Why It's Important to Have Your Double Glazed Windows Repaired
Over time, double glazing can develop a variety of problems. These include condensation between panes and fog that blocks the view or obscuring sunlight.
Fortunately, many of these issues can be resolved without the cost associated with replacement windows. Whether you're saving money on your energy bills or increasing the value of your house, fixing your double glazing is worth it.
Damaged Panes
A double pane window has two glass panels, with an insulating space between them. The space is usually filled with an inert gas such as argon or krypton to reduce the flow of heat through the window. This provides increased energy efficiency. It is crucial to repair any damaged glass panes as fast as you can 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 has been broken. This could be due to various reasons, including direct sunlight or extreme temperature fluctuations. After the seal has been broken, moisture gets in and eventually develops into condensation. This makes it difficult to see through the window and may cause damage inside the frame.
To fix the problem, you'll need take off the old sealant along the edges of the windows. You'll need a scraper or putty knife to get rid of the old adhesive and caulking. Use a hairdryer, or heat gun to soften sealant. Be careful not to overheat glass or the frame. After removing the old adhesive, you can re-caulk the window's edge.
You can also try a defogging process that involves running water or a different vapor across the inside of the window to eliminate any condensation. The reviews of this method aren't all positive, however, and it might not restore the original insulating value of the window. In most instances, you'll need to replace the damaged pane of glass with a new one from a specialized business.
Double pane windows are usually designed specifically for your home, so you'll need to speak with an expert in window design to assist you in replacing your glass. They will measure your existing frame to ensure you get the right size of glass. Then, they'll replace the damaged pane and make sure everything is well-sealed and airtight. They'll also provide an assurance that you're satisfied with their work.
Condensation
If you see condensation forming between the panes of your double glazing, it could be a very frustrating issue. Particularly since the appearance of this condensation will suggest that heat is being emitted from your home. In the long run, it can be very expensive to fix. There are steps you can take to minimize the formation of condensation. These include regular cleaning and ventilation. If you can, open the doors and windows frequently to allow air circulation. Utilizing extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms are also beneficial. Ventilation is essential to preventing condensation in the home - it is caused by humidity and if the moisture cannot escape it will form on cold surfaces such as mirrors, double glazing and glass.
Condensation in double-glazed windows is typically caused by problems with the "spacer bar', which is located between the panes of glass. This is typically filled with desiccant, a very absorbent material that soaks up any moisture that may be trapped in the air gap between each window. However, even the tiniest flaw in the seal may cause the desiccant to get saturated and no longer be in a position to hold moisture. In the end, this moisture will then appear as condensation between the window panes.
In the case of severe condensation, it could be required to replace the sealed unit entirely. A professional should be called to ensure that the procedure is done correctly. The technician will use a drill to remove the excess moisture, and then seal the holes completely or apply an anti-fog coating to allow air flow.
If your double glazing falls under warranty, you should contact the company that installed it. They should be able solve the issue at no cost. If not, then you'll need to locate a reliable repair service for your double glazing that can offer an alternative unit at an affordable price. This is generally the cheapest solution to deal with this type of condensation. In many cases, it is more effective than replacing the entire window.
Draughts
Double glazing helps you reduce your energy bills by keeping warm air inside the house and cold air outside. However, over time, it may be damaged and require repairs to be done. This could indicate that you should replace your windows. This will ensure that your property is as energy-efficient as possible and also provide a comfortable living space.
Condensation and damaged seals can create drafts. Check that the frame isn't developing cracks or chips. If you notice a draught it could indicate that the seal around the window has broken down, which means cold air is entering your home. This can lead to an increase in heating costs and be uncomfortable.
If you own UPVC windows, it is crucial to maintain them regularly to prevent draughts happening. If you don't oil the hinges on a regular basis, they will begin to stiffen and this can create a gap in which air can escape. Another common cause of draughts is that the window sash has dropped and this can cause discomfort and a loss of effectiveness.
If you spot a draft, it's crucial to contact a double-glazing repair service as soon as possible. This will ensure that they're capable of fixing the issue. The repair service will help you determine the root of the draught, and repair any worn or damaged parts. In some instances the work needed to correct the issue may be as easy as filling any gaps between the frame and the wall.
The glass's mist could also indicate that the double glazing is not working effectively and that it is in need of replacement. In this situation you could choose to replace the entire window or just the sealed units. You can also upgrade to energy efficient windows A-rated by replacing the old ones. This will enhance their performance and allow you to save money on energy bills.
A damaged window lock is another problem that could arise from double glazing. This is a serious security issue that could make your home vulnerable to burglars and could also cause a breach in your insurance coverage. It is essential to locate a reputable and trustworthy company that offers double repair of your glazing to ensure you are sure of the security of your home.
Security
Double-glazing is an excellent way to cut your energy bills by preventing hot air from exiting from the building and cold air from coming into. It also helps reduce noise levels, particularly if you live in a noisy area or near the motorway.
However, over time double glazing may begin to show signs of problems. It could be that the doors or the windows become stiffer, allowing drafts into the house or fail to shut properly. Certain of these issues are fixable without replacing the entire unit.
It is best to first seek the assistance from a professional as they will quickly spot the issue and correct it. This will prevent it from getting worse and will help you save time and money in the long time. It is often possible to fix a door or window that is hard to open by cooling it down and applying the lubricant. This will remove any stiffness from the handle or locking mechanism. If this doesn't work, it may be time to replace the locking mechanisms or handles altogether.
Condensation between glass panes is another common issue. This is caused when the insulating gas inside the glass becomes depleted, leading to the moisture of the atmosphere seeping in through the gaps. This is an normal process that will occur over time. However you can stop it by cleaning your windows regularly and using a condensate cleaner.
It is normal for older double-glazed windows to develop large gaps between the frames or leaves. This could allow rainwater and heat loss into the home. This is an indication that the seals are failing and it's time to buy 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 to burglars. But, repair double glazing is crucial to consider upgrading your locks to a higher quality so that they are more resistant to attempts at forced entry. Owen's Double Glazing Lock Repairs specialise in fitting high security window and door locks to ensure that your Portsmouth home is secure and has no points of entry.