How to Tell If Your Double Glazed Windows Need Repair
Double-glazed windows are an excellent investment for your home. In time, they will start to show signs that they're worn out.
A poor seal can cause double glazing to shrink and have difficulty opening. This can lead to condensation and drafts. One method to stop this is to install trickle vents to allow fresh air into rooms.
Cracked Glass
A double-glazed window that cracks indicates that the seal between the two glass panes is broken. This indicates that the window is no longer able keep out heat or cold and, in severe cases the entire unit could require replacement.
Fortunately, windows that have cracked can be repaired with some simple steps. If you decide to tackle the task yourself, always prioritise your safety by placing down a tarp or cloth to catch any shards that might fall and then putting on safety glasses and eye protection gloves. You should also make sure that you clean any tools you'll be using before handling them, as cleaning up broken glass can be dangerous and if not done correctly, could result in cuts.
It's important to analyse the degree of the crack as well as its source. If it's caused by a recent blow or other external cause, then the best option is to speak with a professional to find out what kind of window that can better fit your home.
It's time to start the repair after you've determined the cause of the damage. Begin by cleaning the damaged glass using a mixture of soapy water. Dip a cotton rag in the mixture and gently rub the crack to get rid of any dirt or debris.
Applying a stripe of masking tape to a crack is one of the easiest ways to stop it from getting worse. This will prevent superficial cracks, such as stress-cracks, from becoming serious. It allows the glass to expand or contract without excessive pressure. If the crack is deeper you'll need stronger tape that can withstand more tension and extends a few inches over the crack on both sides.
Another option is to apply epoxy to cover the crack. However, this is a more labour-intensive option and it's ideal for more severe cracks. It is necessary to clean the crack and the area around it, and get rid of any excess epoxy.
Condensation
Double-glazed windows may produce condensation for a variety reasons. If you see condensation on the inside of the glass, this indicates that there is a lot of moisture and not enough air circulation in the room. This is most common in bathrooms and kitchens where humidity levels are typically high. It can also occur if you've recently had work done to your home, for example painting or plastering, both of which release large amounts of moisture.
If the condensation is located between the two glass panes, it could be an indication of an issue with your window. It is usually caused by a breakdown of the desiccant that's found within the 'air gap' between the two glass panes. The material is extremely absorbent and can soak up any moisture in the gap. If you discover even the tiniest blemish or crack in this region, the desiccant quickly becomes saturated and moisture appears as condensation.
Regularly wiping down your double-glazed window sills and frames can help stop condensation from developing. This is especially important if you live an region where the weather is quite extreme or has large temperatures throughout the year.
Utilizing a cloth immersed in a solution of warm water and liquid soap can help to clean the surfaces of your double glazed windows. It is not recommended to employ a colored cloth to clean your double-glazed windows since this could cause dye stains.
Contact a professional if you have a misting or condensation problem in your double-glazed window. They can resolve the issue at a fraction of what it costs to replace the entire window. The service comes with a 10-year warranty.
Warping
If your double-glazed windows are bending or twisting so much that they do not fit properly in the window openings, you must fix them immediately. If you leave your windows in this condition, they will lose their appeal and resale price. Your home will also be less efficient because the gaps will let cold, outside air to enter while the heated and cooled inside air escapes.
Condensation of the glass panes is a typical sign of defective double-glazed windows. This indicates that the seals have been damaged and that the argon gas that stops cold from entering your home, has escaped. If the frames are rotting, they also need to be replaced. Frames that are rotting are not just unsightly and will detract from your home's curb appeal, but they also make windows less secure, which is a real draw for burglars who are aware that double glazed windows with no security are a good way to gain entry to break into homes.
It is possible to repair many of these problems yourself, however, a professional will do it much more quickly and effectively. They can usually repair the broken seals and restore the insulating properties of your double-glazed windows. Additionally, they are able to replace the frame, rather than just the glass panes which is a lot less expensive.
Many double glazed windows come with warranties of 10 to 20 years. If you encounter a problem with them it is worth getting in touch with the company that you purchased them from as soon as it is possible. Some companies even offer a lifetime guarantee so it is always worth checking what yours covers before you have any issues.
Oiling hinges, handles, and the windows' points of entry enter the frame (if it's sash windows) are among the easier double glazed window repair techniques. This makes windows more easy to open and close and could fix the issue. Alternatively, some companies can drill holes in misted up double glazing to draw out the moisture before sealing the window.
Discoloration
If you notice discoloration in your double-paned windows, it is a sign it's time to have them replaced. Damage to the window caused by a high level of indoor humidity is the reason behind this problem. The stains are typically black streaks that appear along the window's surface. They may look dry but feel dry when the touch is made. The stains can appear as white, orange, green or brown. Untreated discoloration may cause wood rot in the windows and toxic mould growth and other health problems.
Window discoloration is easily removed by using a hog bristle comb, liquid window cleaner and oxalic cleaner. The first step is to break loose the dirt that has accumulated and build up on windows. Once the loose dirt is removed, you can use your safety razor to scrape off thicker dirt buildup. After that, you can apply the oxalic acid cleaner to remove any remaining residue. window glazier near me and cleaning is the best method to avoid the problem from recurring.
Double-pane windows work as part of the energy envelope which is the enclosed enclosure that is insulated and includes the roof, exterior walls and Fenestrations (skylights, entry doors and windows). They block out the outside temperature and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature. If you're worried about the efficiency of your energy use of your home, it's vital to address any problems in your fenestrations, as soon as you can.
As double-pane windows become older they may develop a number of different issues that can affect their performance and life span. The most common issue is a damaged seal that leads to condensation and other issues. Finding the right professional will often solve these issues.
While some homeowners are willing to tackle a double-glazed window repair task on themselves, it's generally more effective to leave the work to a trained professional. This will ensure that the job is done correctly and the double-glazed windows are kept in good condition. The choice of a professional is important to ensure that you're getting the best value for your money. Checkatrade's database of verified and trusted tradespeople makes it simple to find the right double-glazed window repair professional for your requirements.