How to Tell If Your Double Glazed Windows Need Repair
Double-glazed windows are a fantastic investment for your home. However, with time they will begin to show signs of wear and wear and tear.
Insufficient sealing can cause double glazing to shrink and have difficulty opening. This can cause condensation and drafts. Installing trickle vents allows fresh air to enter the room.
Cracked Glass
If a double-glazed window cracks it's a sign that the insulating seal between the two glass panes has broken. This means the window can no longer block heat and cold. In the most extreme instances, it could be required to replace the entire unit.
Cracked windows can be easily repaired by following the steps below. If you decide to tackle the task yourself, make sure you prioritize your safety by laying down a sheet of cloth or tarp to catch any shards that might fall, and wearing appropriate safety glasses and eye protection gloves. You should also make sure to clean the tools you'll be using before handling them, as cleaning the broken glass is hazardous and if not done properly, could cause cuts.
It's important to analyse the extent of the crack and the source. If the crack is caused by a recent incident or another external factor it's recommended to consult a professional in order to determine if a new window is more suitable to your property.
It's time to begin the repair process after you've identified the cause of the damage. Start by cleaning the cracked glass using a mixture of soapy water. Dip a cotton rag in the mixture and gently rub the crack to remove any dirt or debris.
Applying a strip of masking tape to a crack is among the simplest ways to stop it from getting worse. This can prevent superficial cracks, like stress cracks from becoming more serious by allowing the glass to expand and contract without putting too much pressure on it. If the crack is larger, you'll need to use a stronger tape that is able to withstand more tension and extend a few inches over the crack on both sides.
Another option is to use epoxy to cover the crack. However this is a much more labour-intensive option and it's best used for more serious cracks. It is necessary clean the crack as well as the surrounding area and get rid of any excess epoxy.
Condensation
Double-glazed windows can develop condensation due to a variety of reasons. If you're seeing condensation on the inside of the glass, it indicates there's too much moisture in the room and little air circulation. This is especially common in kitchens and bathrooms where humidity levels are high. It can also happen when you've recently completed work on your home. For instance plastering and painting both release large quantities of water.
If the condensation is in between the two glass panes then this can also indicate an issue with your window. This is typically caused by a break in the desiccant found in the air gap between the two glass panes. It is extremely absorbent and will soak up any moisture in the gap. If even the slightest crack or flaw is discovered in this part of your window, then the desiccant will soon become saturated and the moisture will begin to appear as condensation.
One way to prevent condensation from building up in your double glazed windows is to regularly wipe down the internal surfaces of your frames and sills. This is particularly crucial if you live in an area with extreme weather or large temperature fluctuation.
Utilizing a cloth submerged in a solution consisting of warm water and liquid soap will assist to clean the surface of your double-glazed windows. It is not recommended to use a color-coated fabric to clean your double-glazed windows since this could cause stains from dye.
Contact a professional for help if you're experiencing a misting or condensation problem with your double-glazed window. They will be able to fix the problem for a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window. Additionally, their service is backed by a no-quibble 10 year warranty for your peace of assurance.
Warping
If your double glazed windows are bowing, crooking or twisting so much that they're not a perfect fit to the window opening, you have to fix them quickly. Leaving your windows in this condition will ruin their appearance and decrease their resale value. Your home will also be less efficient because the gaps let cold, outside air to enter while heated and cooled air will escape.
The most common sign that your double glazed windows have gone wrong is the presence of condensation between the glass panes. This is a sign that the seals are damaged and that the argon gas that stops cold from entering your home is escaping. Also, if the frames are beginning to rot, it's also a sure sign that they need replacing. The frames that are rotting not only look bad and detract from the appearance of your home However, they can make windows less secure. This is a big draw for burglars as they are aware that double-glazed windows with no security are a great way to get into homes.
While it is possible to fix some of these issues but a professional will usually be able to complete the task much more quickly and efficiently. They can usually repair the broken seals and restore the insulating properties of your double-glazed windows. They can also replace the frames rather than just the panes of glass which is more affordable.
Many double-glazed windows come with warranties of 10 to 20 years. If you have a problem with them, it's worth getting in touch with the company you purchased windows from as soon as you can. Some companies offer a lifetime guarantee so it is always worth checking what yours covers before you experience any issues.
Some of the more straightforward double glazed window repairs include oiling hinges, handles, and areas where windows go through the frame (if they are sash windows). This can make them from becoming sloppy to open and close and could solve the issue. Certain companies may also drill holes into double glazing that have been misted to remove the moisture.
Discoloration
If you notice discoloration in your double-paned windows, this is a sign that it's time for them to be replaced. The reason for this is water damage that is caused by excess indoor humidity. The stains typically appear as black streaks on the window's surface. And while they look wet, they feel dry to the touch. The stains can also appear as orange, white or green. If not treated, the discoloration could lead to wood rot in the windows or doors, toxic mould growth and other health issues.
Window discoloration can be easily removed using a hog bristle brush liquid window cleaner and oxalic cleaner. The first step is removing the dirt that has accumulated and accumulated on windows. Once the loose dirt is gone you can make use of a safety razor remove the dirt that is thicker. Then, use the oxalic cleaner to remove any remnants. The best way to ensure that the problem doesn't come back is to conduct regular cleaning and maintenance.
Double-paned windows are part of the energy envelope. This is the insulated enclosure which includes the roof, exterior wall and Fenestrations like skylights, windows and doors to the entrance. They block out the outside temperature and help maintain the indoor temperature in a constant manner. If you're concerned about the energy efficiency of your home, it's important to address any problems with your fenestrations as soon as possible.
As double-paned windows get older, they are susceptible to developing a range of issues that can affect their performance and lifespan. The most common problem is a broken seal, which causes condensation and other issues. Fortunately, it's often easy to fix these issues by locating the right expert for the job.
While some homeowners are willing to tackle the repair of a double-glazed window on their own, it's normally better to delegate the job to a skilled professional. This will ensure that the job is done correctly and that double-glazed windows remain in good condition. Selecting a professional is essential to ensuring that you're double glaze repair getting the most value for your money. Checkatrade's database of verified and dependable tradespeople will help you find the right double-glazed window repair specialist for your needs.