How to Prevent Condensation Between Double Glazing Windows
Condensation between the window panes is one of the most common issues that cause double glazing to perform poorly. However, a amount of maintenance can help prevent this.
It is crucial to remember that this is not a job you can do yourself as special tools are required. It is always best to delegate this task to a professional tradesperson.
Broken Panes
Double paned windows are a typical feature in modern homes. They are a great option to reduce your energy bills because they keep the warmth inside and the cold outside. They insulate much better than single pane windows and aid in controlling humidity in a home. They can be damaged and broken and a broken window pane needs to be repaired.
While you could try to repair a damaged double pane by yourself, this is a job best left to experts. The use of special tools is required to disassemble the frame, remove the glass that has broken and replace it with a new pane. It's also risky to handle broken glass, and could result in serious injury when handled improperly. It's a good idea when your window is damaged, to call a professional to fix it safely.
If a double pane is damaged, the seal between the two glass panes can fail and this will result in condensation inside the window. If the condensation is so intense that it leaves visible marks on the exterior of the window, then the window will need to be replaced to prevent any further condensation or draughts.
To replace a double pane which has broken, the old window has to be removed from the sash. It is best to leave this task to professionals who know how the window functions. They can quickly disassemble the sash and then remove the IGU. The new IGU can then be ordered from a specialist glazing firm and installed.
Once a new pane is installed it should be fixed with a silicone caulk on the edges of the window. This will prevent water from getting behind the putty, causing further damage to your home. Once the caulk has dried it is a good idea to paint the putty using an oil-based primer. After that, wait for it to dry again before finishing with a coat of exterior paint. Follow these steps to make sure that your double-pane window will be watertight for a number of years to come.
Leaking Seals
If water enters your home through windows that are double-glazed, it can cause damage to the wall and the plaster behind it. This indicates that the seals on your window are beginning to fail, and you should contact an expert to fix them as soon as you can.
One of the main causes of double glazing leaks is condensation that develops between the glass panes. This is a concern, especially in the winter months, but it's generally a simple fix. A technician will come to your home and clean the glass and frames before installing a new gasket that stops air from escaping.
The window's weather seal may be in a state of failure. This issue occurs in older homes, and can cause leaks around the frame. The weather seals are typically replaced using a special polyurethane product that helps to prevent water ingress.
If you believe that this is the situation with your windows, check the paperwork and see if they still have an warranty. If they are, contact the manufacturer to inquire about the cost of replacement.
Check that local glaziers near me is not blocked. This can also cause problems with leaking and may need to be cleared of any debris.
Sometimes it's impossible to repair the seals in your double glazing and you will need to replace them instead. This requires taking out the old IGU (insulated glass unit) and replacing it with a new one. This will ensure the insulating gases stay in place and prevent warm air from entering your home during summer and cold air from entering your home in winter.
Even if you have to replace double glazing, it can still be less expensive than purchasing a new window. You might be able to find a local company that can install IGUs into your existing frame, thereby saving you the expense of purchasing and fitting the new window.
Frames that are damaged
Double-glazed windows are famous for their energy efficiency, but as time passes, they become less durable due to ageing or other causes. The frames will begin to weaken and create problems like condensation or draughts. If the frames don't hold up, they are typically an indication that you need to replace them.
UPVC window frames are tough and durable but they may fade as time passes. This is mostly due to grime and dirt that has built up over time. Use a specific cleaner for UPVC to eliminate any buildup and prevent it from resurfacing. However, if you find your UPVC window frames are becoming discoloured and cannot be cleaned, it could be a sign that the window seals are starting to fail.
The moisture can also build up when the seal that holds the glass panes in place is broken. This can cause a damp patch to appear on the ceiling or wall and can damage furniture and fabrics inside your home. Some homeowners attempt to solve the problem themselves by drilling holes in the window. But it is only an interim solution and could make the problem worse.
It is also important to remember that dripping water through the frame is a sign that the wood inside the frame is beginning to rot. This could pose a serious health risk since it could allow insects to get into your home and cause damage to furniture and walls. You should call a double-glazing repair expert immediately you spot the problem, as your windows may require replacement in the near future.
Broken handles and hinges, and the lack of locks are signs that your double-glazed windows are no longer function properly. These are all problems which can be resolved quickly by an expert in double glazing repair. Having ineffective windows that can be easily broken into is not only a nuisance but will result in higher insurance costs.
Draughts
Double-glazed windows are designed to provide your home with a strong thermal barrier, reducing the amount of cold air that is allowed into. However, as with all things, they don't last forever. If your double glazing starts to fail it is important to have any problems fixed as soon as you can. You could end up with a high cost and less warm home.
The most frequent issue homeowners with double glazing face is the appearance of draughts inside their homes. This could be caused by a variety of causes, including problems with the window seal, hinges, locks or a sash that has been dropped. Whatever the reason, if you have an air draught in your home, it is important that you take action to correct the issue since it's not just going to be uncomfortable but could also be harmful to your health.
Draughts are caused by gaps between double-glazed windows, which let cold air into the property. There are a variety of solutions for this problem such as closing the gaps using putty or window insulation films that will help keep your home warmer and quieter for longer.
If you have problems with draughts, it's essential to replace the gasket seals. This will not only boost the efficiency of double glazing, but will also reduce your energy bills. Gaskets are usually held in place with metal, plastic, or wooden carriers, which help to preserve their "memory" and allow the seals to function efficiently.
If you're not sure of what to do to fix your draughts, it's worth contacting an expert repair company for your double glazing. They can provide guidance and help. They can also conduct a survey on your double glazing to identify the cause and suggest the best course of action.
You should always check whether your double glazing comes with a guarantee and what it will cover. A lot of companies provide a guarantee that lasts for 10 or 20 years or sometimes, a lifetime guarantee which is well worth checking before you do any work on your double glazing.