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. If you don't address the issue, it will only make it worse and hiring a professional glazier to repair the damaged seals is a smart choice.
The window seals are essential to the insulation offered by double glazing. Fortunately, they're easy to fix and could save you money in the long run.
Remove the Old Seal
The seals can break for various reasons. They may be damaged because of inadequate installation or break through time due to normal wear and tear. Although it is impossible to prevent a window seal from breaking, taking some precautions can help ensure that the problem is less likely to occur. Avoiding cleaning your windows with power for instance, will reduce the risk of damage caused by high water pressure. Check that the manufacturer of the windows does not recommend using reflective window films since they can cause damage to the seal.
The most frequent sign of a cracked seal in double-glazed windows is the presence of condensation between the two panes. This happens when the insulating inert gas such as argon or krypton that was vacuum sealed between the two glass panes of the window has escaped. When this happens, the window is no longer able to seal cold air and moisture out of the house.
Repairing a window seal that is damaged is simple. You can purchase a new wedge gasket seal from any hardware store, and it can be installed easily on your uPVC windows. If you are worried that you'll be unable to install the seal properly, spray water on the frame of the window to help lubricate it.
Before you begin installing the new seal, it's important to check that there are no obstructions in the grooves of your window frame. This could include melting uPVC pieces that are typically leftover from previous repairs. You can chip away these areas with the chisel prior to beginning to make sure that the new seal will fit perfectly in your window frame.
While it is possible to repair damaged uPVC window seal on your own however, it is better to leave the job to experts. A professional glazier is equipped with the tools and expertise to finish the job quickly and with the least amount of risk to your uPVC window.
Clean the Surface
When double glazing windows are properly fitted and maintained, they provide excellent insulation and can cut down on noise pollution. However windows with seals that is broken can let in moisture and air which can cause various issues like condensation. Moisture on the inside of the glass pane isn't only unattractive, but it can cause mould to grow and cause damage to the frame, making it necessary for professional repair. Other signs of a damaged sealing include a draft that could be uncomfortable and expensive to heat, or glass distortion which can affect the light transmission and impact on the view.
The good thing is that double glazed windows are relatively simple to fix, particularly if the issue is caught early. While it's possible to do the job yourself, a professional is typically recommended as they are knowledgeable and have access to high-quality materials that can give long-lasting results.
To begin, you'll need to remove any silicone sealant already in place. This can be accomplished using a sharp knife. After removing any old sealant the surface should be thoroughly cleaned. After cleaning the surface the next step would be to seal the windows.
Before sealing again, remove the bottom pane, and turn it upside down so that the surface of the glass originally on the inside of the sealed unit is facing upwards. Thoroughly clean this surface with a dry cloth and dry it so that there are no water marks left.
Drilling holes into windows with double glazing is not an ideal option. However, to save money and avoid the need for an emergency call-out, you can use a small hole to insert an desiccate bag which will absorb any moisture between the two glass panes. The hole could then be rinsed with ruby alcohol (isopropyl) to stop the growth of mould.
Double-glazed windows are made to last, but they can break down. Many people require repairs to their double glazing. The most frequent signs that the window seals are failing is condensation, drafts and a discolored look between the glass panes.
Apply for a New Seal
If you've recently moved into a home or have just had your double-glazed windows installed window seals play an crucial role in keeping an airtight and energy efficient glass-to-frame connection. In time, the seals can be damaged due to aging and external factors such as weather. If the seals are damaged, it's important to take steps to reseal them as soon as you can. This will stop moisture from getting into the space between the glass panes which could cause condensation, a decrease in energy efficiency, and even water damage to your property.
You should pick a time that is not soaked with rain to complete this task. It's going to be a time when you have the window open and you don't need lots of rainwater to seep into your home. This could damage the new seals. Also, if you're going to employ power tools to take off the old window seals, ensure that you wear eye protection since it's easy to get dust or other debris into your eyes.
It's important to thoroughly clean the surface after removal of the old seal prior to applying the new one. Clean the area with the help of a knife or putty and apply a fresh coat of silicone caulking. Add a globule on the frame's exterior as well. This will help to create an airtight seal and waterproof seal around the glass.
Paint the exterior of the frames of your windows to shield them against the elements. This is a great way to protect the integrity of your window, especially in hot weather.
While you can reseal your own windows but if the issue is serious, it's recommended you contact an expert window company to complete the work on your behalf. You can be sure that the new seals are installed correctly, ensuring your windows are energy efficient and safe.
Allow window repairs Grays to Cure
Double glazed windows are a fantastic option for homeowners because they protect against the weather and keep the heat generated by heating systems inside. They also prevent sunlight from getting out. It is only able to do this if the window seal is correctly installed. A damaged seal could cause mist and condensation to form between the glass panes. It could cause energy loss, draughts and even security issues. It is therefore important to address a broken seal as quickly as you can in order to avoid damage to the window and to your home.
One of the easiest methods to determine if the window seal has failed is to feel for draughts or cold coming in around the frame's corners. If you feel it, the gasket is sagging and is no longer forming a seal. Another method to determine this is to look for signs of misting and condensation between the glass panes of your double-glazed windows. Both of these issues result from leaks in the double-glazed window seal. This allows moisture to enter that section, compromising its insulation properties.
There are kits to reseal the double glazing seals available in case you are a DIY enthusiast. These kits usually require drilling a tiny hole into the window, and then cleaning it using a magnet. They then insert drying pellets which eventually disappear, and fill 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 essential to allow the new seal to cure prior to making use of it. It can take up to a couple of days to several weeks for the sealant to fully cure, so it's best to wait until it is to open the window once more. A window that's been sealed must be handled with care and care, so it's worth laying an old duvet or towel down on your work surface to protect it from stains and scratches.