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. Leaving the problem unattended can only cause it to get worse and hiring a professional glazier to fix the broken seals is a smart move.
Window seals play a crucial role in the insulative benefit that double glazing provides. They're also easy to repair and can save you money in the long run.
Remove the Old Seal
Window seals break due to various reasons. They may be damaged because of improper installation or become broken over the years from normal wear and wear and tear. While it is impossible to stop a window from breaking, you can take some precautions to reduce the likelihood of this happening. Avoiding power washing your windows for instance, can reduce the risk of damage from high pressure water. You should also check that the window manufacturer doesn't recommend the use of reflective window films on their windows as they can cause damage to 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 inert gas that is sealed by vacuum like argon and Krypton, that was positioned between the two panes glass has disappeared. Once this happens, the window is not able to keep cold air and moisture out of the home.
Repairing the window seal that is faulty is easy. You can purchase a replacement wedge gasket seal from any hardware store, and it can be easily installed in your uPVC windows. If you're concerned that you'll be unable to install the new seal properly, spray water on the window's frame to aid in lubricating it.
It is essential to examine the grooves on your window frame before installing the new seal. This can include melting uPVC pieces that are usually leftover from previous repairs. You can use a chisel or a hammer to remove these areas prior to you start the repair. This will ensure that your new seal is properly fitted into your window frame.
While it is possible to fix a broken uPVC window seal on your own, it's often better to leave the job to experts. A professional glazier will possess the skills and tools necessary to complete this job quickly and efficiently, with minimal risk of damage to your uPVC windows.
Clean the Surface
Double glazing windows can reduce noise pollution when they are installed and maintained correctly. However windows with seals that is damaged can let in air and moisture which can cause numerous issues, such as condensation. Moisture inside the glass pane is not only unattractive, but it can cause mould to develop and damage the frame, which is why it is necessary to have a professional repair. Other signs of a failed seal include a draft which can be uncomfortable and expensive to heat or cause distortion in the glass, which could cause light transmission to be affected and alter the view.
Double glazing windows can be easily repaired especially if you identify the issue early. While it is possible to do this yourself, a professional will be recommended as they are knowledgeable and have access to materials that can deliver long-lasting results.
To begin, you'll need to get rid of any silicone sealant already on the surface. This can be done with a sharp knife. After removing any old sealant, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned. After cleaning the surface, the next step would be to reseal the windows.
Before re-sealing, take the bottom pane and turn it upside down so that the surface of the glass that was on the inside of the sealed unit is facing upwards. The surface should be thoroughly cleaned with a clean, dry cloth.
Drilling holes in windows that are double-glazed is generally a bad idea but when it's about saving money and preventing the need for a call from a professional out, a tiny hole in the seal could be used to put in the desiccate container that will absorb any moisture that might have accumulated between the two glass panes. The hole can be cleaned using ruby alcohol to stop the growth of mould.
Double-glazed windows are built to last, however they can fail at times. Many people need 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, whether you have recently moved into your new home or have recently installed double-glazed windows. Over time, seals could be damaged by weather and other external factors. If the seals have been damaged, you must make sure that you replace them as soon as you can. This will prevent moisture from entering between the glass panes which could cause condensation, energy loss and even damage to your home.
You should pick a time when there is little rain to accomplish this task. You'll be working with the window open and you don't need a lot of rainwater to enter your home. This could damage the new seals. In addition, if you have to employ power tools to take off the old window seals, be sure to wear eye protection as it is easy to catch dust or other 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 utility knife or putty and apply a fresh coat of silicone caulking. Add a globule to the frame's exterior as well. This will help create an airtight seal and a waterproof seal around the glass.
Paint the outside of the frames of your windows to shield them from the elements. This is a great way to ensure the integrity of the window, especially in hot weather.
Although you can reseal your windows yourself however, if the issue is serious it's recommended that you contact an experienced window company to complete the work on your behalf. You can be assured that the new seals are properly installed, making sure your windows are energy efficient and safe.
Let the Seal heal
Double-glazed windows are an excellent choice for homeowners due to their ability to protect against the weather and keep heat generated by your heating systems in. They also block sunlight from leaving. Ascot double glazing repair can only do so if the window seal is properly installed. A broken window seal can lead to mist and condensation between the glass panes, loss of energy as well as draughts, and even security issues. It is crucial to fix a damaged seal as soon as possible to avoid damage to the window and to your home.
One of the simplest methods to determine if the window seal has failed is to feel for draughts and cold air coming into the corners of the frame. If you can feel this the gasket of your window has been weakened and is no longer making an airtight seal. You may also look for condensation or misting between the glass panes in the double-glazed windows you have. Both of these problems result from a crack in the double glazed window seal which allows moisture into the area and reduces its insulation properties.
There are kits for resealing the double glazing seals if you are a DIY-er. These usually require drilling a small hole into the window, cleaning the inside using a magnetic tool, 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.
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 dry before using. It could take some days or some weeks to cure the sealant, therefore you should wait until then to open the window. A window that has been resealed will need to be treated with care and attention and it's a good idea to lay an old duvet or towel down on your work surface to protect it from scratches and stains.