Why You Should Hire a Glazier to Repair Double Glazing Seals
When window seals are damaged it can lead to increased energy bills and foggy windows. Employing a professional to repair the broken seals will prevent the issue from getting worse.
double glazing window repairs play a crucial role in the insulative benefit double glazing can provide. They're also easy to repair and can save you money over the long haul.
Take off the Old Seal
Window seals break for various reasons. They can be damaged due to inadequate installation or break due to normal wear and tear. Although it is impossible to stop a window from breaking, you can take some steps to lessen the possibility of this happening. Avoiding cleaning your windows with power, for example, can reduce the risk of damage from high water pressure. Make sure that the manufacturer of the windows does not recommend using reflective window films as they can damage the seal.
In the case of double glazed windows, the most frequent sign that a seal has been broken is the appearance of condensation between the two glass panes. This is caused when the inert gas that is used to insulate like argon or krypton that was sealed by vacuum between the two glass panes of the window has escaped. When this occurs, the window will be not able to keep cold air and moisture from entering the home.
Fortunately, repairing a faulty window seal is quite simple. You can purchase a replacement wedge gasket seal from any hardware store, and it can be easily installed in your uPVC windows. If you are worried that you might not be able install the new seal correctly, you can spray water on the exterior of the window frame to help in lubricating the process.
Before you begin installing the new seal, it's important to check that there aren't any obstructions within the grooves of your window frame. This could include melting pieces of uPVC that are usually left behind from previous repair attempts. You can remove these areas with the chisel prior to beginning to ensure that the new seal will fit properly in your window frame.
While it is possible to fix a broken uPVC window seal on your own however, it is better to leave the job to the professionals. A professional glazier will have the skills and tools necessary to finish the job quickly and efficiently, with minimal risk of damage to your uPVC windows.
Clean the Surface
If double-glazed windows are properly fitted and maintained, they offer excellent insulation and cut down on noise pollution. However window seals that is damaged may let in moisture and air that could cause numerous issues like condensation. The presence of moisture on the inside of a glass pane is not only unsightly but it can cause mould to form and cause damage to the frame, which is why it is necessary to have a professional repair. Other signs of a damaged sealing include a draft that may be uncomfortable and costly to heat or glass distortion which can alter light transmission and impact on the view.
The good aspect is that double-glazing windows are fairly simple to fix, especially when the problem is discovered early. While it is possible to complete the job yourself, a professional is typically recommended as they have the expertise and access to high-quality materials that can give long-lasting results.
To get the job started it is essential to get rid of any existing silicone sealant that is removed by carefully scraping away the old material with a sharp blade. After that, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned to remove any dirt or debris that might have accumulated. After cleaning the surface, the next step would be to reseal the windows.
Before resealing the unit, turn the bottom pane upside down, so that the glass face that was inside the sealed unit is facing upwards. Clean the surface thoroughly with a dry cloth and dry it to ensure that no water marks remain.
Drilling holes in windows that are double-glazed is generally a bad idea however, when it's a matter of saving money and avoiding the need for a professional call out A small hole in the seal can be used to tuck in a desiccate packet that will take in any moisture that might have built up between the two glass panes. The hole can be cleaned using ruby alcohol (isopropyl) to prevent the build-up of mould.
Double-glazed windows are designed to last, but they can break down. Many people require a double glazing repair. Most often, window seals fail when there is condensation between the glass panes or when there are drafts.
Apply for a New Seal
Whether you've recently moved into a new home or have just had your double-glazed windows installed, window seals play a important role in ensuring an airtight and efficient glass-to-frame connection. Over time, seals can become damaged due to weather conditions and other external factors. If the seals are damaged, it is important to make sure that you replace them as quickly as you can. This will prevent water from getting in between the glass panes and causing condensation, a reduction in energy efficiency, and even water damage to your home.
It's best to choose an afternoon with a low amount of rainfall while you're performing this task. You'll be working with the window open, therefore you shouldn't be concerned about large amounts of rainwater to flow into your house and potentially damaging the seals. Wear eye protection when using power tools to remove old window seals. It's easy to get debris or dust into your eyes.
After you've removed the old seal, you need to clean the surface prior applying a new one. Clean the area with a putty or utility knife and apply a fresh layer of silicone caulking. Make sure you apply a globule of the product to the outside of the frame as this will help create a waterproof and airtight seal around the glass.
It's also recommended to paint the exterior of your window frames since this will protect them from the elements. This is a great method to maintain the integrity of your window, particularly in hot temperatures.
You can seal the windows yourself, however in the event of a major issue, it is recommended to call a professional company that specializes in window sealing. You can be sure that the new seals have been properly installed, ensuring that your windows are energy efficient and safe.
Allow the seal to set
Double-glazed windows are a good choice for homeowners as it guards against the elements, keeps the heat generated by your heating system in and stops sunlight from getting out. However, it can only achieve this if the window has been sealed properly. A damaged window seal could result in condensation and mist between the glass panes, energy loss as well as draughts, and even security issues. To avoid damaging your window and home, it's essential to repair a damaged seal immediately.
You can test the seal on your window by feeling for draughts or cold around the corners of the frame. If you feel it, the window gasket has sunk and is no longer creating the seal. Also, you can check for condensation or misting between the glass panes of the double-glazed windows you have. Both of these issues are caused by a leak in the seal of the double glazed window which allows moisture into that section and compromises its insulation qualities.
If you are a keen DIYer, there are several DIY kits that can be used to reseal double glazing seals. They typically involve drilling a small hole into the window, then cleaning the inside using an instrument that is magnetic, then inserting drying pellets that eventually disappear, and plugging the hole using clear cement. However, while these kits do have a good track record of providing quick results, they do tend to need doing more often than professionally-installed windows and they don't always provide a lasting solution.
It is important to allow the sealant to dry completely before using it, whether you fixed your window seals yourself or hired an expert. It may take some days or several weeks to cure the sealant, so you should wait until that time to open the window. It is important to treat windows that have recently been resealed with diligence. To guard against staining or scratches it is best to lay an old towel on the work surface.