Forget Double Glazing Windows Repairs: 10 Reasons That You No Longer Need It
Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Over time, your double-glazed windows will start to show signs that they need repair. Some of these indicators include drafts entering the window or misting and condensation on the windows.
These issues can usually be solved without having to replace the entire window units and it could also help you save money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A baseball thrown by your children or a stray piece of sand from your lawnmower or a mishap at work can cause a crack to appear in the double-glazed windows you have. As opposed to single-pane windows glazing features an airtight seal that holds insulated gas between two panes of glass. So, if a damaged pane is left in your home with a space in the frame, it is imperative to replace it.
A new window pane can be put in place in a few simple steps. The old glass and wood surrounding it must be removed. The new pane must be positioned in the frame opening, and pressed down using silicone caulk.
The frame's gap is then filled with window putty which is spread with a putty knife and smoothed with a second putty knife. Window putty can also act as an adhesive to hold the new pane in the frame. If the wood moldings on the double-glazed windows are painted, you will require an axe to scrape off the paint or varnish.
Wear heavy gloves when working with glass before installing the new window. Then, scrape off any remaining window glazing using a utility knife. Then determine the opening for the new window. If you have a wooden frame, subtract 1/16 inch from each measurement to allow for the expansion and contraction of wood. The same process is to be followed for metal frames to ensure a snug fit of the glass replacement.
In the course of repairing a double-glazed window it is also possible that the seals between the glass panes will be damaged. This could lead to condensation or a mist that forms in the gap. This problem can be resolved by a technician drilling tiny holes into the frame. The technician could then pipe in hot air to dry the gap, and re-seal it.
It is better to leave the job of repairing double-glazed windows an expert. To avoid injury, it is recommended to leave the work to professionals.
Foggy Windows
The window seal (also called the gasket for windows) is responsible to seal air between the two panes of glass in your double glazing and keeping out drafts, noise and moisture. As time passes the window seal will shrink or become brittle. This happens because of natural expansion and contraction when the window goes through various temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
The presence of fog in windows is an indication of a weak airtight seal. This allows water from outside to enter and condense inside the glass panes, creating the appearance of a wet, frosted look that is hard to clean.
There are a few options to fix this issue without removing the double glazing. One option is to 'defog' the window in place by drilling tiny holes and injecting a cleansing solution between the glass panes. This is however a short-term fix as the solution will only eliminate the fog, but it does not replace the inert gas between the glass and restore energy efficiency that may be lost due to deteriorating seals.
You can also replace your insulated glare unit (IGU). This will provide you with new, clean windows, free of fog, and restore any loss in energy efficiency. This solution is more expensive than repairing the IGU but it's a more permanent one.
It is possible that the frame of your window or door may be rotting. This may need replacement. This is a costly repair, but it will give you a new start and stop more moisture from entering the home. If you do decide to replace the window, it's best to have a professional come out and evaluate the damage prior to making any repairs. They can give you an estimate and guide you on your options. They can then help you pick a new double glazing that is suitable for. They will then install your windows in a proper manner and use high-quality materials.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation occurs when warm air comes in contact with an icy surface. Water vapour in air condenses and forms liquid droplets. While condensation that forms on the outside of a double-glazed window is easy to clean away, moisture that forms in between panes of glass can be more problematic, and may result in the development of mould, or even damage the glass itself.
The condensation of moisture between your windows could be caused by many things like fluctuating temperatures, high humidity and broken seals. double glazing repairs is more common in older windows than in newer ones that have better sealing technology.
It is crucial to understand that while the formation of condensation on the glass of your window shouldn't be overlooked, it can be easily addressed without the need to replace the entire unit. In many instances, this issue is caused by a leak in the vacuum or gas seal that is found in the outer and inner frames of your windows.
A professional can examine your window and determine if the seals require repairs or replaced. If the seals need to be replaced it will improve your windows' capacity to for insulation from cold or heat and result in lower energy costs.
A professional can use a drill to make holes in both the interior and outer windows to remove the moisture that has built up inside. It can take from only a few minutes up to several days to eliminate all moisture. When the window is dry, it can be resealed with vents which allow moisture and air to be able to escape naturally.
It is best to make sure that your windows are maintained and sealed to avoid this issue. This can be done by hiring a professional to perform regular maintenance services for your double-glazing. This will ensure that any problems are caught early and rectified before they become more serious, assisting to extend the lifespan of your double-glazed windows and reduce the need for replacements.
Damaged Frames
Sometimes the frames of double glazing could be damaged and require repair. This will require the expertise of a professional. The majority of repairs will be much less expensive than replacing window units. They are also more energy efficient.
Condensation occurs when water enters the frame of double-glazed units. This occurs when the seal made of rubber that keeps the insulating area free of water cracks and tiny holes begin to appear. This could be because from a variety reasons most often the seals are worn down or some water getting trapped between the panes.
The first step to take should you encounter this issue is to contact the company from which you purchased your double glazing from. The company will investigate the issue and should the warranty be valid, will arrange for the unit to be replaced.
The process could take some time, depending on the level of activity within the company. It is therefore recommended to research to find as as much information about the business and the installers as you can before you sign a contract with them. This will help you to avoid any problems later on and ensure that repairs are carried out properly.
A professional can replace the gasket seals which have shrunk and cracked to stop condensation and moisture creating between the panes glass. This can be much less expensive than buying and installing new double glazing windows, which could cost thousands of dollars. It is also better for the environment and can help you reduce your energy costs.
In some cases the frame of the window may require a complete replacement. This could be due to damage or if windows have become old and are no longer energy efficient. If the window can't be repaired, it is recommended to replace it with a window of a similar design. This will increase the energy efficiency of your house and will prevent any future issues caused by leaks and condensation.