Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.
Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is a simple, affordable solution.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause water to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off quite quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape off any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be re-used if they're still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as glazier's compounds that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound that is sold in a can. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the house as warm air meets cold glass, which forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur, you should call an expert who will be able to pinpoint the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may 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.
As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should only be used as a last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damages, mildew or mould growth and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear down over time and create a draft between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You can reduce your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have 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 it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into place and is generally faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain cases professionals may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame, or even a broken seal. The good news is that it is often solved. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.
If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your complaint.
A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and form a seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and won't stop the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is always best to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair for your window. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are secured by window seals or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog could return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. window repair near me is the most cost-effective solution and is a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be certain that your investment will yield the most effective results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.