Double Glazing Seal Repairs
If the seals of double-glazed windows are damaged they can lead to damp and mould. This can cause damage to the frame and the walls surrounding it, in addition to impacting your health.
Fortunately, resealing is a more cost-effective way to fix 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 made to prevent moisture to be kept out of your home. However, when they begin to break down, it can result in water leaks around your windows. A window that is leaking is not only annoying but it can cause significant damage to the surrounding structure of your home. It is crucial to spot a problem early and have it fixed by a professional before it gets any worse.
The cause of windows that leak is usually not in the glass, but rather on the frame or sill. This is the most typical indication of a failed seal. It can be caused by damage to the window seal due to weather or aging, worn-out caulking, or even a blocked drainage section resulting in a build-up of water or ice.
Another common sign of a window seal failing is water appearing between the panes of your double-glazed windows. Although, this isn't as dangerous as a leak since the water doesn't travel long enough to get into your home. However, it does indicate that the inert gas that is sandwiched between the panes of glass has lost its lubrication, which will lower the insulating value of your windows.
Condensation between the panes is another common indication of a damaged seal. It could be due to a failed seal or a damp atmosphere within your home. It could also be a problem with the glass. The condensation can not only be irritating but it can also cause the growth of mold and mildew in your home that is very difficult and costly to get rid of.
It's time to check your double-glazed windows when you see these indications. A repair or replacement will help protect your home from water leaks, reduce energy costs, and even stop draughts. It's a small cost to pay for your family's comfort and safety. Contact Thompson Creek Window today to discuss your options regarding a window seal repair or replacement. Our skilled professionals are here to help! We serve homeowners throughout the Mid-Atlantic region.
Condensation
A broken seal for double glazing can allow water to get into the insulating gap. This water could cause fogging or misting within the window panes.
If you see condensation forming in your home, it's time to call a professional double glazing repair service. The condensation is a sign that the seal created at the factory has failed and moisture is seeping into the gap between the insulated and non-insulated.
Condensation can be caused by a number of causes, but it's most commonly a result of defective gaskets and sealants, as well as insulation within the uPVC frame of the windows. Therefore, there are a few different double glazing seal repair options, but it is crucial that the seal you choose to replace is correctly sized to ensure an ideal fit and a water-tight seal.
Typically gaskets used to fill in the gaps between your double-glazed units are made from polyurethane foam. They are designed to last for a long time however, they may degrade in time because of wear and tear as well as exposure to different temperatures and weather conditions throughout the year.
As time passes the foam will shrink or crack, which creates a gap in the seal which allows moisture to creep into those areas of your double-glazed windows. This not only creates condensation but it can cause the loss of energy efficiency, meaning that you're losing heat from your home to outside air.
Re-sealing the windows is one way to fix this problem. This isn't a 100% solution since it will only remove the existing condensation and not address the issues that are causing the double-glazed window to leak or develop condensate.
Another option is to have your windows replaced completely. This should be handled by a professional who provides an insurance-backed guarantee. This means that if the company fails or goes under, you will remain protected by the insurance. It's important to know that your replacement windows should be covered by a warranty of at least 10 years.
Misting
Verify that your double-glazing seals are in good working order as the autumn season draws near. Window seals that are damaged or worn out do are not just detrimental to the insulation properties of your windows but could also cause condensation, mold, and damp. It is crucial to fix any issues in your double-glazed windows as soon as possible to prevent further damage and save money on energy costs.
A typical double-glazed window is made from two panes of glass connected by an internal space filled with gas. The outer sealant layer fills the gap between uPVC frames and the glass. This is essential to maintain the air-tight seal that keeps cold and warm air separate in your home, thereby saving money on your heating bill. However, over time, these seals will break down due to ageing and weather conditions, or poor installation. Once this happens the encapsulation formula that makes your double glazed windows so effective can begin to degrade.
If not checked leaks, damaged seals, or other issues can lead to damp and condensation which can not only affect the appearance of your windows but could also affect your health. Damp and mould not only causes damage to your floors, walls and ceilings, but they also create allergens and irritants within your home that could be harmful to your health and your family's health.
The most frequent issue with double glazing is the misting between the panes. This occurs when moisture is able to get into the insulated area of your window. This can be difficult to fix without professional help for repair of the seal on your double glazing.
DIY solutions to this problem are available, however we recommend against them because they can be messy and can damage your windows. These methods involve drilling holes into your glazed unit and using 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 have the equipment, skills and experience necessary to properly reseal uPVC frames. They also can provide you with 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 window that is draughty is a sign that the sealant has been damaged and must be replaced or repaired. This will stop the cold air from entering your home, improve energy efficiency and lower heating costs and increase comfort levels and indoor temperature control.
It is important to remember that some draughts aren't caused by the window seals but rather from the gap between the frame of the bricks. In certain cases, it can be possible to fix the issue by simply filling the gap with silicone caulk. However, if this method is not successful it must be resealed professionally.
When the sealant around double-glazed windows starts to breakdown, it allows water ingress. This can lead to damp or even mold. This can affect health, and cause damage to the property. It is important to address any water ingress issues as soon as you spot them. And if your windows are still under guarantee it is worth checking with the company you purchased windows from, since they could pay for the repairs.
The windows themselves are usually covered by a guarantee that can last a minimum of 10 years however certain companies offer lifetime warranties - therefore it is worthwhile taking a look. If your double-glazed windows are under warranty, it's worth contacting the company you purchased the windows from as soon as you can and giving them the details of any issues you're experiencing. It is recommended to contact the company in person, or by letter and email. This will ensure that everything is clearly documented and easily understood.
It is important to note that draughts can often be caused by damaged hinges, rather than an ineffective seal. The hinges cover the window sash, which is the section you open. If they are not regularly oiling them and become stiff, they may develop. This can cause a gap to be created between the sash frame and the sash, which allows cold air into the house. This issue can be resolved by replacing the hinges without damaging window seals.