Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double glazed windows might require repair such as condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your door or window in case it is hard to open. This is a simple, inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and can create draft. If the dividing muntins are broken it can cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
The first step is to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still intact.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Let it dry before inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It is typically caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still present, you should call a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.
You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. 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 this process, they'll also check for damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear out over time and create drafts 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 in your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.
This is a simple issue to fix, and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The professional will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than attempting to do it by hand. The tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening in 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
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can be easily fixed. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
As soon as you notice any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.
In some cases the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not prevent moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure they will provide a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. window repairs is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option when you're looking for 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 provide the best results. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.