Why You Should Hire a Glazier to Repair Double Glazing Seals
If window seals fail they can result in an increase in energy costs and foggy windows. If you don't address the issue, it will only make it worse, so hiring a professional glazier to fix the broken seals is a wise choice.
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 can break due to various reasons. They can be damaged because of inadequate installation or break through time due to normal wear and tear. Although it is impossible to stop windows from breaking, you can take some precautions to reduce the likelihood of this occurring. Avoiding cleaning your windows with power for instance, will reduce the risk of damage from high pressure water. Make sure that the manufacturer of the windows does not advise using reflective window films since they can damage the seal.
The most common indication of a damaged seal in double-glazed windows is the presence of condensation between the two panes. This happens when the gas sealed in a vacuum like argon and Krypton, that was positioned between the two panes glass has been released. Once this occurs, the window will be no longer able to seal moisture and cold air from entering the home.
Repairing the window seal that is damaged is simple. You can purchase a new wedge gasket seal at any hardware store and it should be installed easily on your uPVC windows. If you are worried that you won't be able to install the new seal properly then spray water on the outside of the window frame to in lubricating the process.
Before you begin installing the new seal, you need to check that there are no obstructions in the grooves of your window frame. These can include melting pieces of uPVC that are usually left behind from previous repair attempts. You can remove these areas using a chisel before starting to make sure that the new rubber seal will fit perfectly in your window frame.
While it is possible to fix a damaged uPVC window seal on your own It is usually better to leave the job to professionals. A professional glazier has the tools and expertise to finish the job quickly and with minimum risk to your uPVC window.
Clean the Surface
Double glazing windows can help reduce noise pollution if they are installed and maintained properly. However windows with seals that is broken can let in air and moisture which can cause numerous issues like condensation. Moisture on the inside of the glass pane is not only unsightly but it can cause mould to grow and damage the frame which is why it is necessary to have a professional repair. Other indicators of a damaged seal include a draft, which can be uncomfortable and expensive to heat or a distortion of the glass that could affect light transmission and impact the view.
The good news is that double glazing windows are fairly simple to fix, particularly when the issue is identified early. While it is possible to complete this work yourself but a professional is advised because they are knowledgeable and have access to the materials that will give long-lasting results.
To begin, you will need to remove any silicone sealant that is already on the surface. This can be done with a sharp knife. After removing any sealant that was previously used the surface needs to be thoroughly cleaned. After cleaning the surface the next step would be to reseal the windows.
Before sealing, remove the bottom pane and flip it upside down so that the face 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 to ensure that there are no water marks left.
Drilling holes in a double-glazed window is usually not a good idea, but when it comes to saving money and preventing the necessity of a professional call out, a small hole in the seal could be used to insert the desiccate container that will absorb any moisture that may have built up between the two glass panes. The hole can be cleaned with ruby alcohol (isopropyl) to prevent the growth of mould.
Double-glazed windows are constructed to be long-lasting but they can and do break down, and many people find themselves in need of professional assistance for repair of double glazing. The most typical signs that the window seals have failed are drafts, condensation, and a discolored look between the glass panes.
Apply for a New Seal
Window seals are important to ensure a secure and energy-efficient glass-to frame connection, regardless of whether you've just moved into your home or have recently installed double-glazed windows. Over time, however the seals could break down due to aging and external influences like weather. It is crucial to replace damaged seals as fast as possible. This will prevent water from getting in between the panes of glass which could cause condensation, a reduction in energy efficiency, and even water damage to your property.
double glazing repair near me is best to pick a day with low rainfall during the time you're doing this work. You will be working with the window open and don't need lots of rainwater to seep into your home. This could cause damage to the new seals. In addition, if you have to use power tools to remove the old window seals make sure to wear eye protection as it is easy to collect dust or other debris into your eyes.
After you've removed the old seal, it's crucial to clean the surface before applying a new seal. Using a utility knife or putty knife, clean all residuals from the area and then apply a new coating of silicone caulking in order to reseal the gap. Add a globule on the frame's exterior as well. This will help to create an airtight seal and a waterproof seal around the glass.
Paint the exterior of your window frames to protect them against the elements. Especially in hot weather, it's not uncommon for the seals to develop cracks or damp spots, so this is an extra step to ensure the quality of your window.
Although you can reseal your windows on your own but if the issue is serious, it's recommended you contact a professional window company to carry out the work on your behalf. This way, you can be assured that the new seals will be put in place properly to ensure that your windows are secure and energy efficient.
Allow the Seal to Cure
Double glazed windows are a great choice for homeowners since they shield against the elements and also keep heat generated by your heating systems inside. They also stop sunlight from getting out. It can only do so by ensuring that the window seal is properly installed. A broken window seal can result in condensation and mist between the glass panes, energy loss as well as draughts, and even security issues. To avoid damaging your window and your home, it is crucial to repair a damaged seal as soon as possible.
You can test your window seal by smelling for draughts or cold around the corners of the frame. If you can feel it, the gasket has sunk and is no longer creating the seal. Also, you can check for misting or condensation between the glass panes in the double-glazed windows you have. Both of these problems are caused by a breach in the double glazed window seal that allows moisture to enter the window and weakens its insulation properties.
There are kits to reseal the double glazing seals available if you are a DIY enthusiast. They typically involve drilling a small hole through the window, then cleaning the inside using the help of a magnetic tool, then inserting drying pellets that will eventually disappear and plugging the hole using 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 on your own or enlisted the help of a professional service it is essential that you allow the new seal to cure prior to using. It could take up to a couple of days to several weeks for the sealant to fully cure, so it is recommended to wait until the time is right to open the window once again. A window that has been resealed must be handled with care and attention, so it's worth laying an old duvet or towel down on your work surface to protect it from scratches and stains.