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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 crucial to remember that this is not a job you can do yourself as special tools are required. This is a task that is best left to a professional.
Broken Panes
Double paned windows are a standard feature in modern homes. They are a great option to reduce your energy bills because they keep warm air inside while keeping the cold outside. They insulate much better than single pane windows, and help to control the humidity in a home. However, they can be damaged and breakage and a broken pane in a window will require repair.
You can repair a double pane that is broken yourself, but it is best to leave the work to the experts. The use of special tools is required to take the frame apart, remove the broken glass and replace it with a new pane. Broken glass can cause serious injury when handled incorrectly. If your window has been damaged, it's always an ideal idea to call an expert glazier to complete the repair safely.
If the seal between two glass panes has been damaged, condensation can occur within the window. If the condensation is so severe that it leaves visible marks on the exterior of the window, then the window should be replaced to stop further condensation or draughts.
To replace a double pane which has broken, the old window has to be removed from the sash. It is best to delegate this task to professionals who know how the window works. They can easily disassemble the sash and then remove the IGU. The IGU (insulated glazing unit) can be purchased and fitted by a specialist glass company.
Once the new pane has been installed, it must be secured in place by a silicone caulk around the edges of the window. This will prevent water from getting behind the putty, causing further damage to your home. After local double glazing repair has dried it's recommended to paint the putty using an oil-based primer. After that, wait for it to dry before applying a coat of exterior paint. Follow these steps to make sure that your double-pane window will be watertight for many years to come.
Leaking Seals
If water enters your home through windows with double glazing and causes damage to the wall and the plaster behind it. This could indicate that the window seals have started to fail. It is recommended to contact a professional immediately to fix the seals.
Condensation that forms between the panes of glass is one of the most common causes for double glazing to leak. This can be a big issue, especially in the winter months. However, it is usually a simple solution. A technician will clean your glass and frame before putting in a gasket to stop air from escaping.
Alternately, the window's weather seal may be failing. This is a problem that occurs in older homes, and may cause leaks around the frame. The weather seals are usually replaced with a polyurethane solution, which helps to stop water ingress.
If you think that this is the case with your windows then you should check the warranty paperwork to determine if they're still covered under warranty. If they are, then contact the manufacturer to inquire about the cost of replacement.
Check to ensure that the drainage channel is not blocked. This can cause problems with leaks and may require clearing of any debris.
Sometimes it isn't possible to repair the seals in your double glazing, and you'll need to replace them instead. This will involve taking out the old IGU (insulated glass unit) and replacing it with a new one. This will ensure that the gas insulating properties remain in place to stop warm air from leaving your home during summer and cold air from entering during winter.
It's important to note that even when you need to replace your double glazing it's less expensive than purchasing a brand new window. It is possible to locate a local business that can install IGUs in the frame you have already installed, saving you the expense of purchasing and fitting windows.
Frames damaged
Double-glazed windows are famous for their energy efficiency, however as time passes, they lose their integrity due to ageing or other reasons. This is when the frame starts to lose its strength, resulting in issues like condensation between the panes and draughts. If frames aren't holding their own it is a sign that they require replacement.
UPVC frames are strong however, they may fade with time. This is typically due to dirt and grime that have accumulated over time. It is essential to use a specialized UPVC cleaning product to remove any build-up and prevent it from resurfacing. If, however, you notice that your UPVC window frames have begun to become stained and can't be cleaned, it could indicate that the window seals are beginning to fail.
Moisture build-up is also an issue that is common when the seal binding the glass panes together breaks down. This could cause an un-dry patch to appear on the wall or ceiling and damage fabrics and furniture in your home. Some homeowners try to fix the issue themselves by drilling through the window to let air in but this is only a temporary solution that does not address the issue with the seal and could cause the problem to get worse.
It's also important to note that dripping water through the frame is a sign that the wood within the frame is beginning to begin to rot. This can be a serious health risk since it could allow insects to enter your home and destroy furniture and walls. It is important to contact a double-glazing repair specialist immediately you spot the issue, since windows could require replacement in the near future.
Broken hinges and handles and the absence of locks are also indications that your double-glazed windows no longer work. These are all issues that can be fixed quickly by a double glazing repair specialist. Ineffective windows that are easy for burglars to break in could be a problem and can result in higher insurance rates.
Draughts
Double-glazed windows can reduce the amount of cold air that enters your home through an effective thermal barrier. However, as with all things, they don't last forever and if your double glazing begins to fail, it is crucial that you get any faults fixed as soon as you can. You could end up with an expensive and less warm home.
Many double-glazed homeowners experience issues with draughts. This could be caused by a variety of causes, including a problem with the window seal, hinges, locks or a sash that is dropped. Whatever the reason, if you have an air draught in your home, it is essential to take steps to rectify this as it will not only be uncomfortable but could be detrimental to your health.
Draughts can be caused by gaps between your double-glazed windows, which let cold air to enter the home. You can find a range of solutions for this problem such as sealing the gaps with putty or using window insulation film which will help to keep your home warm and quiet for longer.
If you are experiencing issues with draughts, it's crucial to replace the gasket seals. This will not only enhance the efficiency of your double glazing but will also save you money on your energy bills too. Gaskets are held in place with plastic, metal or wooden carriers, which help to preserve their "memory" and allow seals to function efficiently.
If you're not sure of how to fix your draughts it's a good idea to contact an expert double glazing repair company. They can provide guidance and help. They can also carry out an inspection of your double glazing to identify the source of the draught and suggest the best course of action.
You should ensure that your double glazing comes with a warranty and what it will cover. A lot of companies provide a guarantee that lasts for 10 or 20 years, or sometimes, the lifetime guarantee, which is worth checking before you do any work on your double-glazed windows.