How to Prevent Condensation Between Double Glazing Windows
Double glazing may perform poorly when there condensation between the window panes. A little attention to maintenance can help prevent it.
It is vital to remember that this is not an activity you can complete yourself as special tools are required. It is always best to delegate this to a qualified tradesman.
Broken Panes
Double paned windows are a common feature in modern homes. They are a great option to reduce your energy bills because they keep the heat inside and the cold outside. They are more efficient at insulating than single panes and can be used to control humidity levels in your home. They can be damaged and broken and a broken window pane needs to be repaired.
While you could try to repair a broken double pane yourself, it's a job best left to professionals. The use of special tools is required to disassemble the frame, then remove the broken glass and replace it with a new one. It's also risky to handle broken glass and could cause serious injuries when handled improperly. It's a good idea when your window is damaged, to call in an expert to fix it in a safe manner.
When a double pane is damaged the seal between the two glass panes can fail, resulting in condensation inside the window. If the condensation is severe enough to leave visible marks on the outside of the window, it is likely to require replacement completely to prevent further moisture and draughts.
To replace the double pane that is broken, the old window has to be removed from the sash. This task is that is best handled by professionals who understand how the window breaks and can swiftly take the sash apart and remove the IGU (insulated glazing unit). The new IGU can be purchased from a specialized glass company and fitted into place.
After the new pane is installed, the silicone caulk must be applied to 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's an ideal idea to paint the putty using an oil-based primer. Then, wait for it to dry before completing with an exterior paint. Follow these steps to ensure that your double-pane window will be watertight for a number of years.
Leaking Seals
If water gets into your home via windows that are double-glazed and causes damage to the wall and the plaster behind it. This indicates that the window seals are beginning to fail, and you must call an expert to repair them as soon as is possible.
One of the most frequent causes of double glazing leaks is condensation that develops between the glass panes. This could be a problem particularly in winter, but it's usually a simple fix. A technician will come to your home and clean the glass and frames before installing the new gasket to stop air from escaping.
The window's weather seal might also be failing. This is a common problem in older homes and could lead to leaks in the frame. The weather seals are typically replaced using a special polyurethane solution, which helps to prevent water ingress.
If you believe this is the case with your windows, then you should check the warranty paperwork to see if they are still covered under warranty. If they are, contact the manufacturer to inquire about replacement costs.
It is also essential to ensure that the drainage section of your window isn't blocked. This could also cause issues with leaks and may require to be cleared of any debris.
Sometimes, it's not possible to fix the seals on your double glazing. In this case, you'll have to replace them instead. This involves removing the existing IGU (insulated glass unit) and replacing it with a brand new one. This will ensure that the insulating gas remains in place and prevents warm air from escaping your home during summer and cold air from entering in the winter.
Even if you have to replace double glazing, it may still be less expensive than purchasing windows. It is possible to locate a local company that can install IGUs into your existing frame, thereby saving you the cost of buying and fitting the new window.
Frames damaged
Double-glazed windows are famous for their energy efficiency, but over time they can lose their integrity due to ageing or other reasons. This is when the frame begins to lose its strength, resulting in issues such as condensation between the panes as well as draughts. If the frames don't hold up, they are usually a sign that you need to replace them.
UPVC frames are tough, but they can discolour with time. This is often due to dirt and grime that have accumulated over time. It is crucial to use a specialist UPVC cleaning product to help get rid of any build-up and stop it from resurfacing. If you notice that your UPVC frames are discolored and are unable to be cleaned, it could be a sign that the seals breaking.
Moisture can also accumulate when the seal that keeps the glass panes together is broken. This could cause an un-dry patch to appear on the ceiling or wall and cause damage to furniture and fabrics inside your home. Some homeowners attempt to fix the issue by drilling holes into the window. But, this is only a temporary solution and may cause the problem to get worse.
It is also important to remember that water running through the frame could be an indication of wood decay. This can pose a major health risk as it allows insects into your home and cause damage to furniture and walls. It is crucial to call a double glazing repair expert as soon as you notice this issue as it is likely that your windows will need replacing in the near future.
Other indications that your double glazed windows aren't functioning properly include broken hinges and handles and the absence of locks. A double glazing specialist can fix these issues quickly. Ineffective windows that are easy to break into is not only a nuisance but can also result in more expensive insurance premiums.
Draughts
Double-glazed windows can reduce the amount of cold air that enters your home by providing an effective thermal barrier. But, like all things, they don't last forever and if your double glazing begins to fail it is important that you get any faults repaired as soon as possible. You may end up with a costly and less warm home.
The most common issue that many owners of double-glazed windows experience is the emergence of draughts inside their homes. This can be caused by many factors, including a problem in the window seal, hinges, locks or a dropped sash. If you notice a draft in your home, it's crucial to act to correct it. It can be uncomfortable and could be hazardous to your health.
Draughts are caused by gaps between your double-glazed windows that allow cold air into the property. There are a number of short-term solutions to this issue like closing the gaps using putty or window insulation film which will help to keep your home warmer and quieter for a longer period of time.
If you are experiencing issues with draughts, it is crucial to replace your gasket seals. This will not only increase the efficiency of double glazing, but will also save you money in your energy bills. Gaskets are usually fixed with plastic, metal or wooden carriers that help maintain their "memory" and allow seals to function effectively.
If you're not sure how to fix your draughts, it might be worth contacting an expert repair service for double glazing. They can provide guidance and help. They can also carry out a survey of your double glazing to identify the root of the problem and suggest the most effective method of action.
You should always check whether your double glazing comes with a guarantee and what it covers. Make sure that your double glazing is covered by a warranty. Many companies offer warranties of 10 or 20 years or even a lifetime warranty.