Double Glazing Seal Repairs
If the seals on double glazing windows have been damaged they can lead to damp and mould. This could cause damage to the frame and the walls surrounding it, in addition to impacting your health.
Fortunately, the majority of uPVC windows can be repaired using sealing and resealing instead of replacing. A glazier is usually able to clean the window frame and glass, apply a new bead of sealant and smooth it.
Water Leaks
Window seals are designed to keep moisture out of your home. However, when they begin to break down, it could result in water leaks around your windows. A leaking window unpleasant but it can also cause expensive damage to your home's structure. It is essential to recognize the issue early and get it fixed by a professional before it gets any worse.
The source of leaking windows can often be found not in the glass, but rather on the frame or sill. This is the most frequent sign of a leaky seal. It may be caused by damage to the window seal from weather conditions or aging, worn-out caulking or even an obstruction to drainage that results in the accumulation of water or ice.
Water appearing between the double-glazed panes can be a indication that your window seal is failing. Although, this isn't as risky as a leak since the water doesn't travel long enough to enter your home. It does mean, however that the inert gasses that are sandwiched between your windows have escaped out. This can reduce the insulation value of your window.
Condensation in between the panes is another indication of a damaged seal. This could be caused by a failed seal or a damp atmosphere in your home. It could also be a issue with the glass. The condensation might not just be a nuisance, but it could also cause the growth of mould and mildew within your home, which can be very difficult and expensive to remove.
If you are seeing these signs, it's time for an inspection of your double-glazed windows. Repairs or replacements can aid in preventing your home from water leaks, cut down on the cost of energy, and also keep out draughts. It's a small expense to pay for your family's safety and comfort. Contact Thompson Creek Window today to discuss your options for a window seal repair or replacement. Our experts are always available to assist! We provide assistance to homeowners throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
Condensation
A damaged double-glazing seal could let water in the space that is used for insulation. The water could cause condensation inside the window panes. It could also result in misting or fogging.
If you see condensation in your home It's time to call a double glazing repair service. Condensation can be an indication that the vacuum seal made at the factory failed and moisture has seeped into the enclosed space.
Condensation can be caused by variety of factors and is usually caused by gaskets, sealants or insulation in the uPVC frames of the windows. Therefore, there are a few different double glazing seal repair options but it is essential that the new seal is correctly sized to ensure a perfect fit and a water-tight seal.
Gaskets are usually made of polyurethane, which is a material that could be used to close gaps between double-glazed units. These are designed to last for a long time however, they may degrade as time passes due to natural wear and tear as well as exposure to various temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
Over time the foam can shrink or crack. This can lead to a break in your seal and allow moisture to enter the double-glazed window. This can result in condensation and decrease in energy efficiency.
Re-sealing the windows is one way to fix this problem. But, this isn't 100% guaranteed to fix the issue as it may only eliminate the condensation that has formed and does not address the underlying issues that cause your double-glazed windows to leak or form condensation.
A professional who can offer an insurance-backed guarantee should replace your windows completely. If the company fails, you're still protected by insurance. It's worth mentioning that the warranty on your replacement windows must be at least 10 years.
Misting
As double glazing window repairs get closer it's a good idea check that your double glazing seals are in good condition. Seals that have worn-out can impact the properties of your windows' insulation and can also lead to condensation, mold and dampness. It's important to fix any issues with your double-glazed windows as quickly as you can to prevent further damage and save money on energy costs.
Double-glazed windows are constructed of two glass panes which are held together by a gas-filled internal space. A sealant layer on the outside fills in the gap between the uPVC frame and the glass. This is vital to ensure the air-tight sealing that keeps cool and warm air from your home which will save you money on heating bills. The seals may become damaged as time passes due to the weather, aging, or poor installation. The encapsulation formula that makes double glazed windows so effective can begin to lose its effectiveness once this happens.
If not checked or unchecked, damaged or defective seals can cause damp and condensation 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 in your home. They can also cause allergens and irritants that can be detrimental to your health and the health of your family members.
One of the most frequent issues that can occur with your double glazing is that it can leak between the panes. This occurs when moisture gets in the insulated part of your windows. It can be difficult to fix without professional double-glazing repair.
DIY solutions to this issue are available, however we advise against them as they could be messy and can damage your windows. These methods involve drilling holes into the glass unit and applying 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 have the equipment as well as the skills and experience to safely seal uPVC frames. They can also give you lasting results. Not to mention they can also provide guidance on the best methods to maintain your uPVC windows to prevent any future problems.
Draughts
A draft coming from your window is an indication that the sealant has failed and must be replaced or repaired. This will prevent cold air getting into your home, improve energy efficiency and lower heating costs, and also improve 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 certain cases it may be possible to fix this by simply filling the gap with silicone caulk. If this does not work, you'll require the seal to be professionally resealed.
If the sealant around a double-glazed window starts to degrade and allow water to enter and can lead to damp or even mold in certain instances. This could affect health and cause damage to the property. It is important to address any water ingress issues when you notice them and if your windows are still under guarantee it is advisable to check with the company that you purchased windows from, as they might pay for the repairs.
The windows themselves are usually covered by a warranty which can be a minimum of 10 years However, certain companies offer lifetime warranties - so it's worth taking a look. 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 that you're experiencing. It is best to contact the company in person, or by letter and email. This will ensure that everything is recorded and clear.
It is important to note that draughts can often be caused by faulty hinges, not 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 in time if not regularly oiled. This can create a gap between the sash and the frame which could let cold air in. Replacing the hinges will fix this issue without affecting window seals.