Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might need repairs including condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less energy efficient. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth under the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you begin, lubricate the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall away quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be used again if they're in good condition.
The remaining frame will need to be prepared for re-glazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, these should be reinstalled too. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If window repair near me remains an issue, it's crucial to call in an expert to determine the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as required.
It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.
As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation has been left for a long time, you might be facing mould or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clear the gap and pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. In the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
This is a simple problem to fix and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than trying to do it by hand. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening 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 air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it can be easily solved. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from happening.
As soon as you notice any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure you do this in writing and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. Writing everything down will help later on should any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you actually complained.
A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and create a seal. However, this is generally only temporary and will not prevent the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more damage in the long in the long run. It is always best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can locate 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 thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide a high-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, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass free of fog. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog could be re-applied.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care instructions given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the number of repairs.