Double Glazing Repairs If your double-glazed windows are becoming difficult to open or exhibit signs of condensation, it may be time for repairs. In many cases, this can be done without the need to replace the entire window unit. Doing the repair yourself for double glazing requires special tools, and should be left to a professional. Condensation The sight of condensation in your double glazing isn't just annoying it can also indicate that warm air is leaving your home. This is usually a indication of a damaged seal or deterioration. It is best to replace the entire window if that's the case. In certain cases you may be able to use a hairdryer (from a safe distance) to evaporate the moisture that is trapped between the glass panes. This is a great temporary solution, but it's also important to remember that you should seek professional help immediately if you are able to do so. the longer this issue continues and the longer it lasts, the more damage it will cause to your double glazing and potentially to your health. If the condensation is limited to a small area of your window frame, you can usually eliminate it by wiping it down regularly and rapidly. If you notice condensation over a larger portion of the frame of your window it could indicate that the seal has been damaged and the windows aren't as efficient at absorbing heat. It is caused by a variety of causes, but the most common is excessive humidity or poor ventilation within your home. Double-glazed windows will show more condensation than single-pane windows since humidity is able to form droplets of water on cold surfaces. If your bathroom or kitchen are particularly humid, you may need to install a vent to help reduce the humidity levels. If your windows remain under warranty, you can call their installer to explain the issue and request to resolve it. They may be able to replace the unit, or they may need to install one-way vents in order to stop future condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double-glazed windows, as you will save time and money. Foggy Glass The presence of fog in windows is a sign of a failed seal in double-pane windows. These windows have two glass panes with a space in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gases like argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal is not strong enough, moisture may seep through and create fog. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/dover-double-glazing-repairs-near-me/ aren't just ugly, but they could also make your home less efficient in energy use. Many homeowners choose to hire an expert for window repair instead of replacing their windows. Before making a recommendation, a glass expert can determine if the windows can be repaired. If they must be replaced, a glass professional will be able to provide top-quality replacements that aren't likely to get clogged. Another issue that double glazing that people experience is the windows or doors becoming difficult to open or close. This could be due to extreme weather conditions or an alteration in the structure of the frame itself. Contact the company that sold you the double-glazing if you find it difficult to open. The majority of companies offer guarantees on their products that last for a the specified time. Some even provide lifetime warranties. If you are unable to solve the issue with your supplier It could be the time to change suppliers. 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. Foggy windows can be repaired through defogging, a process which involves drilling holes into the window, infusing cleaning solution, removing the soiled liquid, and drying the interior of the glass. This is a relatively new solution and is worth a second look to determine whether it's right for your home before you commit to it. Be aware, however, that it will not replace any energy efficiency loss from damaged window seals. Cracked Panes A crack in a double-glazed window may seem like a minor problem however it could cause significant damage. It's important to have the crack repaired as soon as possible in order to avoid further damage particularly if it's located on the inside of the glass. Double-pane windows comprise two glass panes joined with a space in between which is filled with an inert gas like argon or krypton. This is to ensure that the heat from your home isn't transferred through the glass. The gas slows down the heat transfer, meaning that the warm air from your home can move through the window much more slowly than if there was nothing between the panes of glass. When the windows are installed, it is crucial that the windows are installed properly and with a top-quality seal. A licensed glazier should be able to install the windows as they will be able seal them tightly to ensure the best insulation. If the window seal is not working and the gas inside 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 due to poor installation, which can lead to the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This can cause stress cracks that can develop over time and weaken the glass. If this is the case, it's crucial to find a Glazier who can be capable of replacing the damaged pane of glass with one that's better suited to your home. If you find a crack in your double-glazed window, it's important to be aware the fact that it can't be fixed simply by filling the crack with adhesive. Double-paned windows depend on an elongated seal between the two panes and cracks are likely to get worse as time passes. It is crucial to keep in mind that broken glass can be dangerous. Therefore, it is best to call a professional with the right equipment to do the job. They'll also be able to remove the old sealant from the glass without causing further damage. Seals that leak A triple-pane or double-pane windows consists of an insulated glass unit (IGU) consisting of 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, which prevents moisture from entering your home. As time passes the seal may be damaged which allows water and draughts to seep into your living spaces. This is usually caused by the natural expansion or contraction of materials that were used to construct your window. The sealant, either silicone or polyurethane, can stretch and shrink slightly with changes in temperature and humidity which puts the IGU at the risk of deteriorating. When the seal breaks the fill-gas that is insulating could leak out leaving your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts, which decrease the efficiency of your home. If a window seal is damaged, it can also cause condensation or water to form between the panes that you are unable to wipe away. In certain cases the condensation may cause a permanent stain on your window's glass. In general, you can resolve this problem by having your window professionally cleaned. This procedure requires professional equipment that removes moisture, fills in the void with Krypton or argon gas, and then reseals the window without letting gas escape. The cost can differ based on your location and the type of IGU you have, but most double glazed window can be repaired in one hour or less. You can increase the energy efficiency and comfort of double-paned windows by doing a few things in addition to replacing the seals on your windows. The first is to select high-efficiency glazing and coatings that will reflect the sun's rays instead of absorbing them. This will keep your living spaces cooler, more comfortable and improve the appearance of your windows. Apply caulk around the window frame to seal any gaps that may allow cold air to enter and warm air out. This can be a more cost-effective option than replacing the entire window.