Double Glazing Repairs Repairs may be needed If your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or exhibit signs of condensation. In most instances this can be accomplished without the need to replace the entire window unit. The process of fixing your own double glazing will require specialized tools, which is why this is normally better left to an expert. Condensation Condensation in double glazing is not only annoying however, it can also mean that warm air is leaving your home. This is usually the indication of a damaged seal or the deterioration of. If this is the case, it's recommended to replace the entire window. You may be able in some instances to use a hairdryer to evaporate the moisture between the glass panes (from some distance). This is a temporary fix however, you should seek professional assistance whenever you can. The longer the issue persists, the greater the damage to your double glazing and possibly to your health. If the condensation is just in a small area of your window frame, you will usually be able to get rid of it if you wipe it down quickly and regularly. If you see condensation in a larger area of the window frame, it could mean that the seal is damaged and windows are less thermally efficient. It can be caused by many reasons however the most common is excessive humidity or poor ventilation within your home. Double-glazed windows tend to show more condensation than single-pane windows due to the fact that humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces. Install a vent in your kitchen or bathroom when it is extremely humid. If your windows are in the warranty period, you can contact the company that fitted them to describe the issue and ask them to fix the issue for you. They might be able to replace the unit, or they may have to install one-way air vents in order to prevent future condensation. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/double-glazing-repairs-folkestone/ is a better solution than simply replacing your double-glazed windows completely as it will save you money and time. Foggy Glass Foggy windows can be an indication of a broken seal in double-pane windows. These windows have two panes of glass with a gap in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gasses such as argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal fails, water can seep in and cause fog. Foggy windows aren't just unattractive, but they can also make your home less energy-efficient. Many homeowners prefer to hire an expert to repair their windows rather than replacing their windows. Before making a recommendation, a glass expert can help determine if the windows are repairable. If they need to be replaced, a glass specialist can provide you with high-quality replacements that aren't likely to get clogged. Double glazing can also cause problems in the opening and closing of windows or doors. This can be caused by extreme weather conditions or a change to the structure of the frame. If you find that your double-glazed is difficult to open, the first step is to speak to the company you purchased it from. The majority of companies offer warranties on their products that last for a a set period of time. Some even provide lifetime guarantees. If you cannot resolve the problem with your provider it could be time to switch. Always ask for an official written confirmation of your complaint, any agreements reached and the dates. This will allow you to switch providers if necessary. Windows that have become cloudy can be fixed by defogging. It's a process that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting a cleaning solution to remove the soiled liquid and drying the interior of the glass. This is a relatively new technique that is worth a look at whether it's right for your home before committing to it. It will not, however bring back the energy efficiency that has been lost due to the deterioration of seals. Cracked Panes A crack in a double-glazed window might appear to be a minor issue, but it can actually cause a lot of damage. It is important to repair the crack as soon as you can to avoid further damage. This is especially important when the crack is located on the inside of your glass. Double-pane windows comprise two glass panes that are joined with a space between that is filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton. This is done to prevent heat from your house from transferring through the glass. The gas slows heat transfer, which means that the warm air from your home can be transported through the window more slowly than if there were nothing between the panes of the glass. During installation, it's important that the windows are fitted properly and with a high-quality seal. A qualified glazier should install the windows, as they will be able seal them securely to ensure the best insulation. If the seal on the window is not working and gas is trapped inside the panes might leak out and decrease their insulation properties, leading to cracks between two panes. Another reason that is commonly cited for cracks in double-pane windows can be due to poor installation, which may cause the glass to expand and contracting at different rates. This could cause stress cracks appear over time, weakening the glass. If this is the case, it's crucial to find a good glass glazier who is able to replace the cracked glass with a new one that is more appropriate for your home. If you find a crack in your double-glazed window, it's crucial to be aware of the fact that it can't be repaired simply by filling the crack with adhesive. Double-paned windows depend on a tight seal between the two panes and any cracks will only worsen with time. It is crucial to keep in mind that broken glass is dangerous. Therefore, it is recommended to contact an expert who has the proper tools to do the job. They will also be able remove the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage. Seals that leak A triple-pane or double-pane windows is made up of an insulated glass unit (IGU) with three or more sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is fixed by a combination aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents moisture from getting into your home. Over time, the seal may be damaged and allow water to seep into. Usually this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant, either polyurethane or silicone, will expand and shrink with variations in humidity and temperature and humidity, putting the IGU at the risk of deteriorating. If the seal is damaged the insulating fill gas could leak out and leave your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts that can reduce the efficiency of your home. If a window seal fails it can lead to water or condensation between the panes that are difficult to remove. In certain cases the water may leave a permanent stain on your window glass. Generally, you can fix the problem by having your windows professionally cleaned and sealed. This process requires specialized equipment that removes moisture, fills in the void with argon gas or krypton, and then seals the window without letting gas escape. The cost can vary depending on the location you are in and the type of IGU you have, however, most double-glazed windows repair can be completed in an hour or less. You can improve the energy efficiency and comfort of double-paned windows by doing a few things, including replacing the window seals. Select energy-efficient coatings and glass that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's rays. This will make your home cooler and more comfortable, as well as improve the appearance of your windows. Apply caulk around the window frame to seal any gaps that could let cold air in and warm air out. This is a more cost-effective option than replacing the entire window.