Five Things You Don't Know About Double Glaze Repair
Double Glaze Repair
Modern double glazing keeps us warm and safe but can cause a range of nagging problems over time. These include draughts between the panes as well as condensation and fogging.
Many of these issues are easily solved by a professional. This will allow your window to breathe, enhance the thermal performance of your home, and help you save on heating bills.
Draughts
Double glazing issues are inevitable, regardless of whether you have double glazing made of aluminium or uPVC. They could be minor annoyances like a door or window that gets stuck, a handle or lock issue, or misted glass. However, they could also be more serious problems such as a leaking window that you cannot close or a damaged seal. Some of these can be fixed easily at home, like stuck windows or doors but others will require the expertise of a professional, and may require replacing.
Many of these small problems could be caused by a build-up of condensation which could cause gaps between frames to appear. This can allow cold air to enter your home, increasing your energy bills. This can be remedied by simply wiping the frames with a damp cloth to remove the moisture and then allow the material to shrink back. If this doesn't work then you could consider a draught-exclusion device that is available in various forms, such as brush seals and foam strips that can be slipped into the gap to stop cold air from entering your property.
Leaking windows can be more dangerous and typically occur when the seals between the frame and the opening have been damaged or broken. These can also be repaired by cleaning the drainage area to get rid of any debris, or replacing the seals. It is advisable to check your warranty, as many companies provide a guarantee that covers these types of problem for a period of 10 or 20 years and sometimes up to a lifetime warranty.
After minor issues are fixed, it's worth considering having double-glazed windows professionally draughtproofed. This will improve the insulation of your home, reduce noise and help lower the cost of energy. It will make your home more comfortable and can also stop condensation from forming within the inner pane of your glass units. This can cause damage to seals. You can also upgrade to energy-efficient A-rated glass and cut down on heating costs.
Smudging
Double glazing can increase your home's insulation, making it more comfortable and warm. It is not indestructible and will have to be fixed in time. Many of the issues with double glazing are easily fixed. You don't have to replace all your windows and doors.
Double glazing can be difficult to open and close. It can be due to a variety of factors, such as the frames shrinking or expanding slightly depending on the weather and temperature. The hinges and handles may also become worn out, making it difficult to operate windows and doors.
Smudging is also a problem with double-glazing and this is when a build-up or dirt on the window seals cause them to turn opaque. This is usually caused by condensation between the panes. It is essential to correct the issue before it gets any worse.
A clean, damp cloth can be used to clean window seals. This will remove any dirt or abrasions on the surface and can be used on the inside of the frame as well as on the outside. Avoid using anything that is abrasive to clean the rubber seals, since it may damage them. If you have colored window frames, it's a good idea to apply a cloth that is in line with the color so as not to mark the rubber seals.
Condensation and misting are signs that your double-glazed unit isn't conserving the gases that provide insulation between the panes. This signifies that the window is no longer doing its job, and this can increase your heating bills. This can be very expensive and if you have a window that is not functioning properly, it's important to get it fixed as soon as you can.
Luckily, the majority of double glazing issues can be solved by double glazing repair specialists. They can fix damaged panes, or leaky window glass. They can also upgrade your double glazed units to an energy efficient product that is A-rated which will further reduce your energy bills.
Mist
Double glazing is a fantastic option to create a soundproofing, insulation and look good when it's in good shape. If they are not maintained properly they'll quickly deteriorate and turn hazy or misty. This decreases the efficiency of thermal heating in windows, and also makes them look dirty and ugly.
If double-glazed windows begin to mist it is a clear sign that there is an issue with the seals on the window. It could be due to inadequate installation, deterioration, or even moisture inside the sealed unit (sometimes known as the blown double windows).
The cause of this is often humidity and condensation levels inside the home, however it could also be due to seals that have been worn out. This is most common in older aluminum framed double glazing, but modern plastic framed units do also suffer from this.
It is much cheaper to replace the double-glazed glass than installing new windows. DG Servicing is able to replace the sealed unit, without causing damage to the frame. We also offer a range of replacement options that make your double glazed window look like new.
Some companies claim they can fix the problem by drilling small holes in the window and injecting chemicals to eliminate the condensation and fog. However, this isn't an effective solution for the long-term and may damage the window.
The best advice is to always use approved and experienced fitters when installing double glazed windows and doors. Keep copies of warranties, contracts and evidence of payment. This will be very helpful if you ever have problems with the double glazing. Regular cleaning and maintenance is advised to keep the seals in perfect condition. Follow these simple tips and your double-glazed windows will last for a long time. If you do experience any issues, don't overlook them, as they'll get worse. It is always best to tackle problems early, before they become expensive repairs or replacements.
Condensation
Double glazed windows are insulated by two glass panes separated by a layer of gas, often argon. This improves the energy efficiency of your home by keeping heat inside the colder months. Double glazing can lead to condensation.
Condensation is usually caused by variations in temperature between air and the glazed windowpanes. It can occur at night or during periods of extreme cold. The condensation will then be observed as droplets on the windows' surface. It is, however, not necessarily a sign that your windows are in poor condition. However it is important to know that this could also be an indication of poor ventilation within your home.
Another reason condensation can form is that moisture can get in between the panes your double glazed window. This can lead to a build-up of mould and damp within your home, which can be difficult to eliminate without replacing the windows. If you do experience problems with condensation, it is advisable to contact your installer and file an claim under the warranty that was provided when you purchased your double glazing.
Double-glazed windows that are misty are not just ugly, but they can also decrease the thermal efficiency of your home. This means that your heating will be used to heat the area around the window instead of keeping you warm.
In the majority of instances, a double-glazed window that has become misty is not something that can be fixed, since the seal between the two glass panes has been broken. This is a great opportunity to upgrade to a more energy-efficient window with an A rating.
It is essential to make sure you have the right tools and equipment before you attempt any double glazing repairs yourself. A window cleaning kit is essential for this, and must include some rubber gloves, an ohm test, and a squeegee for getting rid of water. These tools can be used to clean double-glazed windows making sure that they are watertight and that the seals are sturdy. A gasket roller can be used to push new seals in the corners of double glazing.