Double Glazing Seal Repairs
If the seals of double glazing windows have been damaged, they can cause damp and mould. This could cause damage to the frame as well as the walls surrounding it, as well as affecting your health.
Fortunately, most uPVC windows can be repaired with sealing and resealing instead of replacing. A glazier will clean the frame and glass of the window, apply a new bead, and smooth it.
Water Leaks
Window seals are designed for moisture to stay out of your home. However, when they begin to break down, it can cause water leaks around your windows. A leaking window is not only a nuisance but can also cause costly damage to the structure of your home. It is crucial to spot the issue early and get it fixed by an expert before it gets worse.
The source of leaking windows is usually not in the glass itself but on the frame or sill. A leak in this area is the most frequent indication of a damaged window seal. It could be caused by damage to the seal due to weather or aging or worn caulking or even a blocked drain resulting in an accumulation of ice or water.
Another common sign of a window seal failing is the appearance of water between the panes of your double-glazed windows. This isn't as hazardous as a water leak, because the water does not travel far enough to reach into your home. It does mean, however that the inert gases that are trapped between your panes have leaked out. This will reduce the insulation value of your window.
Condensation in between the panes is another typical sign of a failed seal. This could be due to an ineffective seal or a damp environment within your home. It could also be a problem with the glass. The condensation may not only be a nuisance, but it could also cause the development of mildew and mould in your home which can be very difficult and expensive to remove.
If you're seeing these indicators, it's the time to have an inspection of your double glazed windows. Replacing or repairing your windows will protect your home from water leaks, cut down on energy bills, and reduce draughts. It's a small cost to pay for the comfort and safety of your family. Contact Thompson Creek Window to discuss your options regarding window seal repair or replacement. Our staff is always ready to help! We provide assistance to homeowners throughout the Mid-Atlantic.
Condensation
A broken double-glazing seal can allow water to enter the insulating space. The water could cause condensation inside the window panes, and could cause fogging or misting.
If you see condensation forming inside your home it's time to call in an experienced double glazing repair service. Condensation is an indication that the vacuum seal drawn by the factory has failed and moisture is seeping into the gap between the insulated and non-insulated.
Condensation can be caused by a variety of reasons, but it is most commonly a result of faulty gaskets, sealants or insulation within the uPVC frame of the windows. Therefore, there are a few different double glazing repair options, however it is essential that the seal you choose to replace is properly designed to ensure an ideal fit and a water-tight seal.
Typically gaskets used to fill in the gaps between double-glazed units are made of polyurethane foam. They are designed to be long-lasting however, they may degrade over time due to natural wear and tear, as well as exposure to different temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
As time passes the foam can shrink or crack over time. This can cause a break in your seal and allow moisture to seep into the double-glazed window. This can result in condensation and a decrease in energy efficiency.
Re-sealing the windows is a solution to this issue. This isn't a 100% solution as it will eliminate the condensation that is already present and not address the root issues that are causing the double-glazed windows to leak or develop condensate.
Another option is to replace your windows completely and this should be done by a professional that offers an insurance-backed guarantee. If the company fails, you're still protected by insurance. It is important to remember that your replacement windows should have a warranty of at minimum 10 years.
Misting
As the autumn months approach it's a good idea check that your double glazing seals are in good shape. The damaged seals on your windows not only affect the insulative properties of your windows, but can also cause condensation, mold and damp. To prevent further damage to your double-glazed windows and save money on energy costs it is essential to fix any problems as soon as possible.
A standard double glazed window is made up of two panes of glass joined by an internal space that's filled with gas. The outer sealant layer fills the gap between the uPVC frames and the glass. This is vital to ensure the airtight seal that keeps warm and cool air separate in your home, saving money on your heating costs. Unfortunately, over time these seals will be damaged due to aging, weather conditions or even poor installation. double glazing window repairs that makes double-glazed windows so efficient can start to deteriorate when this occurs.
If seals that are damaged or broken are not fixed they could cause dampness and condensation, which could impact your health as well as the appearance of your window. The presence of mould and damp can cause damage to your floors, walls and ceilings but can also create allergens and irritants within your home that could cause harm to you and your family's health.
The most frequent issue with double glazing is the misting between the panes. This occurs when moisture gets into the insulated area of your window. It can be very difficult to fix without professional help for repair of the seal on your double glazing.
There are DIY methods of tackling this problem, however, we'd advise against it because it's not only dangerous but also very messy and damage your windows. These methods involve drilling holes into the glass units and applying chemicals to get rid of the fog & condensation. This could lead to a variety of problems, such as the possibility of exposing your windows and units to water damage.
Professional glaziers have the skills, tools and experience to safely reseal your uPVC frames and give you long-lasting results. They can also offer advice on how to keep your uPVC window in good condition to avoid future problems.
Draughts
A draft coming from your window is a sign that the sealant has broken down and needs to be repaired or replaced. This will block cold air from entering your home. It will also increase the efficiency of your energy, reduce heating costs, and improve comfort.
It is important to note that some draughts are not caused by window seals but rather from the gap between the frame of the bricks. In some cases, it can be possible to fix the issue by filling the gap by caulking it with silicone. If this is not successful it must be resealed professionally.
When the sealant around double-glazed windows starts to breakdown and allows water to infiltrate. This can cause damp or even mold. This can cause harm to health and can cause damage to property. It is essential to address any water ingress problems as soon as you spot them. If your windows are still under guarantee it is worth contacting the company that you purchased them from, as they may cover the cost of the repairs.
The windows themselves are typically covered by a warranty which can last at least 10 years However, certain companies offer lifetime warranties - so it is worth checking this information out. If your double glazing is under warranty, it's worth contact the company you bought the windows from as soon as possible and giving them the details of any issues you are experiencing. It is best to contact the company in person, or by email and letter. This will ensure that everything is documented and clear.
It is important to note that draughts are often caused by defective hinges, rather than the absence of seals that are effective. The hinges are responsible for closing the window sash (the section that you open) but can become stiffer over time if they are not regularly oiled. This could leave gaps between the sash and the frame and allow cold air in. Replacing these hinges will solve this issue, without affecting window seals.