Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double glazed windows might need repairs including condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick, inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and could cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to remove any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off relatively quickly.
After the glass has been 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 hold the pane in place. If there's any indication 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 need to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they must be reinstalled too. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. It's usually 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 and frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to know that condensation on a double-glazed window could be a sign of a failing seal. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.
Hairdryers can be used to eliminate excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should only be used as a last option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also look for any damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
Rubber seals can get worn out over time and create drafts between your 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 inside your home and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it properly. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double-glazed windows 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. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good thing is that this can often be solved. This usually involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.
Contact the company from which you purchased your windows and tell them of any issues as soon as you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, since it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In some cases the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always better to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double repair of your glazing. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common problem that can make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clear. This method is not foolproof and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog can return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you might face are covered. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the most value from your investment. Alternatively, window repair near me can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.