Double Glaze Repair
Modern double glazing keeps us warm and safe but can cause a range of annoying issues as time passes. These include draughts fogging and condensation between panes.
Many of these issues can be easily fixed by an expert. This allows the window to breathe and enhance the thermal efficiency of your home.
Draughts
Whether you have uPVC, aluminium or timber double glazing, issues with it are bound to develop in time. These can be minor issues like a window or door that sticks, a handle or lock issue or misted glass. However, they could also be more serious issues like a window that is leaking that isn't closed or a broken seal. Some of these are easily repaired at home, such as the case of a window or door that is stuck. Others will require the expertise of a professional and may require replacement.
Many of these small problems can be caused by the build-up of condensation, which could cause gaps between frames to show up. These can lead to cold air leaking into your home and raising your energy costs. This can be easily remedied by simply wiping the frames with a damp cloth to remove the moisture and allow the material to shrink again. If this does not work, you could try using a Draught-Excluder. They come in different forms like brush seals and foam strips that can be slipped into the gap.
Leaking windows can be a more serious issue and can occur when the seals connecting the frame to the aperture have been damaged or deteriorated. These can be fixed by cleaning the drainage part of the window to remove any debris or by replacing the seals. Make sure you check your warranty. Many companies offer a warranty that covers these types problems for a period of 10, 20 or even 30 years, and sometimes even for a lifetime.
It is also worth looking into having your double-glazed windows professionally draught-proofed after any minor problems are resolved. This can increase the insulation of your home, decrease noise and help lower your energy bills. This will make your home more cosy and prevent condensation from forming on the glass panes that are inside of your appliances, which can damage seals. You can also upgrade to energy-efficient A-rated glass and reduce your heating costs.
Smudging
Double glazing can help to improve the insulation of your home, and help keep it more comfortable and warm. It is not indestructible, and will need to be replaced as time passes. Fortunately, the majority of issues that arise with double glazing are easily fixed and there's no need to replace your doors or windows entirely.
One of the main issues that people face with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. It could be due to several factors, such as the frames expanding or shrinking slightly based on weather conditions and temperature. The hinges and handles could also become worn out making it difficult to operate windows and doors.
Smudging is also an issue with double glazing and this is when a build-up or dirt on the window seals causes them to become opaque. This could be because of condensation between the panes, and it's important to have the issue resolved prior to it getting worse.
Window seals can be cleaned very easily using a damp cloth. This will remove surface dirt and abrasions. It can be used both inside and outside of the frame. Avoid using anything that is abrasive to clean the rubber seals, as it could damage them. Choose a fabric that matches your window frames if you have them. This will prevent the rubber seals from being damaged by marks.
Condensation and misting are signs that your double-glazed unit is not conserving the gases that provide insulation between the panes. This can result in higher heating bills because the window isn't performing its job. It can be costly to fix windows that are damaged.
Double glazing repair specialists are able to solve the majority of double glazing problems. They can fix damaged panes, or leaky window glass. They can upgrade your double-glazed units into energy-efficient products, which will also reduce your energy bills.
Mist
Double glazing is an excellent way to make your home soundproof, insulate and look good when it's in good shape. If they're not properly maintained, they'll degrade quickly and start to cloudy or misty. This can reduce the efficiency of thermal heating in windows and also looks shabby and unattractive.
If double-glazed windows begin to mist, this is an indication that the seals aren't working. It could be due to poor installation, deterioration or moisture within the sealed unit (sometimes known as the blown double windows).
The cause of this is usually condensation and humidity levels in the home, however it could also be due to seals that have been worn out. This is a problem that is more common in older double glazing frames made of aluminium. However, modern plastic-framed units also suffer from this.
There is a solution to the problem by replacing the double glazed glass unit, and it's a lot less expensive than installing new windows. DG Servicing can replace the sealed unit without damaging the frame, and we provide an array of alternatives to make your double-glazed windows look brand new.
Some companies claim that they can solve the issue by drilling small holes into the window and injecting chemicals into it to remove the fog & condensation. This is not a permanent fix and could cause damage to your window.
It is best to use only experienced and approved fitters for the installation of your double-glazed windows and doors. Keep copies of your warranties, contracts and evidence of payment. This can be extremely helpful if you ever have issues with your double glazing. Regular cleaning and maintenance is also recommended to ensure that the seals are in perfect condition. Follow these simple tips and your double-glazed windows will last for a long time. Don't ignore any issues because they'll only get worse. It is always best to tackle problems early, before they become costly repairs or replacement jobs.
Condensation
Double-glazed windows are constructed by two glass panes that are separated by a layer of gas typically argon. This can improve the energy efficiency of your home, keeping the heat in during colder months. Double glazing can lead to condensation.
Condensation is typically caused by differences in temperature between the air and the glazed windowpanes. It can occur when it is particularly cold or at night. The condensation appears as tiny droplets on the window surface. Fortunately, this is not necessarily a sign that double glazing windows repair your windows are not functioning properly. It is important to note that this could be a sign of inadequate ventilation.
Another reason condensation can form is that moisture can be trapped between the panes of your double glazed window. This could lead to the growth of damp and mould in your home which may be difficult or impossible to remove without replacing your windows. If you notice that there's a problem, you must contact your installer to make a claim under the warranty you received when you purchased your double glazing.
Double-glazed windows that are misty are not only unsightly however, they also decrease the thermal efficiency of your home. This means your heating is used to warm the area around the window rather than keeping you warm.
In the majority of instances, a double-glazed window that has become misty is not something that can be repaired, as the seal between the two glass panes has broken. This is an excellent opportunity to upgrade to an energy-efficient window that has an A rating.
It is important to ensure you have the right tools and equipment prior to attempting any double glazing repairs yourself. This requires windows that are cleaned, which should contain rubber gloves and a meter to measure the resistance, and the squeegee for removing water. These tools can be used to clean double-glazed windows ensuring that they are watertight and the seals are sturdy. A gasket roller can be used to push seals in the corners of double glazing.