How to Tell If Your Double Glazed Windows Need Repair
Double-glazed windows are a great investment for your home. However, over time they will begin to show signs of wear and wear and tear.
The difficulty of opening and sliding double glazing could be caused by poor sealing which could lead to condensation and draughts. Installing trickle vents can allow fresh air to circulate through the room.
Glass that has cracked
A double-glazed window that cracks suggests that the seal between the two glass panes is broken. This signifies that the window is no longer able to keep out heat or cold and, in extreme instances, the entire unit may require replacement.
Thankfully, damaged windows can be fixed with a few simple steps. If you decide to do the work yourself, be sure you wear eye protection and gloves to handle glass. It is essential to wash all tools prior to making use of them, as cleaning broken glass can be risky. If done incorrectly it could lead to cuts.
It is essential to determine the degree of the crack as well as the source. If the crack was caused by a recent collision or another external cause it's recommended to consult a professional in order to determine if a new window would be better suited to your property.
Once you've determined the root cause of the damage, it's time to start the process of repair. Start by cleaning the cracked glass with a mixture of soapy water. Dip a clean cotton rag into the mixture and gently rub the crack, taking off any dirt or debris that may have got onto the glass.
Applying a strip of masking tape to a fracture is among the simplest ways to stop it from getting any worse. This will stop superficial cracks, like stress-cracks from becoming more serious. It allows the glass to expand or contract without excessive pressure. If the crack is deeper you will need to use stronger tape that is able to withstand greater tension and extends a few inches beyond the crack on both side.
Another option is to use epoxy to cover the crack. However this is a more labor-intensive option, and is best used for more serious cracks. You'll have to clean the crack and the area around it, and get rid of any excess epoxy.
Condensation
Condensation can build up in double-glazed windows due to several different reasons. If you're seeing condensation on the inside surface of the glass, this indicates there's too much moisture in the room and there isn't enough air circulation. This is most common in kitchens and bathrooms where humidity levels are high. It could also happen in the event that you've recently had work done on your home, for example painting and plastering, both of which release massive amounts of moisture.
If the condensation is located between the two glass panes this could be an indication of an issue in your window. The majority of the time, this is caused by a breakdown in the desiccant that is located between the two glass panels. It's a highly absorbent material that takes in any moisture that might enter the gap. If you find even the slightest defect or crack in this area the desiccant will quickly become saturated and moisture appears in the form of condensation.
One method to stop condensation building up in your double glazed windows is by regularly wiping down the internal surfaces of your frames and sills. This is particularly important if you live an region where the weather is double glazing repairs very extreme or has huge temperatures throughout the year.
Using a clean cloth soaked in a solution of warm water and liquid soap can help to clean the surfaces of your double glazed windows. You shouldn't use a colored fabric to clean your double-glazed windows because it can cause stains from dye.
Get in touch with a professional in the event of a misting or condensation problem with your double-glazed window. They can fix the problem in a fraction of the time it would cost to replace the entire window. Their service comes with a 10-year guarantee.
Warping
If your double-glazed windows are bowing, crooking or twisting to such an extent that they're not an ideal fit to the window opening, you need to get them fixed quickly. In a condition will damage their appearance and reduce their value for resales. Your home will also be less efficient because the gaps allow cold, outside air to pass through while heated and cooled inside air escapes.
Condensation in the glass panes is a typical sign of faulty double-glazed windows. This is a sure sign that the seals have been damaged, and the argon gas which prevents cold air from entering your home has been eluded. If the frames are becoming rotten, they also need to be replaced. Rotted frames are not only ugly and can detract from your home's curb appeal, but they also make the windows unsecure, which could be an attractive target for burglars who know that double-glazed windows that are not secured are a good way to gain entry to break into homes.
While it is possible to repair some of these issues, a professional will normally be able to do it much faster and more effectively. They are able to repair broken seals and restore the insulating properties of your double glazed windows. They can also replace the frames rather than only the glass panes which is less expensive.
Many double glazed windows come with warranties of between 10 and 20 years so if you experience issues with them it is worthwhile to contact the company you bought windows from as soon as it is possible. Some companies offer a lifetime guarantee so it is worth examining the coverage of your window before you face any problems.
Oiling hinges, handles and the areas where windows pass into the frame (if it's sash windows) are a few of the easier double glazed window repair methods. This makes windows easier to open and shut and may fix the problem. Certain companies may also drill holes into double glazing that has been misted to remove moisture.
Discolouration
If you notice discoloration of your double-paned windows, this is a sign that it's the right time for them to be replaced. This problem is caused by moisture damage resulting from excess humidity in the indoor environment. The stains are usually streaks of black that appear on the window's surface. They can appear wet but feel dry when they are touched. The stains can appear as white, orange or green. If not treated the discoloration can cause wood rot on windows as well as toxic mold growth and various health issues for household members.
Window discoloration is easily removed using a hog bristle brush liquid window cleaner, Oxalic cleaner. The first step is to remove the dirt that has built up and accumulated on windows. Once the loose dirt has been removed, you can then employ a safety razor to remove the dirt that is thicker. Then, you'll be able to apply the oxalic acid cleaner to remove any remaining remnants. The best way to make sure the issue doesn't recur is to do regular cleaning and maintenance.
Double-paned windows form part of the energy envelope. This is the enclosed enclosure that includes the roof, exterior wall and fenestrations such as skylights, windows and doors to the entrance. They help maintain constant indoor temperatures and decrease air conditioning costs by keeping outdoor temperatures in. If you are concerned about the efficiency of your home's energy use, it is important to fix any issues with your fenestrations immediately.
As double-paned windows age, they are susceptible to developing a range of issues that could hinder their performance and extend their lifespan. The most common problem is a broken seal that causes condensation and other problems. Fortunately, it's often easy to fix these issues by finding the right person for the job.
Although some homeowners are able to tackle a double-glazed window repair task on their own, it's usually better to delegate the task to a qualified professional. This will ensure that the job is done properly and that the double-glazed windows are kept in top condition. Choosing a professional is also important to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Checkatrade's database of verified and dependable tradespeople makes it easy to find the right double-glazed windows repair specialist for your needs.