How to Deal with a Blown Double-Glazed Window – Repair & Cost Guide
A blown double-glazed window happens when the seal fails, letting moisture in and causing condensation. This affects both visibility and insulation. In this guide, you’ll learn how to spot a blown window, understand why it happens, and decide between repair or replacement options.
Identifying Blown Double-Glazed Windows
Early detection of issues with double glazed windows can save you unnecessary complications. A telltale symptom of blown double glazing is the presence of condensation on the internal side or between the panes, indicative of a compromised seal that permits moisture ingress and gives a foggy look to the glass.
The formation of water droplets sandwiched within the layers confirms that you have a blown double-glazed window.
An unexpected hike in your heating expenditures could point towards defective double glazing. When such windows fail, they lose their ability to retain warm air inside and block cold air from infiltrating, diminishing energy efficiency and overburdening your heating system—which reflects as increased costs for energy consumption.
It’s essential to act swiftly when these signs manifest to prevent more drastic consequences like structural impairments or health hazards stemming from elevated humidity levels indoors. Timely intervention after noticing early indications can thwart additional deterioration.
Causes of Blown Double Glazing
Understanding the reasons behind blown double glazing is essential for prevention. A prevalent issue is seal failure. If the seal of a double glazed unit is compromised, moisture seeps into the gap between the glass panes, causing condensation and fogging within the window. This problem diminishes its insulating abilities, leading to a loss in energy efficiency.
The age factor also significantly impacts these windows’ integrity. Particularly those that have been in service for 15 to 20 years or more are at higher risk of experiencing seal deterioration due to material degradation over time and less effective sealing capabilities.
Extreme weather events like storms can inflict damage on these seals. Inadequate installation exacerbates such issues by allowing water ingress into the unit rather than facilitating proper drainage away from it.
To ensure longevity and preserve their performance levels, regular upkeep along with prompt inspections of your double-glazed windows should be prioritised. Early detection and resolution of any arising concerns help sustain their lifespan while keeping energy efficiency intact.
Effects of Blown Double Glazing on Your Home
The occurrence of blown double glazing can have several adverse effects on your residence. One noticeable consequence is the increase in energy expenditures due to compromised insulation, which results in greater heat loss and necessitates additional effort from your heating system. This situation escalates your energy costs while diminishing the overall energy efficiency of your home.
From an aesthetic standpoint, misted windows caused by blown double glazing diminish the visual charm of a property and could potentially reduce its market value.
Blown double glazed windows may be perceived as indicators of neglected upkeep by potential buyers, thus impacting their interest negatively. The replacement of these windows can improve the appearance and appeal to those considering purchasing a property.
Blown double-glazed units pose risks beyond mere cosmetic issues. They can initiate structural problems within a building’s framework. Failed seals permitting moisture ingress create conditions conducive to dampness that carry health hazards such as mould proliferation.
Prolonged exposure to this moisture weakens structural integrity over time and might necessitate costly repairs down the line for remediation purposes.
Repairing Blown Double Glazed Windows
Repairing blown double-glazed windows is essential for maintaining your home’s energy efficiency and value. You can hire professional window repair services or opt to fix blown double glazing with DIY performing double glazing repairs.
Each method has its benefits and considerations, which we’ll explore in detail.
Professional Window Repair Services
Employing skilled experts guarantees a thorough examination and precise identification of the problem. These specialists employ sophisticated equipment and methods to evaluate the damage and decide on the most appropriate repair strategy, greatly diminishing the chances of personal harm or additional property damage.
Experts are frequently able to fix misted double glazed windows without the need for complete replacement, which can be more economical depending on how severe the damage is. Utilising professional services also eliminates risks associated with do-it-yourself attempts at repair that could lead to injuries.
Repairs carried out by professionals not only prolong the life of your double glazed windows, but also reinstate their thermal insulation capabilities. This improves both energy efficiency in your home as well as its visual attractiveness.
DIY Repair Methods
For the do-it-yourself enthusiasts, tackling repair projects hands-on can be appealing. A popular strategy for addressing misted windows is to use a kit designed specifically for this purpose.
It requires drilling a fine hole into the double-glazing unit, thoroughly cleansing between the panes, and then placing desiccant pellets to remove any trapped moisture. This procedure demands meticulous attention and careful execution.
As an interim measure, one might choose to place moisture-absorbing materials between the glass panes, which can resolve minor issues with blown double glazing often within 24 hours by clearing up fogged windows. Nevertheless, DIY approaches may not adequately rectify more serious instances of blown double.
Choosing to undertake repairs oneself may initially seem cost-saving but comes intertwined with potential hazards. Incorrect handling during repairs could exacerbate damages or pose risks of personal injury. Consider all advantages and disadvantages before committing to fixing your own blown double glazed units through DIY methods.
Replacing Blown Double Glazed Units
In certain situations, merely repairing blown double-glazed windows may not be adequate, leading to the necessity for replacement. Indications of this need include severe misting or apparent damage to either the window frame or its sealant. Installing new energy-efficient glass can substantially boost your home’s thermal efficiency.
Should the window frame remain intact and unharmed, opting only to replace the compromised double glazed unit instead of swapping out the entire window assembly is typically a more economical and less invasive solution. Conversely, should there also be damage present on the frame itself, it might warrant proceeding with a complete overhaul of the whole window structure.
Opting for fresh replacement double-glazed units reinstates your windows’ ability to insulate effectively while simultaneously improving your residence’s aesthetic appeal.
It presents as an investment that pays off both immediately and in future years when considering energy efficient enhancements via full window replacements.
Costs Associated with Blown Double Glazing
The costs associated with blown double glazing vary widely. Repairing a blown double glazed window typically costs between £50 and £200 per window, a cost-effective solution if the damage is minor. However, replacing a new double-glazed unit ranges from £50 to £150.
Increased energy bills from blown double glazing make replacement a cost-effective long-term solution. Restoring the windows’ insulating properties reduces heating costs and improves energy efficiency. Factors influencing replacement costs include unit size, glass type, frame type, and installation costs.
Consider both immediate repair or replacement costs and long-term savings on energy bills when replacing blown double glazing.
Preventing Blown Double Glazing
Ensuring that double-glazed windows are not blown is a cost-effective and time-saving measure. By frequently examining the window seals for deterioration, early detection of any damage can occur. Quick intervention to fix leaks helps to curtail the accumulation of moisture, which has detrimental effects on windows.
Maintaining proper ventilation is key in safeguarding against moisture buildup within double glazed units, which significantly lessens the likelihood of experiencing blown glazing. It’s also advisable to steer clear of abrasive cleaners that could harm the seals around these units.
Investing in premium double glazed products and taking initiative to replace aging windows can greatly diminish potential complications down the road. Such preventative actions bolster both longevity and performance efficiency in your double-glazed installations.
Warranties and Guarantees for Double Glazing
When purchasing double-glazed windows, warranties and guarantees serve to reassure buyers about their investment. A guarantee for double glazing extends over a minimum period of 10 years. If the units are supplied only, there is typically a provision for a 5-year guarantee.
It’s compulsory to have insurance-backed guarantees with installations performed under competent person schemes. This type of coverage safeguards your interests in case the installing company ceases operations. This provides customers with certainty that their financial commitment is secure.
The presence of warranties and guarantees on double-glazed products underscores the expected durability and quality of the installation, instilling trust in consumers regarding their acquisition while offering them tranquillity well into the future.
Repair Blown Double-Glazing – Our Thoughts
Blown double-glazed windows are more than just an inconvenience; they can impact your home’s energy efficiency, aesthetics, and value.
By identifying the signs early, understanding the causes, and knowing how to repair or replace the units, you can mitigate these effects and maintain your home’s integrity.
Whether you choose professional repair services or DIY methods, addressing blown double glazing promptly is important. Consider the costs and benefits of each approach, and don’t forget the importance of preventive measures and warranties. Keep your home energy efficient and beautiful with well-maintained double-glazed windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my double-glazed windows are blown?
You can tell if your double-glazed windows are blown by checking for condensation between the panes, misty appearances, and an increase in energy bills.
If you notice these signs, it may be time to consider repairs or replacements.
What causes double-glazed windows to blow?
Double-glazed windows often blow due to seal failure, poor installation, or age-related wear and tear.
Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the effectiveness of your windows.
Can blown double-glazed windows be repaired?
Blown double-glazed windows can indeed be repaired, either by professionals or through DIY methods, depending on the severity of the problem.
It’s essential to assess the damage to determine the best course of action.
How much does it cost to repair or replace blown double-glazed windows?
Repairing blown double-glazed windows typically costs between £50 and £200 per window, whereas replacing them can range from £50 to £150 per unit.
Consider these costs when deciding on the best option for your situation.
How can I prevent my double-glazed windows from blowing?
To prevent your double-glazed windows from blowing, regularly inspect and maintain the seals, address any leaks in your home promptly, ensure proper ventilation, and avoid using harsh cleaning agents.
Taking these steps will help maintain the integrity of your windows.
