Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs, from condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be solved.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is a quick and affordable fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This makes your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come 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 clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a common problem that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in a professional to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may be damaged over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if not addressed quickly.
As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has left for a long time it may be experiencing mold or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.
As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear down over time and create drafts between your two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can reduce your energy bill.
Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker 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 may be able'reseal your windows' by drilling a small gap in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to correct this issue. Typically, this is done by creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.
If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notice. If there are any disagreements, having everything in writing will aid in proving your case.
A window repair professional could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and make a seal. However, this is typically only temporary and will not prevent the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by typing your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been verified and checked for accuracy which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to read more break, get more info such as the weather, age, and power washing, therefore more info it's crucial to be aware of what the signs are and how to fix them.
When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue more info that can also make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, further reducing its insulating properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with a new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and could be a good option if you're seeking the long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means you can be sure that you'll click here get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.