If the seals on double-glazed windows are damaged, they can cause damp and mould. This can damage the frame and walls surrounding it and can affect your health.
Fortunately, the majority of uPVC windows can be repaired using sealing, not replacement. A glazier will typically clean the frame of the window and the glass, apply a new bead of sealant, then smooth it.
Water Leaks
Window seals are made to keep moisture from your home. When they begin to wear down, water could get into your windows. double glazing repairs is a leaking window irritating however, it could also cause significant damage to your home's structure. It is essential to recognize the issue early and get it repaired by an expert before it gets worse.
The cause of windows that leak can often be found not in the glass itself but on the frame or sill. A leak in this region is the most typical indication of a failing window seal. It may be caused by damage to the window seal as a result of weather or aging, worn out caulking, or even a blocked drainage section resulting in the accumulation of ice or water.
Water that is visible between the double-glazed panes is a common indication that the window seal has failed. While this isn't quite as risky as a leak, since the water doesn't travel far enough to reach your home. It does mean, however, that the inert gases that are encased between your windows have escaped out. This can lower the effectiveness of the insulation in your window.
The final sign of a damaged window seal is condensation between the panes. This could be caused by a failed seal or a damp climate in your home. It could also be due to a issue with the glass. The condensation might not just be irritating but it can also cause the growth of mold and mildew in your home that is difficult and expensive to remove.
If you're noticing these signs, it's time for an examination of your double-glazed windows. Repairing or replacing your windows will help protect your home against water leaks, cut down on energy bills, and reduce draughts. It's a small expense to pay for your family's comfort and safety. Contact Thompson Creek Window today to discuss your options for window seal repair or replacement. Our staff is always ready to assist you! We serve homeowners in the Mid-Atlantic.
Condensation
A broken double-glazing seal can let water in the insulating space. This water could cause fogging or misting within the window panes.
If you are noticing condensation inside your home It's time to call a double glazing repair company. The condensation is a sign that the vacuum seal fabricated by the factory has failed and moisture is seeping into the insulated gap.
Condensation can be caused by a number of causes, but it's most commonly a result of gaskets that are not properly fitted or sealants, or insulation in the uPVC frame of the windows. Therefore, there are a few different double glazing repair options, however it is crucial that the new seal is correctly measured to ensure an ideal fit and a water-tight seal.
Gaskets are generally composed of polyurethane, which is a material that could be used to fill in gaps between double-glazed units. These are designed to be long-lasting but they can perish over time due to wear and tear as well as exposure to different temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
Over time the foam will shrink or crack and this causes a break in the seal which allows moisture to enter those areas of your double-glazed windows. This can cause condensation and a loss in energy efficiency.
One option to fix this issue is to have the windows resealed. This is not a guaranteed solution as it will eliminate the condensation that is already present and not address the root issues that are causing the double-glazed windows to leak or create condensate.
A professional who is able to provide an insurance-backed guarantee must replace your windows completely. If the company fails, you are still covered by insurance. It is important to remember that your replacement windows must be covered by a warranty of at minimum 10 years.
Misting
Check that your double-glazing seals are in good condition as the fall season approaches. The damaged seals on your windows don't just affect the insulation properties of your windows, but can also lead to condensation, mold and damp. It's important to fix any issues in your double-glazed windows as soon as possible to avoid further damage and save on energy bills.
A typical double-glazed window is made up of two glass panes held together by an internal space filled with gas. A sealant layer on the outside fills in the gap between the uPVC frame and the glass. This is crucial to maintaining the air-tight seal that keeps warm and cold air separated in your home, thereby saving money on your heating bills. Unfortunately, over time these seals will be damaged due to aging and weather conditions, or inadequate installation. After this the encapsulation formula that makes your double-glazed windows so effective could begin to lose its effectiveness.
If left unchecked, damaged or faulty seals could lead to condensation and damp that can ruin the appearance of your windows, but could also affect your health. The presence of mould and damp not only causes damage to your floors, walls and ceilings, but they also cause irritants and allergens within your home, which can be harmful to you and your family's health.
One of the most frequent 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 part of your window. It can be very difficult to fix without professional help for repair of the seal on your double glazing.
There are DIY methods of tackling this issue, however, we'd recommend against this as it's not only risky but can be extremely hazardous and destructive to 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 complications, including the possibility of exposing your windows and units to water damage.
Professional glaziers possess the knowledge, tools and experience to properly seal your uPVC frames and provide you with long-lasting results. They can also provide suggestions on how to properly keep your uPVC window in good condition to avoid problems in the future.
Draughts
A draft coming from your window is a sign that the sealant is likely to have been damaged. It needs to be repaired or replaced. This will stop cold air from entering your home, improve efficiency in energy use and lower heating costs, and also make a difference to comfort levels and temperature control.
It is important to know that some draughts are not caused by window seals but rather the gap between the bricks' frames. In certain cases, it could be possible to fix this by simply caulking the gap. However, if this method is not working, it will require resealing professionally.
If the sealant around the double-glazed window begins to degrade, it allows for water infiltration and can lead to dampness or even mold in certain instances. This can affect health and can cause damage to the property. It is essential to address any water ingress problems when you spot them. If your windows are still in warranty, it is worth contacting the company that you purchased windows from, as they might cover the cost of the repairs.
The windows themselves are usually covered by a warranty that can last a minimum of 10 years however some businesses offer lifetime warranties - so it's worth taking a look. If your double glazing is under warranty, it is recommended to contact the company who sold them as quickly as you can and inform them about any problems you are experiencing. The ideal approach is to make this contact in person or via email and letter, so all information is documented and clear.
It is also worth noting that draughts can be usually caused by defective hinges, and not due to a lack effective seals. The hinges are responsible for closing the window sash (the section that you open) but can become stiffer as time passes if they're not regularly oiled. This could cause a gap develop between the frame of the sash and the sash, which lets cold air into the house. This issue can be fixed by replacing the hinges without impacting window seals.
