Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Over time, your double-glazed windows will begin to show signs that they need repair. Some of these indicators include drafts entering the window, or misting and condensation on the windows.
You can resolve these issues without replacing your entire window unit and save money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A lawnmower's pebble or a baseball thrown by your kids or even an accident at work could cause a crack in the glass of your double-glazed window. Unlike single-pane windows, double glazing has an airtight seal that holds insulated gas between two panes of glass. Therefore, if a cracked pane of glass leaves your home with an empty space in the frame, it is necessary to replace it.
In a couple of easy steps, you can set up the new window pane. First the old glass and the wood surrounding it must be removed from the frame. Then, the new glass is positioned in the opening of the frame and then pressed into position using silicone caulk.
The gap in the frame is then filled with window putty, which can be spread around using a putty knife, and then smoothed by a second knife. Window putty can also act as an adhesive that helps keep the new pane in the frame. If the wood moldings on your double-glazed windows have been painted, you will require the chisel to scrape off the varnish or paint.
Before installing a new window make sure you have a pair of heavy gloves to prevent cuts when working with glass. Then, scrape off any window glass that remains with a utility knife and take measurements of the opening to the new windowpane. If you have a wooden frame, subtract 1/16 of an inch from each measurement to allow for expansion and contraction of the wooden frame. Metal frames should be treated in the same way to ensure that the replacement glass fits snugly.
During a double-glazed window repair, it is also possible that seals between the glass panes may become faulty. This can lead to condensation or a misty gap. This issue can be fixed by a technician drilling tiny holes into the frame. He or she can then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it out and seal it.
It is better to leave the job of fixing double-glazed windows to an expert. Special tools are needed to take out and install the new glass, and the work should only be done by a trained professional to avoid injuries.
Foggy Windows
The window seal, also referred to as the gasket or window seal, is responsible for securing the air between two panes in double glazing. It also helps prevent drafts as well as moisture and sound. But with time, this window seal could deteriorate or shrink. double glazing repairs is because of the natural expansion and contraction of the window as it moves through various weather conditions and temperatures 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 in between the glass panes, creating an appearance of frosted, wet that is hard to clean.
There are several ways to solve this issue without removing the double glazing. One option is to "defog' the window in place by drilling tiny holes and injecting a cleaning solution between the glass panes. But, this is a short-term fix as the solution only eliminates the fog, but it does not replace the inert gas between the glass and restore the energy efficiency that could be lost due to degrading seals.
Another option is to replace your glass with an insulated glass unit (IGU). This will provide you with clean, fresh and fog-free windows, while also returning any energy efficiency lost. This is more expensive than fixing the IGU but it's a longer-lasting solution.
There is also the possibility that the wood frame of your window or door may be decaying and needs to be replaced. This is a very expensive repair however it will give you a fresh start and prevent more moisture from entering your home. If you decide to replace the window, it's recommended to hire a professional come out and assess the damage prior to making any repairs. They'll provide you with a quote and give you advice about your options. They can then help you pick a new double glazing that is perfect for your. They will then install your windows in a proper manner and use high-quality materials.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation occurs when warm air is in contact with the cold surface. This causes the water vapour in the air to condense, forming droplets of liquid. While condensation that forms on the surface of a double-glazed windows is easy to wipe away the moisture that forms between glass panes can be more problematic, and may cause the growth of mould, or even damage the glass itself.
Moisture that develops between the windows in your home can be caused by a number of problems, including temperature variations as well as high humidity levels and damaged seals. This issue is more common in older windows than in newer ones that have better sealing technology.
The formation of condensation between the window panes is not something to ignore It is important to keep in mind that this can be repaired without having to replace the entire window unit. This problem is usually caused by a leak around the inner or outer frames of the window.
A trained professional can examine your windows and determine if the seals are damaged or require to be replaced. If the seals are replaced, this will aid in restoring the windows' ability to insulate cold and heat, resulting in lower energy costs.
A professional can use a drill to cut holes in both the inner and outward windows to eliminate the moisture that has accumulated inside. It can take from only a few minutes up to several days to remove all moisture. Once the window is dry, it can be resealed with vents which allow moisture and air to escape naturally.
The best way to avoid this problem entirely is to ensure that your windows are properly sealed, and regularly maintained to stop the seals from degrading. You can achieve this by hiring a professional who will perform a regular maintenance for your double-glazing. This will help you spot any issues early and correct them before they become more severe, thus prolonging the lifespan of double-glazed windows.
Frames damaged
Sometimes the frames of double-glazing may develop issues that require repair. These repairs will require the expertise of a professional. They are much cheaper than having to replace window units. They are also more energy efficient.
Condensation occurs when moisture enters the frame of double-glazed units. This happens when the seal made of rubber that keeps the insulating space clear of water cracks and tiny holes appear. This can happen for various reasons. Most commonly the seals wear out or a small amount water gets trapped between the panes.
If you spot a problem the first thing to do is contact the business from which you bought your double glazing. The company will look into the issue and, if the warranty is valid, they will arrange for the unit to be replaced.
This process can take a while, depending on the level of activity at the company. Therefore, it is a good idea to try and find out as as much information about the business and the installers as you can before you sign an agreement with them. This will help you avoid problems later and ensure that your repairs are done correctly.
A specialist can repair gasket seals that have shrunk and broken to stop moisture and condensation forming between the panes of glass. This is a much cheaper alternative to installing double-glazed windows that can cost thousands of dollars. This is healthier for the environment, and will save you money on energy costs.
In some cases, the frame of a window may need to be replaced completely. This could be because of damage or if the windows have become outdated and no longer energy efficient. If the window is not able to be repaired, it is recommended that it is replaced with a replacement with a similar style and design. This will increase the energy efficiency of your home and avoid any future issues with condensation or leaks.