Double Glaze Repair
Modern double glazing is safe and warm, but it can cause a range of annoying issues in time. These include draughts fogging and condensation between panes.
Many of these problems can be easily fixed by an expert. This will allow the window to breathe and increase the thermal efficiency of your home.
Draughts
No matter if you have uPVC aluminium or timber double glazing, problems with it are likely to happen in time. They can be minor irritations such as a window or door that gets stuck to the floor, a lock or handle issue or misting glass. However, they can also be more serious issues such as a leaky window that isn't closed or a damaged seal. Some of them can be fixed at home, for instance a door or window that is stuck. Others require the expertise of a specialist and may even require replacement.
These small problems are often caused by a buildup condensation which can cause gaps to form between the frames. These can lead to the cold air getting into your home and raising your energy bills. You can fix this by wiping your frames down with a damp towel to eliminate moisture and allow the frame to shrink. If this doesn't work then you could consider a draught-exclusion device that is available in many forms such as brush seals and foam strips that can be slipped into the gaps to prevent cold air from entering your home.
Leaking windows can be more dangerous and usually happen when the seals between the frame and the aperture have been damaged or broken. It is also possible to repair them by cleaning out the drainage area to eliminate any debris, or replacing the seals. It's worth checking your warranty, as many companies offer a guarantee which covers these kinds of problems for 10 or 20 years, and occasionally up to the lifetime guarantee.
After minor issues are fixed, it's worth considering having your double-glazed windows professionally draught-proofed. This can improve the insulation of your home, decrease noise, and lower your energy costs. This will make your home more cosy and stop condensation from forming on the inner glass panes of your appliances, which can cause damage to seals. double glazing repair can also upgrade to energy-efficient A-rated glass and reduce your heating costs.
Smudging
Double glazing can help to improve the insulation in your home, making it warm and comfortable. But it isn't indestructible and over time it'll need to be repaired. Thankfully many of the problems that can develop with double glazing can be fixed and there's no reason to replace your windows or doors entirely.
One of the main issues that people face with double glazing is that it becomes difficult to open and close. It could be due to several factors, including the frames expanding or shrinking slightly based on weather conditions and temperature. Another factor is the handles and hinges getting damaged, which could make it difficult to operate the windows and doors correctly.
Double glazing can also cause smudging, which occurs the process where dirt or dust build up on the window seals makes them appear opaque. This could be because of condensation between the panes and it's important to have the issue resolved before it gets worse.
A damp, clean cloth can be used to clean window seals. This will eliminate any surface dirt and abrasions and can be used on the inside of the frame and on the outside. It's essential not to use anything that is too rough on the rubber seals however they could be damaged by them. If you have coloured window frames, it's a good idea apply a cloth that is in line with the color so as not to mark the rubber seals.
Misting and condensation are indicators that your double-glazed unit is not keeping the gases that are insulating between the panes. This can result in higher heating bills because the window isn't performing its function. It can be expensive to fix a window that is faulty.
Double glazing repair specialists are able to solve the vast majority double glazing problems. They can repair broken panes or draughty window glass. They can also upgrade your double-glazed units to A-rated energy-efficient products, which can further reduce your energy bill.
Mist
Double glazing provides excellent insulation, soundproofing and looks fantastic when they're in good shape. If they're not looked after properly they can degrade quickly and turn cloudy or misty. This decreases the thermal efficiency of the windows, and also makes them look dirty and unsightly.
If double-glazed windows begin to mist, it's an indication that the seals are not working properly. This could be due to a poor installation, degrading, or moisture in the sealed unit.
The cause of this is usually condensation and humidity levels inside the home, but it can also be down to old seals that are worn out. This is especially common in older aluminium framed double glazing, but more modern plastic framed units do have issues with this.
It is cheaper to replace the double-glazed glass unit than install new windows. DG Servicing is able to replace the sealed unit, without damaging the frame. We also offer a variety of replacement options that make your double glazed window look as new.
Some companies claim they can fix the problem by drilling small holes into the window and injecting chemicals into it to eliminate the condensation and fog. However, this isn't an effective solution for the long-term and may damage the window.
The best advice is to always use approved and skilled fitters when installing your double glazed windows and doors, and keep copies of warranties, contracts, and proof of payment. This can be extremely helpful if you ever have problems with the double glazing. Regular cleaning and maintenance is recommended to keep the seals in good condition. By following these simple tips that your double glazing will last for years to come. Don't ignore any issues as they will only worsen. It's always better to fix them early on before they become expensive repairs or even an entire replacement.
Condensation
Double-glazed windows are insulated by two glass panes that are separated by a layer of gas usually argon. This helps improve the efficiency of your home, allowing heat in during colder weather. Double glazing can cause condensation.
Condensation happens when there are temperature differences between the air and glazed windowpanes. This can happen at night or during periods of extreme cold. The condensation appears as tiny drops on the window's surface. It is, however, not necessarily an indication that your windows are not functioning properly. However, it is important to know that this could also be an indication of poor ventilation within your home.
Moisture can also be trapped between the panes of the double-glazed windows. This can cause a buildup of mould and damp in your home that may be difficult or impossible to remove without replacing your windows. In the event that you do notice a problem with condensation, it's advisable to contact your installer and make a claim under the warranty that was provided when you purchased your double-glazed.
Window frames that are stained by double glazing are not just ugly, but they can also reduce the thermal efficiency of your home. This means that your heating will be used to warm the area around the window, rather than to keep you warm.
In the majority of cases, a double glazed window that has become misty isn't able to be fixed as the seal between the two glass panes has broken. However, this could be a a good opportunity to upgrade your windows to an energy efficient unit.
It is crucial to ensure you have the right tools and equipment before attempting any repairs to double glazing yourself. This requires a window cleaning kit, which should contain rubber gloves, a meter to test resistance, and the squeegee for removing water. Utilizing these tools, you can clean your double-glazed windows, and make sure they are watertight, and that the seals between the units are secure. You can also employ a gasket roller assist in pushing new seals into the corners of your double glazing.