How to Repair Double Glazed Windows Double glazing can help reduce your energy costs because it keeps your home warm, reducing the need to heat. However, over time, these windows will need maintenance and repairs. Repairing the obvious signs of damage such as condensation between glass panes is possible. A professional may be required to address more serious issues. Condensation Condensation is a regular occurrence on all types of glass surfaces, but it is particularly problematic when it appears on double-glazed windows. It can cause the windows to become cloudy and can even cause black mould growing on the window. This is not just unsightly, but could also cause damage to the curtains or paintwork of your property. It is usually due to an absence of ventilation however it could also be due to the temperature of the room being too low or when the insulated glass is placed in a south-facing position that is exposed to direct sunlight all day. This can cause the inner pane to be warmer than the outer and air is unable to cross the gap. The condensation will then form on the cold surface of the pane's inner side and can be difficult to get rid of. You can lower the risk of condensation in your home or office by taking a few simple steps. A good ventilation system is vital as it helps maintain humidity levels and let warm air escape. Extractor fans can be used to dry clothes, cook and shower indoors. To prevent the interior of your home from becoming too hot and encouraging the growth of moisture on the windows, it is also recommended to create areas of shade. If condensation develops on the double-glazed windows, it's usually due to a failing sealant and needs to repaired or replaced. A reputable company should be able offer this service for an affordable cost. This will ensure that the energy efficiency of the house or building is not compromised and also that the condensation isn't causing damage to interior surfaces or the paintwork. Shattered Glass Double glazed windows are known for their durability and security, but this doesn't mean that they're invulnerable. It's not uncommon for double-glazed windows to shatter spontaneously and cause alarm and potentially dangerous if the glass shatters into small pieces. It could be due to a number of causes, including nickel sulphide inclusions as well as thermal stress. If you have a double glazed window that has cracks or a broken seal, it's important to fix it as quickly as you can. Not only can the cracked window be a health hazard for you and your family members, but it can also reduce the efficiency of your home and allow water to leak through to the walls, floors and furniture. Most double-glazed windows can be fixed by a quick repair by applying sealant or replacing beading. If the glass is broken or cracked it is required to replace it. When you are removing the old pane of glass, make sure to wear gloves and have a safe disposal method in place before starting. To prevent the glass that has cracked from sliding out of the frame you can tape it using masking or packing tape. This will stop the glass from falling out, and is temporary solution until you get an alternative. Gasket Seals The window seals are a crucial element of double-pane windows, helping to block outside moisture and air. They also aid in reducing outside noises and keep warm air in which means you can enjoy peace and quiet in your home. These window seals may also deteriorate over time because of weather conditions or other environmental stressors. In the end, this could result in visible black streaks on building facades and water-stained finishes inside the home. If you notice this issue it is essential to get a professional look at your windows to identify the cause and provide an effective fix. Window seals are generally made of durable materials like silicone or butyl that maintain an airtight barrier between glass panes. They are usually designed with several layers to help resist pressure fluctuations and other environmental stressors. However, over time these may degrade, leading to the condition known as a blown seal. Blown seals result from an airtight barrier that is broken and divides the glass panes. This can lead to issues like fogging or decreased energy efficiency. This can be solved by replacing the gasket seal, without having to purchase new double glazing units. However, it is important to choose the right kind of gasket seal for your pvcu frame and window glass to ensure a good fit. Mr Misty offers a variety of extruded seals, including the E, bubble, and wedge varieties and in a variety of sizes. They are easy to install and cut for a weatherproof solution that will last. Some homeowners decide to seal windows themselves using DIY kits. However, this can be risky and might not be a permanent solution. Re-sealing double-pane windows is not likely to bring back the inert gas that was sealed in the IGU. Fogging and poor insulation will likely return after the sealant fails. Dropping Double-glazed windows comprise two glass panes that have a space between them that is sealed and filled with with inert gases, such as Krypton, argon or krypton. This makes it more efficient than traditional windows that consist of a single pane of glass. The glass can be replaced in a double-glazed window, but if the frame has been damaged or rotted it will likely require replacement. It can be expensive however it is essential to ensure that the window or door won't draft and will be safe to use. Double glazing that is difficult to open or falls out of the window could be a sign that the hinges, mechanism and handles are deteriorating and need replacing. Sometimes, oiling the mechanism or adjusting the screws can fix the issue. However, it is always best to contact your double glazing company as quickly as you can to request someone come and do a check. Discolored uPVC frames can also be an indication that it's time for an upgrade. UPVC frames are fairly robust, but they may become brittle over time if not protected from sun. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/window-glaziers-birmingham/ offer to drill holes in double glazing to remove the condensation. This is a fast and cost-effective solution to this issue, but it's important to keep in mind that broken glass can be risky. It is recommended to leave this type repair to experts. Drilling holes through double-glazed windows can compromise the integrity and seals of the glass, which can cause further issues such as draughts, condensation or even leaks. Warping Double-glazing offers a number of advantages, but it's crucial to be on the lookout for any signs of trouble. If the glass or frames become warped this can be an indication that it's time to consider alternatives for replacement. This issue can be caused by a variety of reasons like humidity levels and age. It could be caused by the way the windows were installed at first or the cleaning product employed. Based on the reason for warping, there are several solutions to address the problem. These methods include tightening hinges, or adding more weatherstripping. This is only a temporary solution but it's always better to seek advice from an expert. A common issue with double-glazing is that the door or window becomes difficult to open and shut. This is usually caused by dust and dirt accumulation or the sash's warping. If the sash is warped it may not fit into the window opening correctly and may be difficult to operate. These double-glazing problems are simple to fix, provided you know the indicators to look out for. It is normal for these issues to develop when windows age but they shouldn't be ignored since they can impact the overall performance of your home's insulation. It is crucial to contact an expert if you spot any issues. This will save you money in the long-term compared to replacing the entire unit. They will also provide a guarantee which you wouldn't get if you carried out the work yourself.