How to Prevent Condensation Between Double Glazing Windows
Condensation between the windows is among the most frequent issues that cause your double glazing to perform poorly. A little care can stop it.
This is not something you can tackle by yourself, as specialized tools are needed. It is always best to delegate this to a qualified tradesman.
Broken Panes
Double pane windows are a standard feature of modern homes and are a great way to lower energy costs by keeping cold out and the heat in. They are more efficient at insulating than single panes and can also be used to control humidity levels in your home. They can be damaged and broken and a broken window pane must be repaired.
Although you can repair a damaged double-pane by yourself, this is a job best left to professionals. To disassemble the frame and remove the broken pane, you'll need special tools. Broken glass can cause serious injury when handled improperly. If your window is damaged, it's always recommended to contact an experienced glazier who can complete the repair safely.
When a double pane is damaged, the seal between the two glass panes could fail and this will result in condensation inside the window. If the condensation becomes so bad that it leaves visible marks on the outside of the window, the window should be replaced to stop further moisture or draughts.
To replace a double pane which has broken, the old window needs to be removed from the sash. It is best to delegate this job to professionals who know how the window functions. They can quickly take apart the sash and then remove the IGU. The new IGU can be purchased from a specialist glazing firm and installed.
After the new pane is installed, the silicone caulk must be sprayed around the edge of the window. This will stop water from flowing behind the putty, causing further damage to the house. After the caulk is dry, it's recommended to paint the putty using an oil-based primer, then wait for it to dry again before finishing with an exterior paint. By following these steps, you can ensure that your double-pane window is watertight and secure for the years to come.
Leaking Seals
If water gets into your home through a double glazing window, then it could cause damage to the wall and plaster behind it. This is a sign that the seals for your window have begun to fail. It is recommended to contact an expert immediately to repair them.
One of the most frequent reasons for leaking double glazing is condensation that forms between the glass panes. This can be a huge problem, especially during the winter months. However, it is usually an easy solution. A technician will clean your frame and glass before installing a gasket to stop air from escaping.
Alternately, the window's weather seal may be in a state of failure. This issue is seen in older homes and can lead to leaks around the frame. Weather seals are typically replaced with a polyurethane solution to stop water from entering.
If you believe this is the case with your windows, take a look at the warranty to see if they are still covered under warranty. If they are, contact the manufacturer to inquire about the cost of replacement.
repairing double glazing windows is also crucial to check that the drainage section of your window isn't blocked. This could also cause issues with leaks and might need to be cleared of any debris.
Sometimes, it's not feasible to repair the seals on your double glazing. It is necessary to replace them. This requires removing the existing IGU (insulated glass unit) and replacing it with a brand new one. This will ensure the gases that insulate stay in place to stop warm air from entering your home in summer and cold air from entering your home in winter.
It's also worth noting that even if you need to replace your double-glazed window, it's less expensive than buying a new window. It is possible to locate a local business who can fit IGUs into the frame you have already installed, saving you the expense of purchasing and fitting windows.
Frames damaged
Double glazing windows are known for their energy efficiency, however they can lose integrity over time due to ageing and other factors. This is when the frame starts to deteriorate, leading to issues like condensation between the panes and draughts. If the frames don't hold up, they are typically a sign that you need to replace them.
UPVC frames are durable but they do fade with time. This is often due to dirt and grime that has accumulated over time. It is important to use a specialized UPVC cleaning product to help get rid of any build-up and stop it from returning. If you notice that your UPVC frames are discoloured and are not able to be cleaned, this could be an indication of the seals not working properly.
The moisture can also build up when the seal that holds the glass panes together is broken. This can result in the appearance of a damp patch on your wall or ceiling and can even cause damage to your furniture and fabrics within your home. Some homeowners attempt to solve the problem themselves by drilling holes in the window. But this is an interim solution and could make the problem worse.
Also, it's important to note that water running through the frame can be an indication of wood rot. This can pose a major health risk because it allows insects to get into your home and cause damage to furniture and walls. It is important to contact a double-glazing repair specialist as soon you notice the problem, as your windows may need to be replaced in the near future.
Other signs that your double-glazed windows aren't functioning properly include broken handles and hinges and a lack of locks. A double glazing expert can fix these issues quickly. Having ineffective windows that are easy to break into is not just a hassle but will result in more expensive insurance premiums.
Draughts
Double-glazed windows decrease the amount of cold air that enters your home due to an effective thermal barrier. Like most things, double glazed windows do not last forever. If you discover that your double glazing is failing, it's important to have the problem repaired as soon as is possible. Otherwise, you may end with a warmer and more costly home.
The most common issue that many owners of double-glazed windows experience is the appearance of draughts inside their homes. This can be due to a range of reasons, such as problems with the window seal, locks, hinges or a dropped sash. Whatever the reason, if there is an unnatural draught inside your home it is crucial to take action to correct the issue since it's not just going to be uncomfortable but could be harmful to your health.
Draughts are typically caused by the gaps in your double glazed window that allow cold air to be able to enter your home. You can find a range of short-term solutions to this problem such as closing the gaps using putty or using window insulation films that will help to keep your home warm and quiet for longer.
If you're experiencing problems with draughts, it's important to replace the gasket seals. This will not only boost the efficiency of double glazing, but it will also reduce your energy bills. Gaskets are secured with metal, plastic, or wooden carriers that help maintain their "memory" and allow seals to function effectively.
If you are unsure how to handle your draughts it may be worthwhile contacting a professional double glazing repair service who will be able to provide guidance and support. They can also carry out an inspection of your double glazing to determine the cause of the draught and suggest the most effective method of action.
Verify if your double-glazed unit is covered by an insurance policy and what it will cover. Make sure that your double glazing comes with a warranty. Many companies offer warranties of either 10 or 20 years or even a lifetime guarantee.
