Double Glaze Repair
Modern double glazing keeps us warm and safe but can develop a number of issues that can become nagging as time passes. These can include draughts, fogging and condensation between panes.
Many of these problems can be fixed easily by an expert. This allows your windows to breathe, enhance the thermal efficiency of your property and help you save on heating costs.
Draughts
Whether you have uPVC, aluminium or timber double glazing, problems with it are bound to occur in time. Often they are minor irritations such as doors or windows that are stuck or are difficult to handle or even misted glass. However, they can be more serious such as a leaky window that won't close or a damaged seal. Some of these are easily repaired at home, for instance the case of a window or door that is stuck. Others require the expertise of a specialist and may even need to be replaced.
Many of these minor issues could be caused by a build-up condensation, which could cause gaps between frames to form. This can allow cold air to enter your home, increasing the cost of energy. This can be easily remedied by wiping the frames with a damp cloth in order to eliminate the moisture and then allow the material to shrink. If this doesn't work, you can try a draught excluder which can be found in a variety of forms, such as brush seals and foam strips that are simply slipped into the gap to block cold air from getting into your home.
Leaking windows can be more serious and usually happen when the seals between the frame and aperture have broken or deteriorated. They can also be repaired by cleaning the drainage part of the window to get rid of any debris or replacing the seals. Verify your warranty. Many companies offer a warranty that covers such issues for a period of 10 or 20 years, and sometimes a lifetime.
It's also worth thinking about having your double glazed windows professionally draught-proofed after any minor problems are resolved. This can improve your home's insulation, reduce the noise, and also reduce your energy costs. This will make your home more comfortable and stop condensation from forming on the glass panes of your units, which can cause damage to seals. You could also upgrade to energy-efficient glazing A-rated and reduce your heating costs.
Smudging
Double glazing can boost your home's insulation, making it more comfortable and warm. However, it's not impervious to damage and over time it'll require repair. Many of the problems with double glazing can be easily fixed. You don't need 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, including the frames expanding or shrinking little based on the weather and temperature. Another reason is hinges and handles becoming damaged, which could make it difficult to operate the doors and windows correctly.
Double glazing can also lead to smudging, which occurs when dirt or dust build-up on the window seals, making them appear opaque. This is usually caused by condensation between the panes. It is crucial to correct the issue before it gets any worse.
A clean, damp cloth can be used to clean window seals. This will remove surface dirt and abrasions, and can be used inside and outside the frame. You should avoid using anything that is too abrasive in order to clean the rubber seals, because it could cause damage to them. If you have coloured window frames it's a good idea to use a cloth that matches the colour in order not to mark the seals' rubber.
Misting and condensation are indicators that your double-glazed unit isn't conserving the gases that provide insulation between the panes. This could result in higher heating bills because the window isn't performing its function. This can be very costly, so if you do have a faulty window then it's crucial to get it repaired as soon as possible.
Luckily, the vast majority of double glazing issues can be solved by specialists in double glazing repair. They can repair damaged panes, draughty windows and even foggy window glass. They can also upgrade your double-glazed units to an A-rated energy efficient product which will reduce your energy bills.
Mist
Double glazing is an excellent way to insulate, soundproof and look good when it's in good shape. If glazing repair near me are not maintained correctly they will quickly degrade and turn hazy or misty. This decreases the efficiency of the windows and also looks shabby and unattractive.
If double-glazed windows begin to smudge, it's an indication that there is a problem with the window seals. It could be due to inadequate installation, deterioration, or moisture within the sealed unit (sometimes called the blown double glass window).
It can be caused by worn-out seals or humidity levels in the home. This is especially common in older aluminum framed double glazing, but modern plastic-framed units can also have problems with this.
It is a lot less expensive to replace the double-glazed glass unit than to install new windows. DG Servicing can replace the sealed unit without damaging the frame, and we provide many alternatives to make your double-glazed windows look brand new.
Some companies claim they can solve the issue by drilling small holes into the window and injecting chemicals into it to remove the fog & condensation. But, this isn't a permanent solution and can cause damage to the window.
The best advice is to always use approved and skilled fitters when installing your double glazed windows or doors. You should also keep copies of warranties, contracts and proof of payment. If you experience issues with your new double glazing in the future, then this will be extremely helpful in claiming a refund from the installer in the event of a need. Regular cleaning and maintenance is also advised to keep the seals in perfect condition. By following these simple tips, your double glazing should last for a long time. If you do experience any problems, then don't ignore them, as they'll get worse. It is always better to address problems early, before they turn into expensive repairs or even replacing the job.
Condensation
Double-glazed windows are insulated by two glass panes separated by an air layer typically argon. This can improve the efficiency of your home, keeping the heat in during colder months. However condensation in double glazing can cause problems.
Condensation is usually caused by variations in temperature between air and the window panes that are glazed. This can happen when it is particularly cold or at night. The condensation appears as small droplets on the window surface. This is not necessarily an indication that your windows require to be replaced. However it is important to remember that this could be an indication of poor ventilation within your home.
Moisture can also be trapped between the panes of the double-glazed windows. This can cause an accumulation of damp and mould in your home that may be difficult or impossible to remove without replacing your windows. If you discover that there is a problem you should speak to your installer to claim under the warranty you were given when you bought your double-glazed.
Misty double glazed windows are not only unsightly, but they can also decrease the thermal efficiency of your home. This means that your heating will be used to heat the window's area rather than to keep yourself warm.
Most double-glazed windows that are misty cannot be repaired because the seal between the two glass panes has been broken. This is a great opportunity to upgrade to an energy-efficient window that has an A rating.
It is essential to ensure you have the right tools and equipment before you attempt any repairs to your double glazing yourself. This requires a window cleaning kit, that should include rubber gloves, a meter to test resistance, and an squeegee to get rid of water. These tools can be used to clean double-glazed windows to ensure that they are watertight as well as the seals are strong. You can also employ a gasket roller assist in pushing new seals into the corners of your double glazing.