How to Fix Common Double Glazing Window Repairs
Double glazing keeps your home warm but it's not without its flaws. Some of the most common problems are condensation between panes or broken seals. All of these issues can be resolved with a little knowledge.
Generally speaking, it is best to leave double glazing window repairs to an expert. This will save time and ensure that the repair is completed properly.
Broken or cracked Panes
A spacer is used to separate the glass panes inside a double-paned window. The spacer is filled with dense gas or air that acts as insulation. This creates a secure seal which is what makes double-pane windows so energy efficient and helps prevent condensation inside your home. If one of the panes is damaged or broken, it needs to be repaired as quickly as is possible. If not taken care of cracks will continue expand and let cold air to enter your home and warm air out. This can cost you every day.
Double-pane windows can be damaged or broken in a variety of ways. Double-pane window cracks could be caused by a pebble that is thrown from your lawnmower or a heavy drink placed on a glass-topped table or simply normal wear and tear. Whatever the reason for them it is essential to fix any double-pane window cracks when you notice them to ensure that the cracks do not expand and create a web of cracks on your windows.
You'll require a scraper or putty to remove the old sealant from around the frame and the glass of a damaged double-paned windows. The heat from a hairdryer, heat gun, or any other source can soften the sealant, making it easier to remove. After removal of the old sealant you'll need to remove all broken glass by hand. Be careful not to break the other panes. Be sure to wear gloves and keep a container ready to hold the broken glass for safe disposal.
If you decide to replace a broken windowpane with another of the same size it will need an entirely new pane. Once you've found the correct replacement, it can be inserted into the frame using plastic spacers, and then sealed in place by applying a fresh coat of sealant. If you are unsure what to do to replace double-paned windows or want professional assistance, contact an expert who can install windows for you.
Foggy Windows
Foggy windows happen when the seal between the two glass panes is broken. It is caused by a number of factors, such as sweat depressurization or extreme weather conditions. Foggy windows are more common in winter when the outdoor air is cold and contrasts with the warm indoors. In summer, the opposite is true when hot outdoor air collides with the cooler indoors.
The air-tight seal in a double pane window is typically an elastomer gasket that may become damaged over time due rain, temperature changes and other factors. Once the seal breaks it allows air, water and even insects to seep through the glass panes. There are solutions to fixing the seal and removing fogging.
Most of the time, it's best to get in touch with a professional for fogging windows double glazing window repairs. They will usually offer an assurance on their work, which can last for 10 years or more. Many of these companies utilize a process known as "defogging," which involves drilling small holes in the window and then spraying an anti-fog solution inside the glass. The technicians will then add small vents to allow for proper ventilation, and seal the holes with clear silicone caulk.
It is also essential to make sure that your windows have drainage holes. This is especially important during the winter months when there is lots of moisture in the air. The drainage holes let moisture escape, so that the double-glazed unit is not damaged. At Ambassador, we make sure that the window frames we fit have these drainage holes and, if they don't, then we drill new holes prior to installing replacement windows to avoid future condensation problems and fogging.
Replacing a double-pane window with an insulated glass unit (IGU) is another option to get rid of the fog. It's not as costly as replacing the entire sash frame, and can be accomplished in a shorter frame. This is a great option for those who want to save on energy costs and avoid the hassles of removing and installing a new sash frame.
Water Leaks
Sealant may be worn out when rainwater gets sucked into the window or into the walls. This is a relatively simple problem to fix. To create a smooth new surface, you will have to take off the old caulking before applying a new one. This should help stop water leaks and decrease the amount of draughts that are coming in from the outside.
It is crucial to check the area regularly for leaks since they might not be obvious. Examine the wall beneath the window for any water-based staining. If there aren't any stains the leak could be coming from the gutter above or from the roof. It is also worth looking at the size of the gutters to make sure they aren't pushing water into the places where leaks are happening.
If you notice that water is leaking from your double-glazed windows it is likely that the seal has failed. This can lead to condensation and the gas between the panes that typically provides an insulating property will cease to function. If this is the situation replacement of the unit with glass will usually solve the problem and stop your home feeling cold and drafty.
If you see water leakage along the bottom edges of your window, it could be a sign that the double glazed window repair sill pan is faulty or that the slope of the window sill needs to be corrected. These issues must be fixed before they cause water leaks into your home.
Water leaking near the top of the window can be due to a poor window installation or the wrong size of gutters. This could also indicate that the window frame is sagging or the aluminum parts do not fit correctly. Professionals should repair these issues. In some instances, the problem is caused by clogged weep holes. These holes are designed to allow moisture to escape from the frames, however when they are blocked, they can cause severe damage.
Broken Seals
Modern triple and double paned windows are well-insulated and can save homeowners money on energy bills. These windows contain two or more glass panes that are separated by an air gap, which is sealed with a rubbery elastic sealant called an insulating glass unit (IGU). In time, the seals could break, causing a variety of issues, including fogging of the window or glass distortion. It is essential to get these issues addressed quickly, since they could lead to water damage and higher energy bills and other problems.
Thankfully, damaged seals are usually an easy repair for a professional window technician. These technicians will fog the window and then remove any condensation that has developed between the glass panes, which is usually caused by humidity. Defogging is the process that is usually completed in less than an hour. It is important to keep in mind that the IGUs remain a reservoir of inert gases and the original insulation value of these windows cannot be restored with this repair.
Window manufacturers anticipate that their windows will endure a lot of abuse from rain, wind and snow, to baseballs and birds, so it's not uncommon for window seals to wear out in time. It's for this reason that they offer a warranty and ensure that the window will last at least 15 to 20 years. It's also why you want to buy only high-quality windows that are reliable and trustworthy. Have them installed by experts who will stand behind their work.
If you have a window with damaged seals, the best option is to make an official warranty claim and get it repaired or replaced at no cost. This is a great option, especially if your window appears to be in good shape and is free of any other issues. If you choose to have the window replaced the technician will take apart the sash and replace the IGU with a replacement that is similar to the original. They will then reassemble the sash and put it back into your home. It is possible to replace the entire window if the frame has been damaged.