If double glazing window seals break, it can lead to damp and mould. This can cause damage to the frame and the walls surrounding it, and also impacting your health.
Fortunately, resealing is a more cost-effective way to repair most uPVC window frames than to replace them. A glazier will clean the frame and the glass of the window. They will apply a new bead, and smooth it.
Water Leaks
Window seals are designed for moisture to stay out of your home. When they start to wear down, water could be leaking around your windows. Not only is a leaky window irritating, but it can cause costly damage to your home's structure. It is essential to recognize an issue early and have it fixed by a professional before it worsens.
The source of leaking windows is usually not in the glass itself but on the frame or sill. This is the most common indication of a failed seal. It could be due to damage to the window seal as a result of weather conditions or aging, worn-out caulking or even a blocked drainage section resulting in the accumulation of ice or water.
The appearance of water between double-glazed panes is a common sign that your window seal is failing. However, this isn't as risky as a leak because the water doesn't travel far enough to get into your home. It does mean, however, that the inert gases that are encased between your panes have escaped out. This will reduce the effectiveness of the insulation in your window.
The final common indication of a failing window seal is condensation that forms between the panes. This could be caused by an ineffective seal or a damp atmosphere in your home. It could also be a problem with the glass. It's not just a nuisance however, the condensation could lead to mould and mildew growth in your home. This can be a challenge and costly.
If you are seeing these signs, it's time for an examination of your double-glazed windows. The repair or replacement of your windows will protect your home from water leaks, cut down on energy bills, and eliminate draughts. It's a small cost to pay for the security and comfort of your family. Contact Thompson Creek Window to discuss your options regarding window seal repair or replacement. Our professionals are always happy to help! We serve homeowners in the Mid-Atlantic.
Condensation
A broken double-glazing seal can let water in the insulating space. This can lead to condensation within the window panes and may also result in fogging or misting.
If you notice condensation developing in your home, it's time to call an experienced double glazing repair service. The condensation could be a sign that the vacuum seal installed by the factory failed and water has gotten into the insulation.
Condensation can be caused by a number of causes, but it's most commonly a result of faulty gaskets or sealants, or insulation in the uPVC frame of the windows. There are several options for double glazing seal repairs however it is essential that the new seals are correctly sized in order to ensure a perfect seal and a tight fit.
Typically gaskets used to fill in the gaps between your double-glazed units are made from a material such as polyurethane foam. They are designed to last a long time however, they may degrade over time due to wear and tear and exposure to various temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
As time passes, the foam may shrink or crack over time. This can cause cracks in the seal and allow moisture to get into the double-glazed window. This can result in condensation and a decrease in energy efficiency.
One solution to this problem is to have the windows sealed. This is not a sure solution since it will only remove the existing condensation and not address the underlying problems that are causing the double-glazed window to leak or develop condensate.
A professional who can offer an insurance-backed warranty should replace your windows completely. If the company fails, you are still covered by insurance. It's important to know that your replacement windows must be covered by a warranty of at least 10 years.
Misting
As the autumn months approach it's a good idea to make sure that your double glazing seals are in good condition. Window seals that are damaged or worn out do don't just affect the insulation properties of your windows but could also cause damp, mold and condensation. To avoid further damage to your double-glazed windows and save money on energy bills It is important to address any issues as quickly as you can.
Double-glazed windows are constructed of two glass panes which are held together by a gas-filled internal space. The sealant layer on the outside fills in the gap between the uPVC frames and the glass. This is essential to maintain the air-tight seal which keeps warm and cold air separate in your home, thereby saving the cost of heating. Unfortunately, over time, these seals will be damaged due to aging and weather conditions, or inadequate installation. After this the magic formula for insulation that makes your double-glazed windows so effective can begin to deteriorate.
If the seals are damaged or defective and aren't repaired they could cause condensation and dampness which can impact your health as well as the appearance of your window. Dampness and moisture can cause damage to ceilings, walls floors, and other surfaces in your home. They can also produce allergens and irritants which are detrimental to your health and the health of your family members.
The most frequent issue with double glazing is misting between the panes. This happens when moisture gets into the insulated area of your windows. It can be difficult to repair without professional double glazing repair.
DIY solutions to this issue are available, however, we recommend against them because they could be messy and damage your windows. These methods involve drilling holes into your glass unit and then using chemicals to get rid of fog and condensation. This can lead to many problems, most notably exposing your windows to water damage that could ruin the unit completely.
Professional glaziers have the tools, skills and experience necessary to safely reseal uPVC frames. They can also offer you long-lasting results. Not to mention they can also give advice on the best ways to maintain your uPVC windows to prevent future problems.
Draughts
A draft coming from your window is a sign that the sealant has been damaged and must be replaced or repaired. This will stop cold air getting into your home, improve the efficiency of your energy and reduce heating costs, and also improve comfort levels and temperature control.
It is important to remember that some draughts aren't caused by window seals, but rather by the gap between the frame of the bricks. In some cases it may be possible to repair this by caulking the gap. If this does not work, you'll require the seal to be professionally repaired.
When the sealant around double-glazed windows begins to break down, it allows water ingress. This can result in dampness or even mold. This can affect your health and can be very detrimental to the property. If you find any issues with water ingress it is important to address them as soon as possible. If your windows are covered by a guarantee you should determine if the company who supplied them will be able to cover the cost.
The windows themselves are usually covered by a warranty which could last for a minimum of 10 years however some businesses offer lifetime warranties - so it is worth taking a look. If your double-glazed windows are covered by a warranty, you should consider calling the company you bought the windows from as soon as possible and providing them with the details of any issues you are having. The ideal approach is to do this in person or via mail or email, to ensure that everything is recorded and clear.
It is also worth noting that draughts may be caused by damaged hinges, not an ineffective seal. The hinges cover the window sash which is the part you open. If they're not regularly oiling them they could become stiff. This can leave a gap between the frame and the sash which could allow cold air in. This problem can be solved by replacing these hinges without affecting window seals.
