Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may require repairs such as condensation between panes, to drop or sagged frames. Fortunately, the majority of problems can be addressed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, affordable solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create a draft. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also broken, water can get in between them and cause condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and the glass should break off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be used again if they're intact.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound sold in a can. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. This is usually caused by high levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to call in a professional to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows as necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing 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 then develop mold if it is not addressed immediately.
For a quick fix to condensation, try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should only be used only as a last option. If the condensation has left for too long, you might be facing dampness or even mould within your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During this process, they'll also check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be fixed by replacing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal once again. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit is composed of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.
This is a simple issue to fix, and windows can be easily repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The professional will employ tools designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than trying to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements, and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can often be repaired. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
Contact the company from which website you purchased your windows and inform them of any problems as soon as you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your message. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you actually complained.
In certain situations, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix that will not stop moisture from returning. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit itself, to ensure that it is watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and know-how required to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and how to fix them.
When a window seal fails it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could be re-applied.
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 option and can be a great choice if you are looking for a long-term solution. However, it's best to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.