How to Tell If Your Double Glazed Windows Need Repair
Double glazed windows are a fantastic investment for your home. As time passes, they could begin to show signs of they are worn out.
A poor seal can cause double glazing to sag and be difficult to open. This can cause condensation and draughts. Installing trickle vents allows fresh air to enter the room.
Cracked glass
If a double-glazed windows cracks it's a sign that the insulating seal between two glass panes has broken. This indicates that the window is no longer able keep out cold or heat and, in extreme instances the entire unit could need replacing.
Thankfully, cracked windows can be fixed by following a few easy steps. If you decide to tackle the task yourself, you must always consider your safety by placing down a sheet of cloth or tarp to keep any shards of glass that fall and then putting on eye protection and glass handling gloves. You should also make sure to clean the tools you'll be using before handling them, as cleaning off broken glass can be dangerous and if not done correctly, may cause cuts.
It is essential to determine the extent of the crack as well as the cause. If it's caused by an incident in the past or another external trigger the best solution is to consult an expert to determine what kind of window that will better fit your home.
Once you've determined the cause of the damage, it's time to start the process of repair. Start by cleaning the cracked glass with a mixture of soapy water. Dip a clean cotton rag into the mixture and gently rub it over the crack, taking off any debris or dirt that has got onto the glass.
One of the simplest ways to stop cracks from becoming more severe is by applying a strip of masking tape over it. This will stop superficial cracks, like 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 is able to withstand greater tension and extends a few inches beyond the crack on both side.
Another option is to use epoxy to cover the crack. However this is a more labor-intensive method and is recommended for more serious cracks. You'll need clean the crack as well as the area around it, and get rid of any excess epoxy.
Condensation
Condensation can build up in double glazed windows for many different reasons. If you notice condensation on the inside of the glass then this indicates there's too much moisture in the room and not enough air circulation. This is particularly common in bathrooms and kitchens where humidity levels are naturally high. It could also happen when you've completed work on your home, for example painting and plastering, both of which give off huge amounts of moisture.
If the condensation is between the two glass panes, it could also be an indication of problems with your window. This is most commonly caused by a break in the desiccant that's found within the 'air gap' between the two glass panes. It's a highly absorbent material that soaks up any moisture that may enter the gap. If even the tiniest scratch or flaw is detected in this part of your window, then the desiccant is likely to become saturated and moisture will begin to show up as condensation.
One method to stop condensation from forming in your double-glazed windows is by regularly wiping off the inside surfaces of your sills and frames. This is especially important if you reside in an area with extreme weather conditions or huge temperature fluctuations.
You can clean your double-glazed windows using a clean cloth soaked in a mixture of warm water and liquid detergent. You shouldn't use a color-coated fabric to clean your double glazed windows because it can cause staining of dye.
If you have a double-glazed window that is leaking or experiencing condensation you should call in the professionals to resolve the problem. They can fix the problem at a fraction of what it would cost to replace the entire window. Their service also comes with a 10-year guarantee.
Warping
If your double-glazed windows are bending, crooking, or twisting so much that they no longer perfectly fit into the window openings you need to fix them quickly. Leaving your windows in this condition will damage their appearance and decrease their resale value. Your home will also be less efficient because the gaps will let cold, outside air to pass through while heated and cooled inside air will escape.
Condensation between the glass panes is a common sign of defective double-glazed windows. This indicates that the seals have been damaged and the argon gas, which stops cold from entering your home is escaping. If the frames are becoming rotten and need to be replaced, they must be replaced. Frames that are rotting don't just appear ugly and impede the appearance of your home However, they can also make windows less secure. This is a major attraction for burglars since they are aware double-glazed windows without security are a great way to break into homes.
It is possible to fix many of these issues yourself, however, a professional will do it much more quickly and effectively. They can repair damaged seals, and also restore the insulation properties of your double-glazed windows. They can also replace the frames, rather than just the panes of glass which is more affordable.
The majority of double-glazed windows come with warranties that range between 10 and 20 years. If you encounter problems, it's worth contacting the company who sold them as quickly as you are able to. Some companies offer a lifetime guarantee so it's a good idea to check before you encounter any problems.
Some of the more straightforward double glazed window repairs include oiling handles, hinges and areas where windows go through the frame (if they are sash windows). This will make windows easier to open and shut and may even fix the issue. Certain companies may also drill holes in double glazing that has been misted to eliminate the moisture.
Discoloration
If you notice a discoloration appearing on your double-pane windows, it's a sign it's time to have them replaced. The damage to your windows caused by high humidity in the indoor is the main cause of this problem. The stains are usually streaks of black that appear on the window's surface. They may look wet but feel dry when the touch is made. The stains may also appear as white, orange, or green. If not treated, discoloration can lead to wood rot in windows as well as toxic mold growth and various health issues for household members.
Window discoloration can be easily removed with a hog bristle brush liquid window cleaner and Oxalic cleaner. The first step is to loosen the dirt that has build up on windows. Once the loose dirt is gone, you can then use a safety razor to remove thicker dirt. Then, you can use the oxalic cleaner to remove any leftovers. Regular cleaning and maintenance is the best way to stop the problem from returning.
Double-pane windows are part of the energy envelope, which is the enclosed enclosure that is insulated and includes the roof, exterior walls, and the fenestrations (skylights entrance doors, windows). They block out the outside temperature and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature. If you are concerned about your home's energy efficiency it is crucial to fix any problems with your fenestrations right away.
As double-pane windows get older they are susceptible to developing several issues that can affect their performance and lifespan. A broken seal can result in condensation and other issues. Finding the right professional can often double glazed windows repair fix these problems.
Some homeowners are willing and able to repair double-glazed windows by themselves, but it is usually more efficient to employ a professional. This will ensure that the task is done properly and the quality of the double-glazed window is maintained. It's also important to choose a professional to get the best value for your money. Checkatrade's database of verified and dependable tradespeople makes it easy to find the right double-glazed windows repair professional for your requirements.