Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Many of these issues can be resolved.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is usually a low-cost solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.
The first step is to take out any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should grease the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed quite quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be reused if they're in good condition.
The remaining frame will need to be prepared for reflazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It's usually caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to call in an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.
A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a last resort. If the condensation has left for a long time, you might be facing mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to eliminate any moisture. During this process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear down over time and create a draft between your two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets, and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of sealed blown seals. 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, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.
window repairs is a simple issue to repair and windows can be swiftly repaired by professionals using the right tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than doing it manually. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small opening in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements and will give you an effective protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be solved. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
You should contact the company from whom you purchased your windows and let them know of any issues immediately you discover them. You should inform the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your message. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows to eliminate moisture and make an airtight seal. This is only temporary and won't stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to be able to do it. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long run. It is best to seek help from a professional when you aren't sure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double glazing repair. All of our traders are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, such as age, weather conditions and power washing. It's important to know what the symptoms are and how to fix them.
If a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. If the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, further diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog could return.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the number of repairs.