Why It's Important to Have Your Double Glazed Windows Repaired
Double glazing can develop issues over time. This includes condensation between panes and fog that blocks the view or blocking sunlight.
Thankfully many of these issues can be resolved without the cost associated with replacement windows. You can save money on your energy bills or increasing the value of your house, fixing your double glazing is well worth the cost.
Panes that are damaged Panes
A double-pane window comprises two glass panels that have an insulating space between them. The space between the two glass panels is filled with an inert, typically argon or Krypton gas that slows down the heat transfer through the window. This increases energy efficiency. It is essential to fix any damaged glass panes as quickly as you can in order to avoid weather issues and safety hazards.
If a double-pane window gets cloudy, it is a sign that the seal between the panes has broken. This can be due to many factors, like intense sunlight or extreme temperature variations. When repairing double glazing is damaged, moisture enters and forms condensation. This makes it hard to see outside the window and can cause a lot of damage to the frame and may cause wood rot.
To resolve the issue it is necessary to remove the old sealant from the edges of the window. You will need to use the scraper or putty knife to remove the old adhesive and caulking. Use a hairdryer or heat gun to soften sealant. Be cautious not to overheat the glass or the frame. Once the old adhesive has been gone, you can put a new caulk around the edge of the window.
You can also try a defogging method that involves running water or other vapors across the inside of the window to remove any condensation. The opinions about this method aren't all positive, however, and it might not be able to restore the original insulation value of the window. In the majority of instances, it is recommended to replace the damaged glass by a brand new one from an expert company.
Double pane windows are typically custom-designed for your home, which means you'll need to talk to a specialist in windows to assist you in replacing your glass. They'll measure your existing frame to ensure that you get the right size of glass. Then, they'll replace the damaged glass and ensure that everything is airtight and sealed properly. They'll also provide a warranty to ensure you're certain of the quality of their work.
Condensation
Condensation between the double-glazed panes can be a nagging issue. This is because the moisture may signal that heat is being emitted from your home. In the long run, this could be very expensive to fix. There are a few steps you can take to minimise the likelihood of condensation forming. Regular cleaning and ventilation are two of the most important. If possible, try to open doors and windows regularly so that air can circulate. Using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms will also be helpful. Ventilation is the key to preventing condensation in the home - it is caused by humidity. If the moisture cannot escape it will form on cold surfaces, such as double glazing, mirrors and glass.
Typically, condensation in double glazing will be due to a problem with the "spacer bar' that is located between the window panes. This is usually filled with desiccant, a very absorbent material that soaks up any moisture that may be trapped in the 'air gap' between the windows. The seal can be saturated if inadequate. The moisture is visible as condensation on the window's glass.
If there is severe condensation, it might be necessary for the sealed unit to be replaced completely. A professional should be consulted to ensure that the procedure is done properly. The technician will make use of a drill to get rid of the excess moisture. They then either seal the holes completely or apply an anti-fog coat to allow air flow.
If your double glazing is still under warranty, you must contact the company that installed it as they will be able to resolve the issue free of charge. If you are unable to locate a company that can fix your double glazing, you will have to search for a reputable company who can replace the unit at a reasonable cost. This is the most affordable method to fix this type condensation. In many cases it is an alternative to having to replace the entire window.
Draughts
Double glazing keeps warm air inside the home while keeping cold air out, assisting you reduce your energy bills. In time, however, it may develop problems needing repairs. This could indicate that you should replace the windows altogether. This will ensure that your property is as energy-efficient as possible and you will have a comfortable living space.
Condensation and damaged seals could cause a draft. Verify that the frame has not developed any cracks or chips. A draught could mean that the seal around your window has failed, allowing cold air to infiltrate your home. This can result in an increase in heating costs and could be uncomfortable.
If you have UPVC windows then it is important to maintain them regularly to prevent draughts happening. If you do not oil the hinges regularly they'll begin to stiffen up and create a gap through which air can escape. Another reason for draughts is windows sash that has fallen. This can cause discomfort and a loss in efficiency.
If you notice a draft, it is essential to contact a double glazing repair service as quickly as you can. This will ensure that they're competent to resolve the issue. The repair service can help you determine the cause of the draught and repair any worn or damaged parts. In some instances, the repair work may be as simple as filling any gaps between the frame and the wall.
Double glazing that is not functioning properly could cause the glass to fog up. You could replace the entire window or only the sealed units. A replacement also gives you the an opportunity to upgrade your windows to energy efficient A-rated ones, improving their performance and assisting you in saving the cost of your energy bill.
A broken window lock is another issue that can arise with double glazing. This is a serious security risk that could leave your home vulnerable to intruders and could cause a breach in your insurance coverage. It is essential to locate a reputable and reputable company that can provide double glazing repairs to ensure you are secure in the security of your home.
Security
Double-glazing is an excellent way to cut your energy bills by preventing hot air from escaping from the building and cold air coming into. It also reduces the noise, particularly if you live near a motorway or in a busy neighborhood.
However, with time, double glazing may begin to exhibit issues. It could be that the doors or the windows become stiff, allowing drafts to enter the home or fail to close properly. In some cases, these problems can be solved without the need for replacement of the whole unit.
It is best to seek out the help of a professional, since they will quickly spot the problem and fix it. This will stop the issue from getting worse and save you time and money in the long run. A window or door that is difficult to open can be fixed by simply cooling it down and applying some grease. This will eliminate any stiffness that is present in the handle or locking mechanism. If this isn't working, it could be time to replace the locking mechanism or handles completely.
Another common problem is condensation between the panes of glass. This happens because the gases that insulate the glass are diminished. The water from the air then gets into the glass through the gaps. This is an normal process that happens over time. However you can avoid it by cleaning your windows regularly and using a condensate cleanser.
It is normal for older double-glazed windows that develop large gaps in the frames or leaves. This could allow the loss of heat and rainwater into the home. This is a sign that the seals have failed and it's time to invest in new windows that have better insulation and lower energy bills.
Double-glazed windows and doors are very difficult to break into and can be an effective deterrent for burglars. However, it is important to consider upgrading your locks to higher quality as these will be more resistant to attempts to gain entry. Owen's Double Glazing Lock Repairs specialise in fitting high security door and window locks to ensure that your Portsmouth home has no easy points of entry.