Why You Should Hire a Glazier to Repair Double Glazing Seals
When window seals fail, they could result in higher energy bills and foggy glass. If you don't address the issue, it will only make it worse and hiring an expert glazier to fix the damaged seals is a smart move.
The window seals are essential to the insulation offered by double glazing. They're easy-to-repair and could save you money in the end.
Remove the Old Seal
Window seals break due to a variety of reasons. They can be damaged due to poor installation or broken over the years from normal wear and wear and tear. While it is impossible to prevent a window from breaking however, you can take precautions to reduce the likelihood of this occurring. Avoiding power washing your windows for instance, can lower the chance of damage from high water pressure. You should also check that the window manufacturer does not recommend the use of reflective window films on their windows because they could damage the window seal.
In the case of double-glazed windows, the most frequent indication that the seal has broken is the appearance of condensation between the two panes of glass. This happens when the gas that acts as an insulator such as argon or krypton that was sealed by vacuum between the two glass panes of the window has escaped. If this happens, the window is no longer capable of keeping cold and moisture out of your home.
Repairing the window seal that is damaged is simple. You can buy a new wedge gasket seal at any hardware store and it will be able to be installed inside your uPVC windows. If you're worried that you won’t be able install the new seal properly spray water on the frame of the window to help lubricate it.
It is important to check the grooves of your window frame prior to installing the new seal. This could include melting pieces of uPVC that are often left behind from previous repair attempts. You can use a chisel chip away these areas before you start the repair. This will ensure that the new rubber seal is a perfect fit into your window frame.
While it is possible to fix a damaged uPVC window seal on your own It is usually best to leave this task to experts. A professional glazier has the tools and skills to complete this task quickly and with minimum risk to your uPVC window.
Clean the Surface
Double glazing windows can reduce noise pollution when they are installed and maintained in a proper manner. A damaged window seal could let moisture and air be able to enter, which could cause a variety of problems such as condensation. Moisture on the inside of a glass pane is not only unsightly but it can cause mould to develop and damage the frame, making it necessary for professional repair. Other signs of a damaged sealing include a draft that can be uncomfortable and costly to heat or glass distortion that could affect light transmission and impact on the view.
double glazing window repairs glazing windows can be repaired easily especially if you identify the issue early. While it's possible to do the job yourself, a professional is usually recommended as they are knowledgeable and have access to high-quality products that will provide long-lasting results.
To begin the process, it's important to remove any silicone sealant that is in use that is removed by carefully scraping off the old material with a sharp blade. After removing any sealant that was previously used, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned. After cleaning the surface the next step should be to reseal the windows.
Before sealing, remove the bottom pane and turn it upside down so that the surface of the glass that was originally on the inside of the sealed unit is facing upwards. Thoroughly clean this surface with an uncluttered cloth, and then dry it so that there aren't any water marks.
Drilling holes in windows with double glazing is generally not a good idea but when it comes to saving money and avoiding the necessity of a professional call out, a small hole in the seal can be used to insert an insulating packet that will absorb any moisture that might have accumulated between the two glass panes. The hole can be rinsed with ruby alcohol (isopropyl) to prevent the growth of mould.
Double-glazed windows are built to last, but they can fail at times. A lot of people require repairs to double glazing. Most commonly windows fail to seal when there is condensation between the glass panes, or in the event of drafts.
Apply a New Seal
Window seals are essential to ensure a secure and energy-efficient glass-to-frame connection, no matter if you've recently moved into your new home or recently installed double-glazed windows. Over time, seals could be damaged due to weather and other external factors. It is crucial to replace damaged seals as fast as you can. This will stop moisture from entering the space between the glass panes which could cause condensation, a reduction in energy efficiency and even water damage to your property.
It is best to pick a day when there is little rain to complete this task. You'll be working with the window open, and you don't require a lot of rainwater to seep into your home. This could cause damage to the new seals. Wear eye protection if you're using power tools to take off old window seals. It's easy to get dust or debris in your eyes.
Once you've removed the old seal, it's crucial to clean the surface prior applying a new seal. Clear the area with a putty or utility knife and apply a fresh coating of silicone caulking. Add a globule on the frame's exterior as well. This will help create an airtight seal as well as a waterproof seal around the glass.
Paint the exterior of your window frames to protect them from the elements. This is a great method to protect the integrity of the window, particularly in hot weather.
While you can reseal your windows yourself but if the issue is severe, it's recommended you contact an experienced window company to carry out the work on your behalf. You can be assured that the new seals are properly installed, making sure your windows remain energy efficient and secure.
Let the Seal heal
Double glazed windows are an excellent choice for homeowners since they shield against the elements and keep the heat generated by heating systems inside. They also stop sunlight from getting out. However, it will only achieve this if it is sealed properly. A broken seal can cause condensation and mist to form between the glass panes. It can also lead to energy loss, draughts, and even security concerns. To ensure that your window isn't damaged and home, it is essential to repair a damaged seal immediately.
You can test your window seal by smelling for draughts or cold around the frame's corners. If you can feel this the gasket of your window is flattened and no longer making an airtight seal. You can also check for misting or condensation between the glass panes in your double-glazed windows. Both of these issues result from a crack in the seal of the double glazed window, which lets moisture into the window and weakens its insulation capabilities.
There are kits to reseal the double glazing seals available in case you are a DIY enthusiast. They typically require drilling a small hole into the window, then cleaning the inside with the help of a magnetic tool, then inserting drying pellets which eventually disappear and plugging the hole with clear cement. 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.
Whether you have tried to repair your window seals yourself or have hired a professional service to do the work, it is imperative to allow the new seal to cure prior to making use of it. It can take a few days or even a few weeks to cure the sealant so you should wait until the time is right to open the window. A window that's been sealed will need to be treated with care and attention, so it's worth laying an old towel or duvet on the work surface to protect it from stains and scratches.