When window seals are damaged, it can lead to more energy bills and windows that are foggy. Engaging a professional for repair of the damaged seals will stop the problem from getting worse.
The window seals are essential to the insulation provided by double glazing. They're simple to fix and can save you money in the end.
Take off the Old Seal
The seals could break for numerous reasons. They may be damaged due to improper installation or become broken through time due to normal wear and tear. While it's impossible to prevent a window seal from breaking, taking some precautions can ensure that the problem is less likely to occur. Avoiding the power washing of your windows for instance, 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 panes of glass. This is caused when the gas that acts as an insulator such as argon or krypton that was vacuum sealed between the two panes of glass has escaped. After this occurs, the window is no longer able to keep moisture and cold air out of the house.
Repairing a window seal that's damaged is simple. You can purchase a new wedge gasket seal from any hardware store and it should be easily installed on your uPVC windows. If you are worried that you won't be able to install the new seal properly you can spray water on the outside of the window frame to to lubricate the process.
Before you start installing the new seal, it is important to check that there aren't any obstructions in the grooves of your window frame. This can include melting uPVC pieces that are typically left over from previous repairs. You can use a chisel to remove these areas prior to you start the repair. This will ensure that the new rubber seal is a perfect fit into your window frame.
It is possible to fix an infected uPVC seal yourself however it's better to leave it to the professionals. A professional glazier has the equipment and experience to finish the job quickly and with minimum risk to your uPVC window.
Clean the Surface
When double glazing windows are properly installed and maintained, they offer excellent insulation and reduce noise pollution. However, a window seal that is damaged can let in moisture and air which can cause numerous issues like condensation. Moisture in a glass frame can be ugly but it also causes mould to grow and damage the frame. Repairs by a professional are needed. Other indicators of a faulty sealing include a draft that may be uncomfortable and costly to heat, or glass distortion which could affect light transmission and impact on the view.
Double glazing windows can be easily repaired, especially if you catch the problem early. While it is possible to complete this yourself, a professional will be advised because they have the knowledge and access to the materials that can provide long-lasting results.
To begin the process it is important to eliminate any existing silicone sealant that is removed by carefully scraping off the old material using a sharp blade. After that, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned to get rid of any dirt and debris that might have accumulated. Once the surface is clean, the next step is to seal the window.
Before sealing the unit first, turn the bottom pane upside down, so that the glass face that was originally inside the sealed unit faces upwards. The surface must be thoroughly cleaned using dry, clean cloth.
Drilling holes in windows that are double-glazed is usually not a good idea, but when it's a matter of saving money and preventing the need for a call from a professional out, a small hole in the seal could be used to put in the desiccate container that will absorb any moisture that may have accumulated between the two glass panes. The hole could then be cleaned with rubbing alcohol (isopropyl) to prevent the growth of mould.
Double-glazed windows are designed to last, however they do sometimes break down. A lot of people require repairs to double glazing. Most often windows fail to seal when there is condensation between the glass panes or when there are drafts.
Apply for a New Seal
Window seals are important for maintaining a tight and efficient glass-to-frame connection, no matter if you've just moved into your home or have recently installed double-glazed windows. As time passes the seals could be damaged due to aging and external influences like weather. If the seals are damaged, you must make the necessary steps to repair them as quickly as possible. This will prevent moisture from getting between the glass panes, which can lead to condensation, energy loss and even damage to your home.
It is recommended to pick a day with low rainfall during the time you're doing this work. You'll be working with a window open, therefore you shouldn't be concerned about large amounts of rainwater to flow into your house and possibly causing damage to the new seals. Wear eye protection if you're using power tools to take off old window seals. It's easy to let dust or debris into your eyes.
It's important to thoroughly clean the surface after taking off the old seal prior to applying the new one. Using a utility knife or putty knife, clear all residuals from the area and then apply a new coat of silicone caulking to seal the gap. Add a globule to the outside of the frame as well. This will create an airtight seal and waterproof seal around the glass.
Paint the exterior of your window frames to shield them against the elements. This is a great method to protect the integrity of the window, especially in hot weather.
You can repair the windows yourself, however in the event of a major issue, it is best to speak with a professional company that specializes in window sealing. This means you can be assured that the new seals will be put in place correctly, ensuring that your windows are secure and efficient in energy use.
Allow the Seal to Cure
Double-glazed windows are an excellent choice for homeowners because it guards against the elements, holds the heat generated by your heating system within and stops sunlight from getting out. It is only able to do this when the window seal is properly installed. A failed seal can cause condensation and mist to form between glass panes. It could cause energy loss, draughts, and even security concerns. It is therefore crucial to address a damaged seal as soon as possible to prevent damage to the window as well as your home.
One of the most effective methods to determine if the window seal has failed is to feel for draughts or cold leaking from the corners of the frame. If you feel it, the window gasket has sunk and is no longer making the seal. Another method to determine this is to look for signs of misting and condensation between the glass panes of double-glazed windows. Both of these issues are caused by a breach in the seal of the double glazed window that allows moisture to enter the window and weakens its insulation capabilities.
There are double glazing window repairs to reseal the double glazing seals available if you are a DIY-er. These kits typically require drilling a small hole into the window and cleaning it using a magnet. They then insert drying pellets which disappear, and then plug the hole with clear concrete. 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.
If you've attempted to repair your window seals yourself or have hired a professional company, it is crucial that you allow the new seal to dry before using. It could take up to a couple of days to a few weeks for the sealant to fully cure, so it is best to wait until then to open the window again. It is important to take care of a window that has just been sealed with diligence. To protect it from staining or scratches, you can lay down an old towel on the work surface.
