Double Glazing Seal Repairs
If the seals of double glazing windows are broken, they can cause damp and mould. This can cause damage to the frame and walls surrounding it, and also impacting your health.
Fortunately, the majority of uPVC windows can be repaired using sealing, not replacement. A glazier is usually able to clean the frame of the window and the glass and then apply a new layer of sealant, then smooth it.
Water Leaks
Window seals are made to keep moisture out of your home. As they wear down, water could be leaking around your windows. A leaking window irritating but it can also cause significant structural damage to your home's structure. It is essential to recognize the issue early and have it repaired by an expert before it gets worse.
Often, the source of your leaking windows is not the glass itself but rather on the frame and sill. A leak in this area is the most frequent indication of a damaged window seal. This can be due to damage to the seal due to weather or aging wear-out caulking, or even a blocked drain section that results in the accumulation of water or ice.
Another indication of a failing window seal is water appearing between the panes of double-glazed windows. However, this isn't as risky as a leak because the water doesn't travel enough to get into your home. However, it could suggest that the inert gas that is in between the panes has leaked out which will reduce the insulating value of your windows.
The final sign of a failed window seal is condensation between the panes. This could be due to a failed seal or a damp climate within your home. It could also be due to a problem with the glass. The condensation may not only be irritating but it can also lead to the development of mildew and mould in your home that can be very difficult and costly to get rid of.
It's time to check your double-glazed windows if notice these indications. The repair or replacement of your windows will protect your home against water leaks, reduce energy bills, and remove drafts. It's a small cost to pay for the security and comfort of your family. Contact Thompson Creek Window today to discuss your options for a window seal repair or replacement. Our knowledgeable professionals are ready to assist! We offer assistance to homeowners in the Mid-Atlantic.
Condensation
A damaged double-glazing seal could let water in the space that is used for insulation. This can lead to condensation within the window panes, and could cause misting or fogging.
When you notice condensation forming in your home, it's time to contact an experienced double glazing repair service. The condensation could be a sign that the vacuum seal made by the factory failed and water has gotten into the insulation.
Condensation can be caused by a range of causes however, the most common cause is gaskets, sealants or insulation in the uPVC frames of the windows. Therefore, there are a few different double glazing repair options but it is vital that the new seal is properly designed to ensure a perfect fit and a water-tight seal.
Gaskets are typically made of polyurethane, which is a material that can be used to close gaps between double-glazed units. They are designed to last a long time however, they may degrade as time passes due to natural wear and tear and exposure to various temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
As time passes the foam will shrink or crack over time. This can cause cracks in your seal, allowing moisture to seep into the double-glazed window. This not only creates condensation, but it could cause the loss of energy efficiency, which means that you're losing heat from your home to outside air.
Re-sealing windows is one way to fix this problem. This is not a guaranteed solution as it will eliminate the condensation that is already present and not address the root issues that cause the double-glazed windows to leak or form condensate.
Another solution is to replace your windows completely and this should be handled by a professional that offers an insurance backed guarantee. This means that if the company fails or goes under, you'll still be protected by the insurance. It is important to remember that your replacement windows must have a warranty of at least 10 years.
Misting
As autumn draws nearer, it's a good idea ensure that your double-glazing seals are in good shape. Seals that have damaged can affect your windows' insulative properties as well as cause dampness, mold and condensation. To prevent further damage to your double-glazed windows, and to save money on energy costs it is essential to fix any issues as soon as possible.
A standard double glazed window is made up of two glass panes that are held together by an internal space that's filled with gas. The sealant layer on the outside fills the gap between the uPVC frames and the glass. This is vital to ensure the airtight seal that keeps cold and warm air separate in your home, thereby saving money on your heating bills. Unfortunately, over time, these seals may fail due to age, weather conditions or even poor installation. Once this happens, the magic insulation formula that makes your double-glazed windows so efficient can begin to deteriorate.
If left unchecked leaks, damaged seals, or other issues can cause damp and condensation which can not only affect the appearance of your windows, but can also impact your health. The dampness and moisture can cause damage to ceilings, walls floors, and other surfaces in your home. They also create allergens and irritants that can be harmful to your health and the health of your family members.
The most common problem with double glazing is misting between the panes. This occurs when moisture gets into that insulated section of your window. It is very difficult to fix without professional double glazing seal repair.
There are DIY methods of tackling this issue, however, we'd recommend against this as it's not only risky but also very messy and destructive to your windows. These methods involve drilling into your glazed unit and using chemicals to eliminate fog and condensation. This could lead to a variety of problems, such as the possibility of exposing your windows and units to water damage.
Professional glaziers possess the tools and skills to properly reseal uPVC frames. They also can give you lasting results. Additionally they can also provide guidance on the best methods to maintain your uPVC windows to avoid future issues.
Draughts
A draft coming through your window indicates that the sealant could have broken down. It is recommended to repair it or replaced. This will prevent cold air getting into your home, improve the efficiency of your energy and reduce heating costs and make a difference to comfort levels and indoor temperature control.
It is also important to remember that not all draughts originate from the window seals but rather from the gap between the frame and bricks. In some cases, it can be possible to fix the issue by filling the gap by caulking it with silicone. If this does not work, it will need to have the seal professionally repaired.
When the sealant around windows with double glazing begins to degrade it allows water infiltration and can lead to dampness or even mold in a few instances. This can cause a negative impact on health and can be very damaging to property. It is crucial to take care of any water ingress issues immediately you spot them. If your windows are still covered by a guarantee, it is worth checking with the company you purchased them from, since they could pay for the repairs.
It is important to determine if the windows are covered under a warranty. Certain companies provide lifetime guarantees and others offer 10 years. If your double-glazed windows fall under warranty, it is recommended to contact the company that sold them as soon as you can and let them know about any issues you're experiencing. It is best to reach the company in person or by email and letter. This will ensure that everything is recorded and clear.
It is also important to remember that draughts are often caused by defective hinges, not the absence of seals that are effective. The hinges cover the window sash which is the part you open. If they are not oiling them regularly they could become stiff. This can create a gap between the frame and the sash, which can let cold air in. Replacing the hinges can solve this issue without affecting window seals.