5 Myths About Double Glazing Window Repairs That You Should Stay Clear Of
How to Fix Common Double Glazing Window Repairs
Double glazing is an excellent option to keep your home warm, but it's not without its faults. Common issues include condensation developing between panes or broken seals. These issues can be solved with a little knowledge.
In general, it's recommended to leave double glazing window repairs to professionals. This will cut down on time and ensure that the repair is completed correctly.
Broken or cracked Panes
A spacer separates the glass panes inside windows with double panes. The spacer is filled with a dense gas or air, which acts as insulation. Double-paned windows are energy efficient due to the fact that they create a tight seal. They also prevent the accumulation of moisture within the home. However, if one these panes is cracked or broken, it should be fixed as soon as is possible. If left unattended cracks will continue expand and let cold air into your home, and warm air out. This can cost you each day.
Double-pane windows are susceptible to cracks or broken in a variety of ways. Double-pane window cracks can be caused by a pebble thrown from your lawnmower or a heavy drink placed on a glass-topped table, or just normal wear and wear and tear. It is essential to repair cracks in double-pane windows as soon as you notice them. This will stop cracks from forming and creating a web of spiders.
To repair a cracked double-pane window, you'll have to take off the old sealant from the frame and glass with scrapers or a putty knife. Heat from a hairdryer, heat gun or other heat source can soften the sealant and make it easier to remove. After the old sealant is removed, you'll have to remove the broken glass from the frame using your hands, taking care not to break any of the other panes of the window. Wear gloves and prepare a container to store the broken glass.
If you decide to replace the broken windowpane, you'll need a new windowpane that is the same size as the original. Once you've located the right replacement, it can be inserted into the frame using plastic spacers and then sealed into place with a fresh coat of sealant. If you're unsure of what to do to replace double-paned windows or want professional assistance, contact a professional who can install windows for you.
Foggy Windows
The reason for the windows to become cloudy is an ineffective seal between two panes. It could be a result from a variety of causes that cause sweat depressurization (a condition where the body cannot release excess heat through the skin) or extreme weather conditions. Winter is the most frequent time for foggy windows, when the cold air outside contrasts with the warmth of the indoors. In summer, it's opposite with hot air colliding with cooler indoors.
The rubber gasket used to seal a double-pane window can deteriorate with time due rain, temperature changes as well as other factors. If the seal breaks, it lets air, water and even insects to get between the glass panes. Fortunately, there are solutions for repair and elimination of fogging.
It is recommended to speak with an expert for double glazing window repairs. These companies will typically offer a warranty on their work, which may last for 10 years or more. Many of these companies utilize a process known as "defogging," which involves drilling small holes into the window and then spraying an anti-fog solution inside the glass. The technicians will create small vents for adequate ventilation, and then fill the holes with clear silicone caulk.
Also, it is essential to ensure that your windows are fitted with drainage holes. This is particularly crucial in winter where there is lots of moisture in the air. The drainage holes let moisture escape so that the double-glazed unit doesn't get damaged. At Ambassador, we ensure that the window frames we fit have these drainage holes and, if they don't, we'll drill new holes prior to fitting replacement windows to prevent future fogging and condensation problems.
Another option to reduce fog is to replace the double pane with an IGU, or insulated glazing unit (IGU). It's not as costly as replacing the entire sash frame, and can be done in a much shorter time frame. It can be a good alternative for those looking to cut back on energy costs and avoid the headache of taking down and replacing old frames for sash.
Water Leaks
If water is leaking around the window and in the walls, it's likely that the sealant is worn down. It's a simple problem to fix. You can apply a fresh caulking layer, but first, you need to remove the old layer of caulking to create a new, smooth surface. This will stop water leaks and decrease the amount of draughts coming from the outside.
It is essential to regularly check the area for leaks, as they might not be obvious. Check the wall above or beneath the window for any water staining. If there aren't any marks, the leak could be coming from the gutters above or roof. It is also worth looking at the dimensions of the gutters to ensure that they are not pushing water into the places where the leaks are occurring.
If you notice water leaks from your double-glazed windows it is likely that the seal has failed. This can cause condensation and the gas that is normally between the panes in order to provide an insulating effect will not be as effective. If this is the case, replacing the glass unit will usually suffice to address the issue and stop your home from feeling cold and drafty.
If you see water leaking from the bottom of your window, this could be an indication that the sill pan is faulty or that the slope of the window sill requires to be adjusted. These issues must be addressed before they cause water getting into the house.
Poor window installation or incorrect gutter size are often the cause of water leaks close to the top. It could also mean that the frame of the window is sagging or the aluminium sections do not fit together correctly. Professionals should repair these issues. In some instances the issue is caused by clogged holes. These holes are designed to let moisture escape from the frames, but if they become blocked they could cause significant damage.
Broken Seals
Modern double and triple pane windows are insulated, which can save homeowners money on their energy bills. These windows have two or more glass panels that are separated by an air space that is sealed by a rubbery elastic sealant known as an Insulating Unit (IGU). Over time the seals could break, causing a range of issues, such as fogging and distortion of the glass. It is crucial to get these issues addressed quickly, as they can result in water damage, higher energy bills, and other problems.
Thankfully, damaged seals are usually a simple repair for a professional window technician. These technicians will remove and defog any condensation between the glass panes, which is typically caused by humidity. This process is referred to as defogging, and it usually takes one hour or less. The IGUs still contain their inert gas, and the original insulation value of the windows cannot be restored by this repair.
Window manufacturers anticipate that their windows will endure lots of wear and tear, from wind, rain and snow to baseballs and birds It's not unusual for the seals on windows to fail as time passes. This is the reason they offer the warranty and guarantee that the window will last for 15-20 years or more. This is why you need to purchase only the best, reputable windows and have them installed by professionals that are able to stand behind their work.
If your window has a damaged seal then you should make an insurance claim to have it repaired or replace at no cost. This is a good option particularly if you're certain that your window was properly installed and does not show any other indications of issues. If you choose to replace the window, the technician will disassemble the sash, then replace the IGU with a replacement that is similar to the original. The technician will then reassemble and place the sash in your home. It may be necessary to replace your entire window if the frame has been damaged.