How to Tell If Your Double Glazed Windows Need Repair
Double-glazed windows are a great investment for your home. Over time, they may start to show signs that they are worn out.
A poor seal can cause double glazing to shrink and be difficult to open. This can cause condensation and draughts. One method to stop this is installing trickle vents to let fresh air in rooms.
Cracked Glass
A double-glazed window that cracks indicates that the seal between the two glass panes is broken. This signifies that the window is no longer able keep out cold or heat and, in extreme instances, the entire unit may need replacing.
Windows that have cracked can be easily repaired by following a few simple steps. If you decide to tackle the job yourself, be sure to put on eye protection and gloves for handling glass. It is essential to wash the tools prior to using them, since cleaning broken glass can be dangerous. If done incorrectly it could result in cuts.
It is essential to determine the severity of the crack and its origin. If the crack was caused by a recent collision or another external factor it is recommended to speak with an expert to determine if a new window is more suitable to your home.
It's time to begin the repair after you've determined the source of the damage. To begin, clean over and around the glass pane that is cracked using a soapy water mix. Dip a cotton rag into the mixture and gently rub the crack to clean off any dirt or debris.
Applying a strip of masking tape to a crack is among the simplest methods to stop it from getting any worse. This can prevent superficial cracks, such as stress-cracks from becoming more serious. It allows the glass to expand or contract without putting too much pressure. If the crack is deeper you'll need stronger tape that can withstand greater tension and extends a few inches beyond the crack on both sides.
Another alternative is to apply epoxy to the crack. This is labor-intensive and should only be employed for serious cracks. Again, you'll need to carefully clean over the crack, and remove any excess epoxy from the frame.
Condensation
Condensation can form in double-glazed windows due to various reasons. If you see condensation on the inside of the glass, this means that there is too much moisture and not enough air circulation in the room. This is especially common in bathrooms and kitchens where humidity levels are high. It could also occur when you've had work done to your home, like, plastering and painting, both of which give off large amounts of moisture.
If the condensation is located between the two glass panes then this can also indicate an issue with your window. Most commonly, this is due to a break in the desiccant that is located between the two glass panels. This material is highly absorbent and will soak up any moisture in the gap. If you find even the tiniest flaw or crack in this region, the desiccant quickly becomes saturated and moisture appears in the form condensation.
Regularly wiping down your double-glazed window sills and frames will help prevent condensation from forming. This is especially important if you live an region where the weather is quite extreme or has large temperature fluctuations throughout the year.
You can clean your double-glazed windows by using a cloth that has been soaked in a mixture of warm water and liquid detergent. It's important not to apply a color-coded cloth when doing this, as it can cause stains from dyes on the UPVC surfaces of your frames.
If you have a double-glazed window that is misting or has condensation, contact a professional to resolve the problem. They will be able to solve the issue for a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire window and their service comes with a no-quibble, 10-year guarantee to give you peace of mind.
Warping
If your double-glazed windows are bent, crooking, or twisting to the point that they no longer perfectly fit into the window openings you have to fix them as quickly as possible. In a condition will ruin their appearance and reduce their value for resales. Your home will also be less energy-efficient because the gaps will let cold air from outside to enter while heated and cooled air escapes.
Condensation in the glass panes is a typical indication of defective double-glazed windows. This is a clear indication that the seals have been damaged, and the gas called argon which blocks cold air from entering your home has been eluded. If the frames are becoming rotten, they also need to be replaced. Frames that are rotting are not just ugly and can detract from your home's curb appeal but they also make the windows insecure which can be a real draw for burglars who know that double-glazed windows that are not secured are a perfect way to break into homes.
While it is possible to fix some of these issues, a professional will normally be able to do it much more quickly and effectively. They can repair broken seals and restore the insulation properties of your double-glazed windows. In addition, they often replace the frame rather than just the glass panes which is a lot less expensive.
Many double-glazed windows come with warranties of between 10 and 20 years. If you experience issues with them it is worth getting in touch with the company you purchased windows from as soon as possible. Some businesses offer a lifetime warranty so it's a good idea to check before you run into any problems.
Oiling hinges, handles, and the areas where windows enter the frame (if it's sash windows) are among the easier double glazed window repair methods. This makes windows easier to open and close and may fix the problem. Some companies also drill holes into double glazing that has been misted to eliminate the moisture.
Discoloration
When discoloration appears on the windows of your double-pane, it is a sign that it's time to have them replaced. This problem is caused by water damage that is caused by excess humidity inside. The stains usually appear as black streaks across the window surface, and while they look wet however, they feel dry to the touch. The stains may also appear double glaze repair near me as orange, white or green. If not treated, discoloration can lead to wood rot for the windows, toxic mold growth and various health issues for household members.
Window discoloration is easily removed by using a hog-bristle comb as well as liquid glass cleaner and oxalic acid cleaner. The first step is to loosen the dirt that has accumulated and formed on the windows. After the loose dirt is gone you can employ a safety razor to remove the dirt that is thicker. Then, use the Oxalic cleaner to clean any leftovers. The best way to ensure that the problem doesn't return is to perform regular cleaning and maintenance.
Double-pane windows form part of the energy envelope, which is the insulated enclosure that includes the roof, exterior walls, and Fenestrations (skylights doors, entry doors and windows). They block out the outside temperature and also help maintain a consistent indoor temperature. If you're concerned about the energy efficiency of your home, it's crucial to address any issues with your fenestrations as soon as possible.
As double-pane windows become older, they can develop several issues that can affect their performance and longevity. A damaged seal could result in condensation and other issues. Finding the right expert can often resolve these issues.
While some homeowners may be able to tackle the repair of a double-glazed window on their own, it's usually more effective to leave the job to a skilled professional. This will ensure that the work is done correctly and the double-glazed windows are maintained in quality. It's also important to choose a professional in order to get the best value for your money. Checkatrade's database of vetted and dependable tradespeople makes it easy to find the right double-glazed windows repair specialist for your needs.