Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows could need repairs, from condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick and inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should come off relatively quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be re-used if they're still in good condition.
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 high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. This is usually caused by high moisture levels within your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and should only be only used as a last resort. If the condensation has been left for a long time, you could be looking at dampness or even mould within your home, which should be addressed by a professional.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the gap to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air inside your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
In certain cases professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding an adsorbent material or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It could be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. It is possible to fix this problem. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from happening.
If you discover any problems, you should 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. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will help you prove your claim.
A window repair expert might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows to remove moisture and form an airtight seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and will not stop the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself which will ensure that it is watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to make the attempt. Using window repairs near me or another kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by various elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and how to repair them.
When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, further decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this is costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clean. This method isn't 100% reliable, and it does not replace inert gasses, which means that the fog could be re-created.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a good option if you're looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you might face are covered. This means you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.