Double Glazing Repairs If your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or show signs of condensation it could be time to make repairs. In most instances it is possible to fix the issue without having to replace the entire window unit. Attempting to fix your own double glazing will require specialized tools, which is why this should be left to a professional. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/double-glazing-repairs-folkestone/ of double glazing isn't just annoying, but it also means warm air is being emitted from your home. It's generally a sign that the seal is broken or is deteriorating. If this is the case, it's best to have the entire window replaced. In some cases, you may be in a position to use a hair dryer (from an appropriate distance) to eliminate the moisture that is trapped between the glass panes. This is a temporary fix but you should seek professional assistance whenever you can. The longer the problem persists, the more damage to your double glazing, and even to your health. If the condensation is restricted to a small area of your window frame, it is usually possible to remove it by wiping it down regularly and quickly. If you notice condensation in larger areas of your window, this could mean that the seal has become damaged and the windows are now less efficient in terms of thermal efficiency than they ought to be. Internal condensation can be caused by a variety of factors however, it's usually due to excessive humidity and/or poor ventilation around the house. Double-glazed windows tend to show more condensation than older single pane windows because humidity can easily form water droplets on cold surfaces. Install a vent in your kitchen or bathroom if it is especially humid. If your windows are under warranty, you can call their installer to discuss the issue and ask them to fix it. They might be able to simply replace the unit or may have to install one-way vents in order to stop future condensation. This is a much better solution than simply replacing your double glazed windows entirely since it will save you money and time. Foggy Glass Foggy windows can be a sign of a failed seal in double-pane windows. They have two glass panes, with an opening between them, and 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. However, if the seal fails, water can enter and create fog. Foggy windows can make your home less effective and less attractive. While you can replace your windows in case they're fogging, many homeowners prefer to hire an expert to repair their windows instead. Before making a recommendation an expert in glass can help determine if the windows are repairable. If they need to be replaced, a glass professional will be able to provide high-quality replacements that are not prone to fogging. Double glazing can also cause issues in the opening and closing of doors or windows. 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 talk to the company you purchased it from. The majority of companies have warranties that protect their products for a specific period of time, and some even provide lifetime guarantees. If you cannot resolve the issue with your supplier, it may be time to switch providers. Always ask for an official confirmation of your complaint, as well as any agreements that were made, and the dates. This will allow you to change providers if needed. Foggy windows can be repaired through defogging, a process that involves drilling holes into the window, injecting cleaning solution and then removing the soiled liquid, and drying the inside of the glass. Before you decide to go with this method it is essential to think about whether it's appropriate for your home. It will not, however, restore the energy efficiency that has been lost due to deteriorated 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 crucial to fix the crack as soon as you can to avoid further damage. This is especially important if the crack is in the interior of your glass. Double-paned windows are composed of two glass panes that are assembled together. The space between the panes is filled with inert gases, like argon or krypton. This is done to prevent heat from your house from passing through the glass. The gas slows the heat transfer, so the warm air from your home may travel through the window much more slowly than if there were 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 qualified glazier should install the windows, since they can seal them tightly to ensure maximum insulation. If the seal on the window has failed, the gas inside the panes may leak out and reduce their insulation capabilities, leading to cracking between two panes. Another reason that causes cracked double-pane windows is due to poor installation, which can cause the glass to expand and contracting at different rates. This could cause stress cracks to appear over time, weakening the glass. If this is the case, it's important to find a Glazier who can be capable of replacing the damaged glass pane with one that's more suitable for your home. In the event that you discover a crack in your double-glazed window important to be aware the fact that it can't be fixed by filling in the crack with an adhesive. Double-paned windows depend on a strong seal between the two panes, and cracks can only get worse as time passes. It's essential to keep in mind that handling broken glass is risky It's therefore always recommended to get an experienced glazier who will have the proper tools for the job. They will also be able remove the old sealant from the glass without causing any further damage. Seals that leak A double or triple-pane window is made up of an insulated glass unit (IGU) consisting of three or two sheets of tempered or annealed glass. The IGU is secured by a combination aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents moisture from getting into your home. As time passes the seal may fail and allow the draughts and water to penetrate into your living spaces. Usually, this is caused by the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant, either silicone or polyurethane, can expand and shrink with variations in humidity and temperature, putting the IGU at risk of breaking. If the seal is damaged the insulating fill gas can leak leaving your windows with the appearance of fog and draughts that can reduce the efficiency of your home. If the window seal fails, it may also cause water or condensation to develop between the panes, that you are unable to wipe away. In some instances, water can leave a permanent mark behind on your window glass. In general, you can solve this problem by having your window professionally cleaned. This is a process that requires specialized equipment to eliminate moisture, refill the gap with argon or Krypton gas, and then seal it without letting the gas escape. The cost will vary based on the location you are in and the type of IGU you have, but most double glazed window repair can be completed in an hour or less. You can increase the energy efficiency and comfort of your double-paned windows doing some things, in addition to replacing the seals on your windows. Choose a glass and coating that is energy efficient that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's rayons. This will keep your rooms cooler and more comfortable, as well as improve the appearance of your windows. Use caulk around your window frame to close any gaps that let cold air in and warm air out. In some cases, this is a better alternative to replacing the entire window.