Double Glazing Seal Repairs
If the seals of double-glazed windows are damaged they could cause damp and mould. This could cause damage to the frame and walls surrounding it and impact your health.
Fortunately, most uPVC windows can be repaired by sealing and resealing instead of replacing. A glazier is usually able to clean the window frame and glass and then apply a new layer of sealant and smooth it.
Water Leaks
Window seals are designed to keep moisture out of your home. However, when they start to wear down, it can cause water leaks around your windows. A window that is leaking is not only annoying but it can cause significant damage to the surrounding structure of your home. It is essential to recognize the problem early and get it fixed by an expert before it gets worse.
The most common cause of the windows that leak is not the glass but on the frame and sill. A leak in this region is the most typical indication of a failing window seal. It could be due to damage to the seal caused by weather or aging wear-out caulking, or even a blocked drain section which can lead to the accumulation of water or ice.
Another indication of a window seal failing is the appearance of water between the panes of double-glazed windows. However, this isn't as risky as a leak, since the water doesn't travel enough to get into your home. However, it could indicate that the inert gas that is sandwiched between the panes of glass has been released, which can reduce the insulation value of your windows.
The last sign of a damaged window seal is condensation that forms between the panes. This may be caused by the window seal failing, or it could be due to a damp climate in your home or a problem with the glass. The condensation can not only be unpleasant, but it could also cause the development of mildew and mould in your home which can be very difficult and expensive to remove.
It's time to inspect your double-glazed windows if you see these indications. The repair or replacement of your windows will help protect your home against water leaks, cut down on energy bills, and reduce draughts. It's a small expense to provide your family with comfort and safety. Contact Thompson Creek Window to discuss your options for window seal repair or replacement. Our experienced professionals are happy to help! We serve homeowners throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
Condensation
A broken seal for double glazing can allow water into the gap between the insulating elements. This water can cause fogging or misting within the window panes.
If you notice condensation inside your home you should contact an expert in double glazing repair. The condensation is a sign that the vacuum seal fabricated at the factory has been damaged and moisture is getting into the insulated gap.
Condensation can be caused by a variety of factors but it is usually the result of faulty gaskets or sealants, or insulation in the uPVC frame of the windows. In the end there are different double glazing repair options, however it is crucial that the new seal is properly measured to ensure the perfect fit and water-tight seal.
Typically, the gaskets that are used to fill in the gaps between your double-glazed units are made from polyurethane foam. They are designed to last a long time, but can deteriorate over time because of wear and tear or exposure to changes in temperatures and weather conditions.
Over time, the foam may shrink or crack. This could lead to cracks in your seal and allow moisture to enter the double-glazed window. This can cause condensation but it can also result in the loss of energy efficiency, meaning that you're losing heat from your home to the outside air.
Re-sealing windows is one way to fix this problem. However, this isn't certain to solve the issue since it will only remove the condensation that has formed, but does not address the underlying issues that cause your double-glazed windows ' to leak or to form condensation.
Another option is to have your windows replaced completely. This should be handled by a professional that offers an insurance backed guarantee. If the company fails, you're still protected by insurance. It's important to note that replacement windows must be warranted for at minimum 10 years.
Misting
As the fall months get closer, it's a good idea to ensure that your double-glazing seals are in good working order. Window seals that are damaged can affect your windows' insulative properties, but also cause dampness, mold and condensation. To prevent further damage to your double-glazed windows and to reduce energy costs It is important to address any issues as quickly as you can.
A typical double-glazed window is made from two glass panes connected by an internal space that's filled with gas. A layer of sealant on the outside fills the gap between the uPVC frame and the glass. This is vital to ensure the airtight seal that keeps warm and cool air from your home, saving money on your heating costs. The seals may become damaged as time passes because of weather conditions, aging or poor installation. Once this happens, the magic insulation formula that makes double glazed windows so effective can begin to lose its effectiveness.
If not checked or unchecked, damaged or defective seals could lead to condensation and damp which will not only ruin the appearance of your windows, but could also affect your health. Moisture and dampness can cause damage to walls, ceilings flooring, floors and other surfaces within your home. They can also cause allergens and irritants which are detrimental to your health and the health of your family.
One of the most common problems that can happen to your double glazing is the possibility of misting in between the panes. This happens when moisture gets into the insulated area of your window. This is very difficult to fix without professional double glazing seal repair.
There are DIY ways to deal with this problem, however, we'd advise against it because it's not only dangerous but also extremely dirty and damage your windows. These methods involve drilling holes into the glass unit and applying chemicals to get rid of fog and condensation. This could lead to a variety of issues, including exposing your windows and units to water damage.
Professional glaziers have the expertise and tools required to properly seal your uPVC frames and give you lasting results. They can also give you suggestions on how to properly maintain your uPVC window to avoid future problems.
Draughts
A draft that is coming from your window indicates that the sealant is likely to have deteriorated. It needs to be repaired or replaced. This will stop cold air from entering your home, improve the efficiency of your energy and reduce heating costs and improve comfort levels and indoor temperature control.
It is important to know that some draughts are not caused by window seals, but rather by the gap between the bricks' frame. In certain cases, it could be possible to repair this by caulking the gap. If this is not successful it will require resealing professionally.
When the sealant around a double-glazed window starts to break down, it allows for water ingress and can cause dampness or even mold in a few instances. This can affect your health and could be detrimental to the property. If you observe any issues with water intrusion, you should deal with them as soon as possible. If your windows are covered by a warranty, it's worth checking to see if the company that sold them will cover the cost.
The windows themselves are usually covered by a warranty that could last for a minimum of 10 years, but some companies offer lifetime warranties - therefore it is worthwhile taking a look. If your double glazing is under warranty, you must contact the company who sold them as quickly as you can and inform them about any issues you're experiencing. Ideally, it is best to do this in person or via letters and emails, to ensure everything is documented and clear.
It is also worth noting that draughts can be usually caused by defective hinges and not by a lack effective seals. The hinges close the window sash which is the part that you open. If they are not regularly oiling them and become stiff, they may develop. This can leave gaps between the sash and the frame, which can allow cold air to enter. This issue can be fixed by replacing the hinges without impacting window seals.