Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair including condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, grease the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if still intact.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the house, with warm air meeting cold glass, which then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows as required.
It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a failing seal. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal can be damaged in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed promptly.
A hairdryer can be used to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just a short-term solution and should only be only used as the last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This should be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also look for any signs of damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and then perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear down in time and create drafts between your two panes. It is an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will allow warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist may be a sign of blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small gap in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is less read more expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with an effective draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems when you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will help you prove your case.
In some instances an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. It is best to seek out professional assistance if you are unsure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.
When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes and create fog. It's a frequent issue and can cause the window to appear visually altered. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog may be re-applied.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option when you're looking for the long-term solution. It's best to select an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the number of repairs.