Seven Reasons To Explain Why Double Glazed Window Repair Is Important
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Double Glazed Window Repairs
The presence of double glazing with damaged seals or defective glass can cause problems like condensation, draughts and leaks. Moisture that accumulates between windows can damage frames and cause rot. It can also be harmful to health as exposure to excessive moisture could cause mould and asthma.
Although it is possible for home owners with good DIY skills to carry out some double-glazed window repairs, in the majority of cases it is better to hire an expert.
Broken Panes
Double pane windows are an feature for any home. However, they can become a nightmare if one of them breaks. A cracked window can cause various issues. From an increase in condensation to higher energy costs it is advised to call a residential glass service as soon as you detect the crack.
A window that is damaged cannot be resealed as the seals have failed. Double pane windows have a space between two glass panes which is filled with inert gases like argon and krypton. These gases slow down heat transfer, making the windows more efficient in energy use than regular glass.
If you find that a double pane window is damaged, take action quickly. If you keep it open for too long the window will lose its insulation properties. It is possible to repair the damage by using an adhesive you put within the crack, based on the severity. It is typically a putty or a tape that prevents the glass from degrading and even shattering.
Before you attempt to replace a broken pane of glass, ensure that you're wearing gloves that are protective and have a large rubble bag ready to place the glass into after it's been removed. You can also tape newspaper to the glass before you attempt to remove it. This will help you catch any fragments that may fall and then dispose of them in a secure manner. After the glass has been removed it is necessary to remove any old glazing putty or the metal glazier's 'points' from the frame, so that the new glass can be inserted.
Condensation
If you see visible condensation in your double glazed windows it's an indication that the seals or gaskets have deteriorated, allowing moisture to get into the space between the panes. This will not only make the windows appear milky but it also reduces their energy efficiency and may lead to increased heating costs.
You can prevent this by cleaning your windows and making sure they aren't soiled or damp. You should also promote air circulation around your home to improve ventilation and prevent excess condensation from forming on the interior of your home such as walls, carpets and furniture. This can be done by not drying washing indoors, avoiding using tumble dryers opening windows to allow trickle vents as often as possible, and ensuring that doors are open inside (when not cooking or showering).
If you've recently had new double glazing installed, or the windows you have are covered by a guarantee, and you need to contact the company who installs them. They will be happy to repair the issue at no extra cost depending on the terms of the warranty. It is crucial to never tamper or modify your double glazing. This could invalidate the warranty and cause further damage.
If you're looking to replace your double-glazed window units it is recommended to upgrade them to A-rated windows. This will improve their insulation and decrease heating bills. It is also worth bearing in the fact that a replacement window may be less expensive than replacing the whole frame if it is damaged. It is possible to fit the unit into an existing frame, if that is a viable option.
Draughts
Double-glazed windows are tough and long-lasting, however they can also be subject to tear and wear. In some instances this can lead to issues that require specific repairs instead of replacing the whole window. Most of these issues can be easy to fix and much less costly than installing a new window.
A common issue is the feeling of cold draughts coming from the windows, especially on windy days. This is often an indication that the seals on the inside of the frame have failed. It could also result by condensation in the space between the two panes. Professional window repair companies will reseal your window in both cases to eliminate the draft and reduce energy costs.
Another indication that your windows require repairs is if they are difficult to open and close them. This could be due to a warped frame or hardware that is damaged, or a the accumulation of dirt. If this is the case, it's essential to have your windows repaired by a professional as soon as you can to avoid pvc window repairs further damage.
If you notice condensation forming between the window panes, this could mean that your seal has been damaged. This can cause dampness in your house. It can also lead to a decrease in the effectiveness of your window, which will increase the cost of heating. If this is the situation you should contact an expert in double glazing repair who can fix the sealed units to restore their effectiveness.
If your double-glazed windows remain covered by warranty, contact the company who supplied them as soon as is possible. Then follow by sending an email or a letter rather than calling or texting. This will ensure that you're covered by your warranty and the issue is addressed promptly.
Leaks
If you notice any moisture or a mist forming between your double-glazed windows it's likely that the seal has developed an air leak. This is a serious issue because it indicates that the gas inert between your glass panes has been released and water is entering your home. This can lead to damp and mould. The good news is this is a simple fix with a professional repair specialist for double glazing.
Leaks around a double-glazed window typically occur in the space between the frame and the sill. This is due to poor window sealant, which is usually a soft or brittle form of caulking. If the caulking around your windows and doors is becoming soft or cracked, it could allow water to enter as the weather changes. It is best to get the caulking replaced or repaired if this happens.
A silicone seal that keeps glass in place can also cause leaks if it is damaged or weakened. This is more frequent with older uPVC windows, but it can occur to modern ones too. This is a sign of a door or window that is not properly maintained. It is recommended to repair it as promptly as you can in order to avoid further damage.
There may also be condensation that forms between your windows which can be frustrating to clean off. This is an indication of a damaged seal between the panes so it is essential to repair it immediately. Unrepaired, this can lead both to leaks and energy loss. There are a few firms that offer to drill into the sealed unit to eliminate the condensation, however this is a temporary solution and can be costly.
Damage
Double glazing is a great way to save on energy as it keeps warm air inside and cold air outside. Over time, double glazing can develop faults that can decrease its efficiency and make it look ugly. The causes could be a broken window pane, a misty glass, or a handle that has broken. The majority of these issues can be fixed, and are typically less expensive than replacing the entire window.
The most frequent issue is damaged seals that connect the two panes. This can be a result of poor installation or the use of chemical cleaning products or simply aging. In this situation, condensation will build up or mist can form between the panes. The glass may be difficult to clean. A repair technician will usually replace the damaged pane of glass, and then seal the gap, removing any lingering moisture that could cause further damage.
Draughts are another common problem with double glazing. It can be caused by a myriad of causes such as the accumulation of dust and dirt around the hinges and locking mechanisms. They can be repaired by a skilled professional using specialist tools to get rid of the build-up of materials and then lubricating all moving parts. This will allow them to work more efficiently and decrease the risk of draughts.
If your double-glazed windows are leaky or have been damaged, it's important to get them repaired quickly. The moisture that enters your home can not only cause damage to furnishings and fabrics, but it can also encourage the growth of mould and rot which can be extremely expensive to fix. To avoid these problems it is recommended you seek the services of a reliable double glazing repair service who can provide quality service at a reasonable cost.