Double Glazing Repairs Repairs might be required If your double-glazed windows are difficult to open or exhibit signs of condensation. In many cases this can be accomplished without having to replace the entire window unit. Attempting to fix your own double-glazing requires specialized tools, which is why this should be left to an expert. Condensation Condensation in double glazing isn't just annoying however, it can also mean that warm air is leaving your home. This is usually the indication of a damaged seal or deterioration. It is best to replace the entire window in the case. In some cases you might be able to use a hairdryer (from an appropriate distance) to evaporate the moisture between the glass panes. This is a good temporary solution, but it's also worth keeping in mind that you should seek out professional assistance whenever you can, as the longer the problem persists and the longer it lasts, the more damage it will cause to your double glazing and potentially to your health. If the condensation is restricted to a small portion of the window frame, you can usually eliminate it by wiping it away frequently and swiftly. If you notice condensation in larger areas of your window, this could mean that the seal has been damaged and windows are now less efficient thermally than they need to be. It is caused by a variety of reasons that can cause condensation, but the most prevalent is excessive humidity or poor ventilation in your home. Double-glazed windows tend to show more condensation than single pane windows due to the fact that humidity can easily form droplets of water on cold surfaces. Install an air vent in your bathroom or kitchen in the event of a especially humid. If your windows are in the warranty period and you want to contact the company who installed windows to discuss the issue and ask them to fix the issue for you. They could be able to replace the unit, or they might need to fit air vents that are one-way to stop future condensation. This is a better option than replacing your double-glazed windows, since you'll save time and money. Foggy Glass Foggy windows are a sign that the seal on double-paned windows has failed. These windows have two panes of glass with a space in between. This space is filled with energy efficient gasses like argon or Krypton. This helps keep temperature-controlled air inside your home, while keeping the outside elements out. If the seal is not strong enough it is possible that moisture will seep in and result in fog. Foggy windows aren't only unattractive, but they can also make your home less energy-efficient. Many homeowners prefer to hire an expert to repair their windows rather than replacing their windows. A glass specialist will be able to determine whether the windows can be fixed before making a recommendation. If they require replacement they'll be able to provide you with a top-quality replacement that isn't prone to foggy glass. Double glazing can also cause issues when it comes to the opening and closing of doors or windows. This could be due to extreme weather or an alteration in the structure of the frame itself. Contact the company that sold you the double-glazing if you find it difficult to open. Many companies offer warranties on their products, which last for a a set period of time. Some even offer lifetime guarantees. If you cannot resolve the problem with your current provider It could be time to switch. Always ask for written confirmation that your complaint was received, plus any agreements made to resolve it and what these dates will be. If you are required to change providers this will make it easier. Defogging is a method that can be used to repair foggy windows. It involves drilling holes in the glass, introducing a cleaning solution, removing any soiled liquid and drying the interior. Before committing to this solution, it's important to consider whether it's suitable for your home. Be aware, however that it won't restore any lost energy efficiency due to damaged window seals. Cracked Panes A crack in a window that is double-glazed might seem like something minor, but can cause serious damage. It's crucial to have the crack fixed as quickly as you can in order to avoid further damage especially if it's on the inside of the glass. Double-pane windows are made up of two glass panes assembled together with a gap in between which is filled with an inert gas, like argon or krypton. This is to ensure that heat from your home doesn't get transferred through the glass. Gas also slows the transfer of heat so that the warm air in your house can move more slowly through the window than it would in the absence of any space between the two glass panes. It's crucial that the windows are installed correctly and have a solid seal. The windows should be installed by a qualified glazier, who can install the glass panes with a secure seal to ensure they are properly insulated to the best extent. If the window seal is not working and the gas in the panes to leak which reduces their insulation and causing cracks between the two panes of glass. https://www.repairmywindowsanddoors.co.uk/double-glazing-repairs-woking/ that causes broken double-pane windows is poor installation, which can result in the glass expanding and contracting at different rates. This can lead to stress cracks that appear over time and can weaken the glass. If this is the case, it's important to find a Glazier who can be able to replace the cracked pane of glass with an alternative that is more appropriate for your home. If you find a small crack in your double-glazed windows it is crucial to realize that the crack is not repaired by filling it with adhesive. This is because double-pane windows rely on an air-tight seal between two glass panes and any cracks may worsen in time, leading eventually to total breakage. It's essential to keep in mind that handling broken glass is risky, so it's always best to get a professional glazier who have the appropriate tools for the job. They will also know how to get rid of the old sealant without causing further damage to the glass. Leaking Seals A triple-pane or double-pane window comprises an insulated glass unit (IGU) comprising three or two sheets of annealed or tempered glass. The IGU is fixed by a combination of aluminum spacers and polyurethane. This creates an airtight seal that prevents water from entering your home. Over time, however, the seal can break down which allows water and draughts to get into your living spaces. Typically it is due to the natural expansion and contraction of materials used to make your window. The sealant, which is either polyurethane or silicone, will stretch and shrink slightly with changes in temperature and humidity which puts the IGU at risk of breaking. When the seal breaks down the insulative fill gas can escape and your windows will be left with a cloudy appearance and draughts that reduce the efficiency of your home. If a window seal is damaged, it may also cause condensation or water to form between the panes, which you cannot wipe away. In some instances, water may leave a permanent stain left on the glass of your window. In general, you can solve this problem by having your window professionally cleaned. This process requires professional equipment that removes moisture, fills in the void with the gas argon or krypton and then reseals the window, preventing gas escape. The cost of this service can differ based on the type of IGU and the location, but the majority of double-glazed windows can be repaired in one hour or two. In addition to changing your window seals there are other ways to increase the energy efficiency of your double-pane windows. Choose a glass and coating that is energy efficient that reflect instead of absorbing the sun's rays. This will keep your rooms cooler, more comfortable and improve the appearance of your windows. Finally, apply caulk or weatherstripping on the frame of your window to eliminate gaps that may let cold air into your home and warm air out. In some cases this is a good alternative to replacing the whole window.