Double Glazing Windows Repairs
Double glazing can keep your home warm, and prevent cold air from getting out. This can reduce your energy bills. It also reduces the fading of soft furnishings, wood and paintings.
Sometimes repairs of a window is necessary. Luckily, double-glazed windows are relatively easy to fix by skilled window experts.
Cracked Panes
It's not just a visual affront however, cracked glass can also add to your energy bills by compromising the insulation properties of your windows. It could also be an injury risk and allow condensation to enter and moisture. If left unchecked even small cracks will grow. This is why it's crucial to repair double-glazing windows that are cracked or broken panes as soon as you notice them.
Double-paned windows are designed to offer better insulation from cold and heat than standard windows. They hold a layer gas between the two panes to further prevent draughts and leaks However, if they become damaged or the seals fail the benefits will be lost. Double-paned glass is simple to repair.
If your window is damaged The first thing you should do is to clean it thoroughly. If your window was recently exposed to strong winds, it might be blasted by pebbles and hailstones that caused it to break. These can be removed with some water.
The next step is to determine the size and location of the crack. If the crack is just a few centimetres in length then a piece of clear tape may be enough to keep it from worsening. For larger cracks, you can apply an adhesive that is sold in hardware stores to fix glass. Follow the directions and let the adhesive dry completely.
Another alternative is to fill the crack with a type of putty that is specifically designed for glass. Some of them can be rolled into ropes, which can then be pressed into the gap, and some are sold as kits with a tool that applies the glue for you. Some of these kits are also suitable for filling glass chips, but be careful not to overfill and cause further damage.
If you've got cracks that extend over the frame or if it's a crack in the glass that is insulated then it's time to consult an expert. This kind of damage is more difficult and may require replacement of the entire pane.
Foggy Panes
If you have windows with dual panes that are beginning to get cloudy The good news is that they can be fixed. Foggy windows can be caused by condensation that forms between the glass panes. It can be resolved by removing the affected window using a humidifier, which will remove the remaining moisture and then reinstalling the window using the new seals. The procedure is fast cost-effective and efficient.
You may be tempted by the thought of doing the DIY job however, it is best left to professionals. Glass can break or hurt yourself if try to clear double-pane windows without removing them. You will also need specialized tools and may be unable to achieve a proper seal if you drill holes into the window without knowing how. The result is a window that will struggle to keep it free of moisture and the hole that you made will allow dust and other particles to get in.
Cleaning your double pane windows using a wet cloth can actually cause the problem to get worse. Moisture that dries on the surface of windows can be removed by wiping them with a damp cloth. However, when water seeps into the gaps between panes, it can't be removed by wiping. Windows that appear cloudy could be a sign of broken seals. To fix them, call an expert.
There are a number of ways you can prevent your windows from getting foggy in the first place. Ensure the haze on your windows doesn't result from grease accumulation or fingerprint smudges. You can do this by cleaning them frequently. Use fans in rooms that produce a lot of steam, like bathrooms and kitchens, to keep air moving. Try to avoid using humidifiers in these rooms and only use them if necessary.
Foggy double-pane windows can be an indication that the seals between the windows have worn out or cracked open, which allows moisture to be able to enter and cause condensation. In most cases, this can be fixed by replacing the window pane, and then resealing it. However, assistance from a professional is required to ensure that the job is done properly and to your satisfaction.
Leaking Panes
Seeing condensation in between panes of double-glazed windows isn't just an inconvenience it also indicates that the gas that keeps them warm has been sucked out. This is due to a damaged seal that has to be replaced in order to keep your home dry and warm.
A window that isn't properly sealed isn't only an annoying nuisance; it could also damage the structure of your home, causing mold to develop and lead to damp walls and ceilings. You should fix any leaks as soon as you notice them to prevent the issue from getting worse.
Contact the company that installed your windows to speak to an agent. You should be able get an idea of the price and what can be done.
You can repair double-glazed windows which are older by using an online DIY guide. There are a variety of guides online that will teach you how to grease hinges and handles as well in tightening mechanisms or screws that aren't working properly. Most of the time, this will fix the problem and your windows or doors will once more be simple to open and close.
Caulking is a great way to seal gaps around double-glazed windows. This is particularly useful where the frames meet the double-glazed window. However, be careful not to use too much. A gap greater than 1/4 inch can let moisture into your home. Consult a professional before applying sealants to windows.
Many things can cause a window to leak, including gaps in the flashing or windows that aren't installed properly. It is also recommended to have your windows checked to determine if they have any drainage pipes that are blocked that could allow water to leak in and pool under your sill. It's crucial to ensure that your window sill slopes properly to allow water to drain away from the frame and not on or under the top.
Broken Seals
Today's double and triple pane windows feature three or two glass panes, separated by air space and bonded around the edges. This type of window is referred to as an insulated glazing unit (IGU). IGU windows have insulative gases like argon and Krypton between the panes of glass to decrease heat transfer or cool transfer. If one or more seals on these windows breaks the insulative gas has been released. This negates the insulation benefits.
Window seals can fail due to a number of factors such as natural house settling which can cause uneven pressure on the framing around the windows. Strong winds, particularly when there's lots of dust in the air, may also cause damage to the seals. Window seals can also get damaged when they're exposed to harsh chemicals like the ones used in stripping paint or are exposed to extreme temperatures.
When a window seal fails, it can cause a number of problems, such as unresolved draughts as well as increased energy consumption and clouds or misty windows. It is important to know that in the majority of cases, a damaged window seal can be repaired instead of being replaced.
To repair a broken seal the expert will have to clean the glass's surface and the frame, then remove the IGU and replace the damaged window seal and refit it back into the frame. This is a complex procedure, so it's essential to hire a professional for this type window repair.
If your windows start to look foggy, or you notice unaccounted-for drafts, it might be time to fix double glazing. Talk to a local window installation company to determine if your current windows can be repaired or when it's time to get like-for-like replacement windows that will provide your home with an energy efficient upgrade.