Double Glaze Repair
Modern double glazing is secure and warm, but it can also develop a variety of annoying issues over time. These can include draughts, fogging and condensation between panes.
Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be resolved by a professional. This allows the window to breathe and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Draughts
Double glazing problems are inevitable, whether you have aluminium or uPVC double glazing. They can be minor irritations like a door or window that is stuck or a lock or handle issue or misted glass. However, they could also be more serious problems such as a leaky window that isn't closed or a broken sealing. Some of these issues can be repaired at home, for instance windows or doors that is stuck. Others will require the expertise of a professional and may even require replacement.
These little issues are typically caused by a buildup condensation that could cause gaps to develop between the frames. This can result in cold air leaking into your home, causing a rise in energy bills. It is easy to fix this by wiping the frames down with a damp towel to remove moisture and allow the frame to shrink. If this doesn't work, you can try an Draught-Excluder. These are available in different forms like foam strips and brush seals that can be slipped into the gap.
Leaking windows can be more severe and are usually the result of seals between the frame and the opening have been damaged or broken. They can also be fixed by cleaning out the drainage area to eliminate any debris, or replacing the seals. Check your warranty. Many businesses offer a guarantee that covers these types problems for a period of 10, 20 or even 30 years, and sometimes even the entire life of the window.
It's also worth thinking about having your double glazed windows professionally draught-proofed after any minor issues have been addressed. This can improve the insulation of your home, reduce noise and help lower your energy bills. It will make your home more comfortable. It can also stop condensation from forming within the panes of your glass units which could cause damage to the seals. You could also consider upgrading to energy-efficient glazing A-rated and cut down on heating costs.
Smudging
Double glazing can enhance the insulation of your home, and help keep it warmer and more comfortable. However, it's not indestructible and over time it'll require repair. Fortunately, many of the issues that arise with double glazing can be easily solved and there's no need to replace your windows or doors altogether.
Double glazing can be difficult to open and close. This can be down to a few factors, like the frames shrinking and expanding slightly with the temperature and weather. The hinges and handles can be worn out making it difficult to operate windows and doors.
Smudging can also be a problem with double glazing and this happens the result of a build-up of dust or dirt on the window seals cause them to turn opaque. This could be the result of condensation in between the panes and it's important to have the issue resolved before it gets worse.
Window seals can be cleaned very easily using a damp cloth. This will get rid of surface dirt and abrasions. They can be used both inside and outside the frame. It is important to avoid using any material that is abrasive to the rubber seals, however they could be damaged by them. If you have window frames it's best to use a cloth that matches the colour so as not to scratch the seals' rubber.
Condensation and misting are signs that the double-glazed window isn't conserving the gases that provide insulation between the panes. This signifies that the window isn't doing its job and can result in an increase in the cost of heating. This can be very costly and if you have a faulty window then it's important to get it repaired as soon as possible.
Double glazing repair specialists are able to solve the majority of problems with double glazing. They can fix broken panes, draughty windows, and even foggy window glass. They can also upgrade your double glazed units to an energy efficient product that is A-rated which will reduce your energy bills.
Mist
Double glazing is a great way to create a soundproofing, insulation and look good when it's in good condition. However, if not properly maintained, they can degrade quickly and turn cloudy or misty. This decreases the thermal efficiency of the windows, and also makes them look dirty and unsightly.
Double-glazed windows start to mist, it is an indication that the seals are not working properly. It could be due to poor installation, deterioration or moisture within the sealed unit (sometimes known as the blown double glazed window).
It can be caused by worn-out seals or humidity levels in the home. This is most common in older aluminium framed double glazing, however modern plastic-framed units can have issues with this.
It is a lot less expensive to replace the double-glazed glass unit rather than to install new windows. DG Servicing can replace the sealed unit without damaging the frame, and we provide an array of alternatives to make your double-glazed windows appear new.
Some companies claim they can resolve the issue by drilling small holes in the window and injecting chemicals to eliminate the condensation and fog. This is not a permanent solution and can damage your window.
The best advice is to use only approved and experienced fitters to install double glazed windows and doors, and keep copies of warranties, contracts and evidence of payment. This can be extremely helpful if you ever have problems with the double glazing. Regular cleaning and maintenance is also advised to keep the seals in good condition. Follow these easy tips and your double-glazed windows will last for a long time. Don't ignore any issues because they'll only get worse. It's always better to fix them early on before they become expensive repairs or even an entire replacement.
Condensation
Double-glazed windows are insulated by two glass panes that are separated by a gas layer usually argon. This can improve the efficiency of your home, allowing the heat in during colder months. Double glazing can cause condensation.
Condensation is usually caused by variations in temperature between air and the window panes that are glazed. It can occur when it is particularly cold or at night. The condensation appears as tiny drops on the window's surface. This isn't necessarily a sign that your windows need to be replaced. It is important to remember that this could also be a sign of inadequate ventilation.
Moisture can also be trapped between the panes of the double-glazed windows. This can then cause the growth of damp and mould within your home, which can be difficult to get rid of without replacing the windows. If you notice that there's a problem, you must contact your installer to make a claim under the warranty you were given when you bought your double-glazed.
Double-glazed windows that are hazy may reduce the efficiency of your home's heating and cooling. This means that your heating is used to warm the area around the window instead of keeping you warm.
In the majority of instances, a double-glazed window that has gotten cloudy is not something that can be fixed, since the seal between the two glass panes has broken. However, it could be a good opportunity to upgrade your windows to an energy efficient unit.
Before double glazing repairers attempt to repair double glazing yourself, it is important that you have the proper tools and equipment. A window cleaning kit is essential to do this, and should include some rubber gloves, an ohm tester, and a squeegee for getting rid of water. These tools can be used to clean double-glazed windows, to ensure that they are watertight as well as the seals are durable. You can also employ a gasket roller assist in pushing new seals into the corners of your double glazing.