What's Holding Back The Window Repairs Industry?
Double Glazed Window Repairs
Double-glazed windows can have a variety of issues that can be fixed without the need to replace the entire window. These include draughts between panes, condensation and moisture in the gaps.
It is best to call an experienced professional to repair double glazing as it requires special tools. This will help you save time and ensure that the job is done right.
Seals that are damaged
Double pane windows act as an insulating barrier that shields you from moisture and air loss. However, with time, the seals between the glass can weaken. When this occurs, the window will begin to fog up and allow water and condensation to accumulate between the glass panes.
Double pane windows utilize an airtight structure made of a combination 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 Krypton or argon gas to create insulation. This system is extremely effective in reducing energy costs and reduces the amount of heat or cold that enters your windows.
However, over time, the sealant may degrade due the cycle of temperature and solar pumping. During the day, sun's rays cause the air within the window to expand and push against the semi-permeable seals, forcing them to harden. This cycle of expansion and contraction can harm the sealant, creating cracks that allow moisture be able to enter and cause fogging.
It is possible to repair double pane windows that have damaged seals by having them resealed. However, you should know that this isn't an easy DIY task and should be handled by a skilled Glazier. The professional will take off and dry the glass, then fill the gap between each pane with argon or krypton, and then seal the window.
While the process isn't difficult, it could be expensive and should only be attempted by a skilled glazier. If you're noticing signs of a broken seal, like fogging or condensation between the window panes, contact your local glazier to get an estimate for free.
Keep in mind that resealing your double pane windows will not restore them to their energy efficiency, so you might be better off purchasing windows that are new. New windows will provide improved energy efficiency and can save you money over the long term through lower heating and cooling bills.
Condensation between the Panes
When moisture develops between the panes of a double-glazed windows, it can reduce the performance and efficiency of your windows. This isn't just annoying but can also cause heat to escape from your home, which can cost you money. It is essential to tackle this problem as soon as you can because excess moisture could cause rot and mold, which is bad for the strength of your windows as well as the materials surrounding them and could damage your health.
The primary reason for moisture between the glass panes of double-glazed windows is excessive humidity and inadequate ventilation in the home. This is especially the case in bathrooms, kitchens and bedrooms where it can be difficult to regulate temperature. Moisture condenses on cold surfaces such as glass windows and mirrors. The condensation of moisture can get trapped between the double-glazed windows. This issue can be fixed quickly with hairdryers and soaking your towels in vinegar to eliminate the moisture between the panes. The best way to avoid condensation is to control your home's humidity and ventilation. This can be achieved by opening the windows in the morning when you get up and leaving vents open for trickle ventilation while you're out of the home to let fresh air circulate.
There are ways to repair this type of damage and restore your double-glazed windows back to their original state. Instead of replacing the entire window unit you can hire a pro to drill a few small holes into your windows. Then, place a desiccate packet into each hole. The packet will absorb any excess moisture and allow your double-glazed window to perform as it is supposed to.
Alternately, you can employ a non-abrasive cleaning product to remove scratches and haze from double-glazed windows. These products can be purchased on the internet or at many hardware stores. They are comparatively inexpensive when compared to buying new windows. If you're unsure of how to fix double-glazed units, or need assistance installing new ones, call a reputable business that installs windows and provides warranties for glass failure. They'll be able to examine your windows and recommend the best course of action.
Faulty Locks
Insecure locks on double glazed windows pose a major security risk, and they can also lead to water and draughts getting into your home. This can cause damage to plaster and cause rot on the windows' frames. The locks that are damaged can be fixed, however in some instances, replacements may be required. It is recommended to leave this task to professionals who have the tools and know-how necessary to ensure that your locks are operating properly.
Leaving faulty double glazing unrepaired will cost you more than you realise. It's not just that you'll have to pay the repair costs and maintenance costs, but you could be paying hundreds of dollars in energy bills due to the heat and moisture loss through a broken glass window. It is crucial to arrange repairs immediately if you notice any problems. Double-glazed windows are designed to last for between 20 and 25 years, so it's vital to keep them maintained.
Double glazing is two panes with a space between them. RepairMyWindowsAndDoors gives it its insulation properties, since air can be trapped here which prevents heat loss. However, the gap could be damaged due to poor installation or general wear and tear. This can lead to condensation or mist between the windows. The seals that are not properly sealed can also reduce the efficiency of your home resulting in higher heating bills.
The presence of condensation between windows is a sign of a broken double glazing unit. If you spot this, you need to contact an expert to repair your sealed units. If you put off repairs for too long, the condensation can ruin your furniture and walls. It can also cause mold growth.
If the condensation is caused by a faulty seal, this can be repaired and your window will be good as new again. This will cut down on the expense of replacing the entire window, and will prevent cold air and moisture from leaking into your home.
Many companies offer a warranty with their double glazing and this is something that you must be aware of. Check your warranty and see what it includes. Keep all the documents (contracts and warranties as well as proof of payment) and from the time you had double glazing installed. This will prove useful should you ever need to claim a reimbursement.
Windows That Don't Open
The most common problem that homeowners with double glazing face after installation is difficulty opening or closing their windows. This is usually caused by a loose mechanism or a lock or handle that has become stiff or worn. This is usually a simple fix that can be accomplished by a double-glazing repair expert without the need for replacement.
Double-glazed windows are made by gluing two sheets of glass together, and then the space between them with an inert (normally argon or Krypton). The gas slows heat transfer from one side to the other which reduces the temperature of the home. Sometimes, windows crack or break. A broken pane means that the double glazed window isn't functioning effectively and can create cold spots in your home.
It is possible to replace the broken glass pane in a double glazed window but it is not a cheap alternative. It is generally better to find a temporary solution than pay for a complete replacement. This can be accomplished by using an adhesive to fill in the cracks, or using tape, putty or any other tape that is specially designed for the job.
Another potential problem with double-glazed windows is condensation that forms between the panes. This could indicate that the seal is not working properly, but it could also be the result of a lack of ventilation in a specific room. It is best to consult an expert who can drill holes in the window to remove any moisture that may have accumulated between the panes.
Many double glazing companies provide warranties for their products. It is important to read the details to determine what it is and how long. It is recommended to contact the company in person or over the phone. Always follow up with a written response.
It is worth attempting to repair double-glazed windows before they cause problems. It is advisable to consult an expert before carrying out DIY repairs, because specific tools are usually required for the task and it is not something that could easily be relegated to the 'DIY' category.