Double Glazed Window Repair
Double-glazed windows are an excellent way to reduce energy consumption in your home. However, they can suffer from a range of issues over time.
Misting happens when the gap between panes allows moisture in. This can result in damp, or even mould if left untreated.
To fix this you can try lubricating hinges, handles and mechanisms to see if that helps. If this does not work, it's the time to call an expert.
Condensation
Condensation is ugly, but it could be an indication that the seal made of rubber between your double-glazed windows is beginning to deteriorate. If this occurs, water vapour from within the house could get into the gaps in the insulation glass and cause damage to the window. This can cause the window to become cloudy and may cause wooden frames to decay.
This is a problem that can be solved. To do this the technician will drill small holes in the exterior pane of the window. Then, they'll clean the windows from the inside and then apply an anti-fog coat to get rid of any moisture that might be remaining. local window repair could take a couple of hours or even a few days to dry out the window. Once the window is dry, the contractor can either seal it again or install vents to allow air to flow.
Another method to solve condensation issues is to open the window and let in a little fresh air. This will prevent excess humidity from building up and will help keep windows from getting sagging in the future. If this method doesn't work and your windows start to look blurred, you might need to seek out an expert.
If the window is intact and not broken you might be able to repair it with a replacement of a single pane. This is less expensive than a full replacement and can be completed quickly if the problem is discovered in time.
If the seals are completely broken or a large area of the window has been smashed then the entire window may require replacement. It is best to replace double-glazed windows at the start, instead of having them repaired multiple times. This will save you money over the long term and ensure that your home or business is as comfortable and efficient as possible.
Draughts
Double glazing is designed for energy savings. It consists of two separate pieces of glass, with an inert gas or spacer between them. This creates a seal which keeps warm air inside and cold air outside. However, if you are having issues with condensation or draughts, this could mean that your seals have failed and require replacement. The best way to determine whether this is the situation is to look for damp patches or a mouldy area on the frames, sills, and any wood that is around it.
If you notice that your windows are hard to open or are sagging, this may be due to a temperature change that has caused the frame to expand or shrink little. This issue can be resolved by wiping the mechanism, hinges or handles with cold water. Damaged locks and handles can also be a security threat and should be replaced whenever possible.
The mist between the window panes could be a serious problem that could affect your home's thermal efficiency. This can also lead to condensation, and eventually mould or damp.
Draughts are a common double glazed repair problem and can be easily rectified by using draught excluder kits. These kits are available from DIY retailers. They come with adhesives, foam strips, and brushes that can be used to fill in the gaps and stop wind from blowing through. You can also fill in gaps with silicone sealant to lessen drafts. This is especially useful during the winter.
Although it is possible to fix double-glazed windows yourself, it is often easier and more cost-effective to delegate the job to professionals. It's also much safer and can offer you the assurance that the work has been done correctly and to your complete satisfaction. If you require repairs to a damaged sash or just want to add draught proofing, give us a call today for advice and a free quote.
Smudging
If your double-glazed windows are beginning to show streaks of smudges which just don't seem to go away then you may be able to remove them easily using a non-abrasive cleaning solution. It is possible to remove smudges from your windows with solutions like vinegar, lemon or rubbing alcohol. You can also buy specialist glass cleaners that are more powerful than the ones you would normally use at home and which can quickly remove even the most stubborn of stained areas.
Another common problem with double-glazed windows is that they may start to fog up between the glass panes. Fog between windows is usually caused by a breach in the seal which can result in damp and mold within the building in the event that it is not treated. A double-glazed window repair service will be able to fix the issue and restore the thermal efficiency of your house.
The misty windows are an indication that there may be a problem with the seals. However, this is often fixed without having to replace the entire window unit. In some instances it is possible to fix this by drilling tiny holes into the frame and then inserting a dehumidifier which will absorb the moisture in the window.
However, if the condensation between the windows is a regular issue, it's better to hire an expert to complete the job right and make sure that the seals are fully intact. This will also help prevent the build-up of damp and mould within the property in the future.
It's possible to clean the smudges in between the panes of glass in a double-glazed window, but it's not simple. Separating the window and then resealing it isn't feasible or practical, especially if the glass in one of the panes has broken. Caulking is a better choice. It is available at the majority of hardware stores. It can be used to fill the cracks in between the glass panes and restore the seal.
Broken Seals
The window seals that keep the edges of double- and triple-glazed windows in place are what keep out moisture, and heat or cold in. They are the only thing that can keep condensation between the panes of glass, and a broken window seal means that moisture can make its way into the home, which could lead to mold and mildew issues.
The seals are made from a rubber material, and over time they will be worn out or break due to age and harsh weather conditions. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause seals to expand or contract, which can lead to their breaking. A damaged window seal can cause your windows to appear foggy or misty.
There are many ways to repair a double-paned window with a broken seal. One option is to simply repair the sealant around the edges of the IGU This can be done as DIY for those with the appropriate tools and the right knowledge. The IGU can also be replaced, but it is a more difficult project that requires the dismantling of the window frame as well as the removal of the current IGU. This is a project that should be left to experts who are experienced in this kind of work.
Another alternative is to have the window resealed and performed by a professional within around an hour. This process involves defogging, filling up the gap in the window with the gas argon or krypton, and resealing around the edges. This is an excellent option for those who are looking for a simple affordable and cost-effective solution for double-paned windows that have failed seals.
The best way to prevent future problems with your window seals is to ensure they are installed by a reputable installer and that the windows are covered by a warranty. You should also have your windows inspected every year to ensure that the seals are in good shape. This will allow you to identify early signs such as discoloration and deterioration of the sealant.