Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you begin, lubricate the cutter with a light oil. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's facets and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present, you should call an expert who can identify the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that 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 could cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.
You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be only used as the last option. If the condensation is left for a long time you may be experiencing mould or dampness within your home, which must be addressed by a professional.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
Rubber seals can wear out over time and cause a draft between your two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and the window repairs colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
This is a simple issue to solve, and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. The tools also have a pointed tip which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.
In some cases professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it can often be solved. This usually involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should inform 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, as it will be easier to prove that you actually complained.
A window repair professional might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and form the seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is best to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. All of our tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with a new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing a special vacuum pump in the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clean. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog can return.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and is a great option in the event you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It's best to select a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.