Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Over time, your double-glazed windows will start to show signs that they need repair. It could be a draught coming through the window, misting and condensation between windows and even broken glass.
These issues can usually be solved without the need to replace the entire window units and it could also save you money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A ball thrown by your children, a pebble from your lawnmower or an accident at work can cause a crack to appear in your double-glazed windows. Double glazing is different from single-paned windows as it has an airtight gas seal between the two panes. If a glass pane that has been broken creates a gap within your frame, you will need to replace it.
A new window can be installed in a couple of easy steps. First, the old glass and the wood surrounding it must be removed from the frame. The new pane must be placed into the frame opening and then pressed into place using silicone caulk.
Window putty is used to fill the gap between the frame and the new pane. It can be applied using the help of a blade for putty, and then smoothed using a second one. Window putty is also an adhesive that helps keep the new pane in the frame. If your double-glazed windows have wood moldings, you may require a chisel to take any excess paint and varnish from the grooves in which the moldings fit.
Before installing a new window, ensure you are wearing a pair of gloves that are thick to avoid cuts when working with glass. Then, using a utility blade, scrape off any remaining window glazing and measure the opening of the new windowpane. With a wood frame, subtract 1/16 of an inch from each measurement to allow expansion and contraction of the wooden frame. The same procedure should be followed with metal frames to ensure a secure fit of the replacement glass.
It is possible that the seals in between the glass panes may also fail during the repair of double-glazed. This could cause condensation or mist in the gap. This problem can be resolved by a technician who drills small holes into the frame. The technician can then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it and seal it again.
It is better to leave the job of repairing double-glazed windows to a professional. Special tools are needed to remove and install the new glass, and the job should only be performed by a qualified expert to avoid any injuries.
Foggy Windows
The window seal (also called the window gasket) is responsible for sealing air between the two panes of glass in your double glazing and keeping out drafts, noise and moisture. As time passes, the window seal can shrink or even disappear. This is because of the natural expansion and contraction of the window as it goes through different weather conditions and temperatures throughout the year.
Foggy windows indicate that the air-tight seal between the two panes of your window are failing. This will allow humidity from the outside air to get in and condense between the glass panes, creating an unsightly, frosted look that is difficult to clean.
There are a few ways to solve this issue without having to remove the double glazing. One option is to 'defog the window by drilling tiny holes and injecting a cleansing solution between the glass panes. This is a temporary fix because the solution will only eliminate the fog, and not replace the inert gases that are between the glass panes. It will not restore any energy efficiency that has been lost due to deteriorating seals.
You can also replace your insulated glass unit (IGU). This will provide you with new, clean and fog-free windows, as well as returning any energy efficiency lost. This option is more expensive than fixing the IGU, but it's a more permanent one.
There is also Double Glazing Repair that the wood frame of your door or window may be rotting and need to be replaced. This is a costly repair however, it will give you a fresh start and prevent more moisture from entering the home. It is best to get an expert to evaluate the damage to your window before you begin any repairs. They will give you an estimate and guide you on the options available. They can help you select the right double-glazing option that will fit perfectly. They will install your windows properly and make use of top 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, creating droplets of liquid. While condensation that forms on the surface of a double-glazed windows is easy to remove, moisture that forms in between glass panes can be more troublesome and can result in the development of mould or damage the glass itself.
The condensation that forms between the windows in your home could be caused by a number of issues, such as temperature fluctuations, high humidity levels and broken seals. Older windows are more vulnerable to this issue than newer ones with better sealing technology.
It is important to note that although the forming of condensation on the glass of your window should not be ignored, this 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 around the inner and outer frames of your windows.
A trained professional can examine your windows to determine if the seals are damaged or need to be replaced. If the seals are replaced, it will aid in restoring your windows' capacity to insulate heat and cold which will result in lower energy bills.
A specialist can use a drill to cut holes in both the interior and outer windows to remove the moisture that has accumulated within. It can take from a few hours to several days for the moisture to completely clear out of the window. When the window is dry it can be sealed with vents that allow air and moisture to be able to escape naturally.
The best way to avoid this problem altogether is by ensuring that your windows are properly sealed and regularly maintained to prevent seals from breaking down. You can achieve this by hiring a professional to carry out regular maintenance on your double-glazing. This will ensure that any issues are identified early and rectified before they become more serious, helping to extend the lifespan of your double-glazed windows as well as reducing the necessity for replacements.
Damaged Frames
Sometimes the frames of double-glazing can develop problems which require fixing. This will require the expertise of a professional. They are cheaper than replacing the windows. They will also be more energy efficient.
Condensation occurs when water gets into the frame of double-glazed units. This occurs when the seal made of rubber that keeps the insulating space free of water breaks and tiny holes appear. This can occur due to many reasons. Most commonly, the seals are worn out or a tiny amount of moisture gets trapped between the panes.
The first step should you encounter this issue is to contact the company from which you purchased your double-glazed unit from. They will investigate the issue and, if it is covered under warranty, they will arrange to have the unit replaced for you.
This process can take a long time, based on the level of activity at the firm. Therefore, it's recommended to research and find out as many details about the company and the installers you can before you sign a contract with them. This will allow you to avoid problems later and ensure that repairs are done correctly.
A specialist can replace gaskets that have shrunk, or broken, to stop condensation and moisture from forming between the glass panes. This is a cheaper alternative to installing double-glazed windows, which can cost up to thousands of dollars. It is also more sustainable and can help you save money on your energy bills.
In some instances, the frame of a window could require replacement completely. This could be due to damage or if the windows have become outdated and not energy efficient anymore. If the window cannot be repaired, it is best that it be replaced with a unit of a similar design. This will increase the energy efficiency of your home as well as prevent any future issues with condensation or leaks.