Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and can create a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the broken window and then cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before you start, lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should be removed fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows face, especially in the wintertime. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows as necessary.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This can cause the window to become cloudy and eventually develop mold if it is not addressed quickly.
A hairdryer can be used to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last alternative. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be handled by an expert.
As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they will also look for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew and then perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air outside, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of sealed blown seals. 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, like argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than trying to do it manually. These tools have a pointed tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small gap into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good news is get more info that it can be easily fixed. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.
You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues immediately you notice them. Be sure to do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will help later on should any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and form an airtight seal. However, this is typically only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long term. It is recommended to seek help from a professional in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and how to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common issue that can make the window appear distorted. When the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a the new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will help to prolong the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.