Why It's Important to Have Your Double Glazed Windows Repaired
Double glazing may cause issues over time. This can include condensation between the panes, and mist that blocks the view or sunlight.
Many of these issues can be resolved without the need for replacement windows. If you're looking to save money on energy bills or enhancing the resale value of your home, fixing your double glazing is well worth the expense.
Damaged Panes
A double-paned window is comprised of two glass panels with an insulating space in between. The space is typically filled with an inert gas, like argon or Krypton to limit the flow of heat through the window. This improves energy efficiency. It is important to repair any damaged glass panes as quickly as possible in order to avoid weather problems and safety hazards.
If a double-pane window gets cloudy, it is a sign that the seal between the panes is broken. This could be due to various reasons, including direct sunlight or extreme temperature changes. When the seal is damaged the moisture gets in and creates condensation. This could make it difficult to see through the window, and can cause damage to the frame.
To resolve the issue, you'll have to take off the old sealant along the edges of the windows. You'll need a scraper or putty knife to remove the old adhesive and caulking. Make use of a hairdryer or a heat gun to soften sealant. Be careful not to overheat glass or the frame. After you have removed the old adhesive, you can re-caulk the edge of the window.
You can also employ the defogging technique that involves running water (or another liquid) across the inside of your window to get rid of any condensate. Reviews of this method are mixed, however, and it may not be able to restore the original insulation value of the window. In the majority of cases, it's best to replace the damaged glass with a new one purchased from an expert company.
As double pane windows are custom made for your home, you'll need a window specialist who can assist you in replacing the glass. They will take your frame and measure it to ensure that you get the proper size of glass. Then, double glazing windows repairs 'll replace the damaged glass and make sure everything is airtight and sealed properly. They'll also offer a guarantee so that you can feel confident in the quality of their work.
Condensation
Condensation in the double-glazed panes can be a frustrating problem. This is because the condensation could be a sign that heat is escaping from your home. It could also be expensive in the long run to repair. There are steps you can take to minimise the likelihood of condensation forming. This includes regular cleaning and ventilation. If you can, open the doors and windows frequently to let air circulate. Extractor fans can be used in bathrooms and kitchens. Ventilation is crucial to preventing condensation from the household which is caused by humidity and if the moisture cannot escape, it will develop on cold surfaces such as mirrors, double glazing and glass.
Condensation in double glazing is usually due to problems with the "spacer bar' that sits between the window panes. This is usually filled with desiccant, an absorbent material that soaks up any moisture from the air gap' between the windows'. The seal may be saturated if not perfect. This moisture appears as condensation on the window panes.
In the event of extreme condensation, it could be required for the sealed unit to be replaced completely. A professional should be sought to ensure the process is carried out correctly. The technician will drill holes to remove the excess moisture. Then, they will either seal up these holes or fit an anti-fog layer that allows air to flow through the unit.
If your double glazing still is covered by warranty, you should contact the company that installed it. They should be able to resolve the issue at no cost. If not, then you will need to find a reputable double glazing repair company that can offer an alternative unit at a reasonable price. This is generally the cheapest method to repair this kind of condensation. In many cases it is an alternative to having to replace the entire window.
Draughts
Double glazing helps you reduce your energy bills by keeping warm air inside the house and cold air outside. However in time, it can become damaged and repairs to be done. This can be a sign that you need to replace the windows completely. This will make your home as energy efficient as it can be and comfortable.
Damaged seals and condensation can result in a draft. You should check that the frame is intact and that no cracks or chips have formed. A draught could mean that the seal around your window has broken, allowing cold air to infiltrate your home. This can lead to an increase in heating costs and can cause discomfort.
If you own UPVC windows, it is crucial to maintain them regularly to prevent draughts from happening. If you don't oil the hinges on a regular basis, they will start to stiffen and this can create a gap through which air can escape. Another reason for drafts is the window sash has collapsed. This can also cause discomfort and a loss in efficiency.
If you notice a draught, it is important that you call a double glazing repair service as soon as possible to ensure they can fix the problem for you. The repair service will help you identify the cause of the draught and replace any worn or damaged parts. In some cases repairs could be as simple as filling any gaps between the frame and the wall.
Glass that is smudges could also indicate that the double glazing isn't functioning properly and requires replacement. You could replace the entire window or just the sealed units. A replacement can also give you the an opportunity to upgrade your windows to energy efficient A-rated ones, increasing their efficiency and helping you to save the cost of your energy bill.
Another problem with double glazing that could occur is a broken window lock. This is a major security problem that could make your home vulnerable to intruders and could also cause a breach in your insurance coverage. It is recommended to choose a reputable business to repair your double glazing to ensure that you are confident in the security of your home.
Security
Double-glazing can help you save money on your energy bills since it stops hot air from leaving and cold air from entering. It can also reduce noise, especially if you are near a motorway, or in a busy neighborhood.
However, over time double glazing can begin to have problems. This may include the doors or windows becoming stiff, allowing drafts into the property or failing to shut properly. Certain of these issues can be solved without replacing the entire unit.
First of all, it is recommended to seek out the help of an expert as they can find the problem and solve it quickly. This will prevent the issue from getting worse, and you'll save time and stress. Most of the time, a window or door that is difficult to open can be fixed by cooling it down and applying some lubricant. This will fix any stiffness in the handle or lock mechanism. If this doesn't solve the issue, it could be time to replace your locking mechanism or handles.
Another issue that is common is condensation between the glass panes. This happens when the insulating gas inside the glass depletes which results in the moisture of the atmosphere getting into the glass through the gaps. This is a normal process that occurs over time. However you can avoid it by cleaning your windows regularly and using a condensate cleaner.
Older double-glazed windows will often develop wide gaps in the frames and leaves which can let rainwater in the building, as well as loss of heat. This is a sign that the seals have failed and it's time to buy new windows that are more insulated and lower energy costs.
Double-glazed doors and windows are extremely difficult to get into and are often a deterrent to burglars. However, it is important to consider upgrading your locks to higher quality, as they will be more resistant to attempts at forced entry. Owen's Double Glazing Lock Repairs specialize in installing high security window and door locks to ensure that your Portsmouth home has no easy entry points.