sign that the seal is not functioning properly, but could also be due to a lack of ventilation in a particular room. It is usually best to get in touch with an expert, as they will be able to make holes in the window to eliminate any moisture that has built up between the panes.
Many double glazing companies offer the possibility of a warranty on their products, but it is crucial to read the specifics carefully to determine what this covers and until when. It is often best to contact the company directly, whether in person or by phone and always follow this up in writing.
Many issues with double-glazed windows can be solved so it's worth trying to resolve the issue before it causes excessive discomfort. Get upvc window repair from an expert before making DIY repairs. Special tools are usually needed and the work is not something you can easily put in the DIY category.