Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could require repair, from condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick, affordable fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This makes your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. Before you start, lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good shape.
The remaining frame must be prepared to allow re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the wintertime. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually grow mold if not addressed immediately.
Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a final resort. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This should be handled by an expert.
For a more long-term solution you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You'll reduce your energy bill.
Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.
This is a straightforward issue to solve and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than trying to do it manually. These tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows by drilling a small gap into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. It is possible to fix this problem. Normally, this involves creating an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
If you spot any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you actually complained.
A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create an airtight seal. However, this is generally only temporary and will not prevent the moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. All of our traders are thoroughly check here vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and how to fix them.
When a window seal fails it allows moisture to seep in between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't 100% reliable and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog can return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and is a great option in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be assured that your investment will produce the most effective results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.