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Double Glazing Repairs

If your double glazed windows are difficult to open or are showing signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. In most instances it is possible to fix the issue without needing to replace the entire window unit.

It is recommended to leave the installation of double glazing to experts.

Condensation

The sight of condensation in your double-glazed windows isn’t just an inconvenience it could also mean that warm air is leaving your home. This is usually the sign of a broken seal or deterioration. If this is the case, it’s usually recommended to have the entire window replaced.

In some instances you may be able to use a hairdryer (from a safe distance) to evaporate the moisture from between the glass panes. This is a temporary fix however, you should seek out professional help as soon as you can. The longer the issue persists, the greater the damage to your double-glazed windows, and possibly your health.

If the condensation is confined to a small area of your window frame, it is usually possible to eliminate it by wiping it away regularly and rapidly. If you notice condensation over larger areas of your window, this could indicate that the seal has become damaged and the windows are no longer as thermally efficient than they should be.

Internal condensation can be caused by a range of factors but is usually due to excessive humidity and/or inadequate ventilation in the home. The humidity can easily form water droplets on cold surfaces and that’s why double glazed windows are more likely to display condensation than single-pane windows of earlier. Install a vent in your kitchen or bathroom when it is particularly humid.

If your windows remain under warranty, you can contact their installer to discuss the issue and ask them to address the issue. They might be able to simply replace the unit or may have to install one-way vents in order to prevent further condensation. This is a better solution than simply replacing your double glazed windows completely since it will save you money and time.

Foggy Glass

Foggy windows are a sign that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. Double-pane windows have two glass panes, with a gap in between. The space is filled with energy efficient gases such as argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. However, if the seal fails, water can seep in and create fog. Foggy windows aren’t only ugly, but they could also make your home less efficient in energy use.

While windows can be replaced when they’re leaking some homeowners choose to employ an expert to repair their windows instead. A glass specialist will be able to help determine if the windows can be fixed before making a recommendation. If they need to be replaced they will be able to provide you with a high-quality replacement that isn’t prone to foggy glass.

Another issue with double glazing that is encountered is the windows or doors becoming difficult to open or close. This can be caused by extreme weather or a change in the structure of the frame itself. Contact the company that sold you your double-glazing if you find it difficult to open. The majority of companies have warranties that cover their products for a specific period of time, and some even offer lifetime warranties.

If you are unable to solve the issue with your provider it could be time to switch. Always request an official confirmation of your complaint, along with any agreements that were made, and the dates. This will allow you to switch providers should you need to.

Defogging is one method that can be used to repair foggy windows. It involves drilling holes in the glass, injecting the cleaning solution, getting rid of any soiled liquid and drying the interior. Before committing to this solution it is essential to think about whether it’s appropriate for your home. Be aware, however that it won’t bring back any energy efficiency lost due to damaged window seals.

Cracked Panes

A crack in a window that’s double-glazed may seem like an insignificant problem however it can result in serious damage. It is essential to fix the crack as quickly as possible to avoid further damage. This is especially true in the case of cracks on the inside of the glass.

Double-paned windows are made up of two glass panes which are joined together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gasses, like argon or Krypton. This is done to stop heat from your house from moving through the glass. The gas slows heat transfer, so the warm air from your home can move through the window much more slowly than if there was nothing between the panes of glass.

During installation, it’s important that the windows are installed properly and with a high-quality seal. A glazier who is certified should install the windows, since they’ll be able to seal them securely to ensure the best insulation. If the window seal is not working, it could cause the gas in the panes to leak out and reduce their insulation properties and resulting in cracking between the two glass panes.

Another reason that is commonly cited for cracks in double-pane windows is inadequate installation, which could result in the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This could cause stress cracks to appear over time, weakening the glass. If local double glazing repairs happens, you should seek out a glazier who can replace the damaged glass with one better suited to your home.

If you spot a crack inside your double-glazed window, it’s important to be aware of the fact that it can’t be repaired simply by filling the crack with an adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal that is created between the two glass panes and any cracks could get worse over time, eventually leading to complete breakage.

It is crucial to remember that broken glass can be dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to consult an expert with the right equipment to do the job. They will also be able to remove the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage.

Leaking Seals

A triple-pane or double-pane windows is made up of an insulated glass unit (IGU) comprising three or more sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is fixed by a combination aluminum spacers, polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal, which prevents water from entering your home. In time the seal could fail and allow water to seep into.

Usually it is due to the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to create your window. The sealant (silicone or polyurethane) can shrink and stretch a bit with changes in temperature and humidity and can put IGUs at risk of bursting. If the seal fails, the insulating fill-gas could leak out and leave your windows with an appearance of fog and draughts, which can reduce the efficiency of your home.

If a window seal fails it can cause condensation or water between the panes that are difficult to wipe away. In certain cases, moisture can leave a permanent mark behind on your window glass.

In general, you can resolve this problem by having your window professionally cleaned. This is a process that requires specialized equipment to eliminate moisture, refill the gap with argon or krypton gas, and reseal without letting the gas escape again. The cost can vary depending on the location you are in and the type of IGU you have, however most double-glazed windows can be repaired in one hour or less.

In addition to changing your window seals, there are a few other options you can take to improve the efficiency of your double-pane windows. Choose a glass and coating that is energy efficient that reflect instead of absorbing the sun’s radiation. This will help keep your home cooler and more comfortable. It’s also an inexpensive method to improve the look of your windows. Use caulk around your window frame to close any gaps that could allow cold air in and warm air out. In some instances, this is a better alternative to replacing the entire window.