Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Over time, your double-glazed windows will begin to begin to show signs of needing repairs. These might include a draught entering the window, misting or condensation between the windows and broken glass.
You can solve these problems without having to replace your entire window unit and save money on your energy bills.
Broken Panes
A baseball thrown by your kids or a stray pebble from your lawnmower or a mishap at work could cause a crack to appear in the double-glazed windows you have. Double glazing is different from single-paned windows since 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'll have to replace it.
In a few easy steps, you can set up a new window pane. First the old glass and the wood surrounding it must be removed from the frame. Then, the new glass is inserted into the opening of the frame and then pressed in place with silicone caulk.
The gap in the frame is then filled with window putty which can be spread using a putty blade and smoothed using a second putty knife. Window putty can also serve as an adhesive, which can help to hold the new pane in place. If the wood moldings on your double-glazed windows are painted, you will require an axe to get rid of the paint or varnish.
Make sure you wear thick gloves when working with glass before installing the new window. Next, scrape away any remaining window glazing with a utility knife and determine the opening for the new window. For a wooden frame you should subtract 1/16 inch from each measurement in order to allow for the expansion and contraction of wood. Metal frames should be treated in the same way to ensure that the replacement glass fits perfectly.
In the course of repairing a double-glazed window it is also possible that the seals between the glass panes may fail. This can lead to condensation or mist forming in the gap. A technician can resolve this problem by drilling tiny holes into the frame to expel any moisture. He or she can then pipe hot air into the gap to dry it and reseal.
It is better to leave the job of repairing double-glazed windows professionals. To avoid injury, it is recommended to leave the work to a professional.
Foggy Windows
The window seal, also referred to as the gasket or window seal is responsible for securing the air between the two panes of double glazing. It also prevents drafts, sound and moisture. As time passes the window seal may shrink or even disappear. This is due to natural expansion and contraction when the window is exposed to various temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
Foggy windows are a sign that the air-tight seal between the two panes of the window is failing. This can allow water from outside to enter and condense in between the glass panes, giving an appearance of frosted, wet that is hard to clean.
There are a few options to fix this issue without removing the double glazing. One solution to this problem is to 'defog the window'. This can be done by drilling tiny holes between the glass panes and injecting an cleaning agent. This is a temporary fix, as the solution will only remove the fog, not replace the inert gases between the glass panes. It also won't bring back the energy efficiency that has been lost due to deteriorating seals.
Another alternative is to replace your IGU, or insulated glass unit (IGU). This will provide you with clean, fresh, fog-free windows and will restore any energy efficiency. This will cost more than simply repairing the IGU, but it is an option that is more durable.
There is also the chance that the frame of your window or door may be rotting and need to be replaced. Billericay window repairs is a major repair and can be very costly however, replacing the rotten frames will give you a fresh start and will stop any more moisture from entering your home. It is recommended to hire an expert to evaluate the damage to your window before you make any repairs. They can give you an estimate and provide you with advice on your options. They will help you pick a new double glazing that will fit perfectly. They will put in your windows properly and make use of high-quality materials.
Condensation between the Panes
Condensation is a natural process that occurs when warm air comes in contact with an cool surface. Water vapour in air condenses, forming droplets of liquid. While condensation that occurs on the surface of a double-glazed window can be easy to remove, moisture that forms in between the glass panes could be more difficult to remove, and could cause the growth of mould or damage to the glass itself.
The moisture that forms between your windows could be caused by a variety of factors like temperature fluctuations as well as high humidity and damaged seals. Older windows are more vulnerable to this issue than newer ones that have improved sealing technology.
It is crucial to understand that while the formation of condensation on the glass of your window shouldn't be overlooked, it is easily fixed without the need to replace the entire unit. In many cases, this issue is caused by leaks in the vacuum or gas seal that is found between the outer and inner frames of your windows.
A trained professional will inspect your windows and determine whether the seals are damaged or require to be replaced. If the seals need to be replaced they will make your windows more efficient in insulate heat or cold, resulting lower energy costs.
To resolve this issue, a professional can drill holes in the inner and outer window to remove the moisture that has built up inside. It can take anything from just a few minutes to several days to eliminate all moisture. Once the window is dry, it can be resealed with vents which allow moisture and air to go away naturally.
It is important to make sure that your windows are properly maintained and sealed to avoid this issue. This can be achieved by hiring a professional who will carry out regular maintenance on your double-glazing. This will ensure that any issues are caught early and fixed before they become more serious, helping to extend the lifespan of your double-glazed windows and reduce the need for replacements.
Frames that are damaged
Sometimes, the frames of double-glazing can develop problems which require fixing. These will need the expertise of a professional. Most of these types are cheaper than replacing the window units. They will also be much more energy efficient.
One of the most common problems is when water enters into the frame of a double-glazed unit and causes condensation. This is caused when the rubber seal which keeps the insulating gap free of water deteriorates and tiny holes begin to appear. This could be because of a variety of reasons, most commonly the seals being worn down or a small amount of moisture getting trapped in between the panes.
The first thing to do when you spot this issue is to contact the company from which you purchased your double glazing from. They will then investigate the problem and, if it is covered under warranty, they will arrange to have the unit replaced for you.
It is important to keep in mind that this process could take some time, depending on how busy the company is. It is crucial to know all you can about the business, the installers and their services prior to signing the contract. This will help you to avoid any problems later and ensure that your repairs are carried out properly.
A specialist can replace gasket seals that have shrunk and broken to stop condensation and moisture from developing between the panes of glass. This is a lot cheaper than purchasing and installing new double-glazing windows, which can cost thousands of pounds. It's also more sustainable and can help you reduce your energy bills.
In certain cases, the window frame may require a complete replacement. It could be due to damage or the windows are old and no longer energy efficient. If the window is not able to be repaired, it's best that it be replaced with a unit of a similar design. This will increase the energy efficiency of your house and avoid future issues with condensation and leaks.
