Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sliding. Thankfully, most 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 a quick and inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause moisture to escape between the glass panes, leading to condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.
The first step is to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should fall off quite quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still in good shape.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow reflazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face particularly in wintertime. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to contact a professional to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when needed.
It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will break down in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be used only as the last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to fall apart and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will reduce your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced quickly by specialists who have all the right tools and know how to do it properly. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals into position and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small opening in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements, and will provide a reliable protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical issue that many people face. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that it is often solved. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.
You should contact the company from whom you bought your windows and let them know of any issues immediately you notice them. You should inform the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your claim.
In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Remember that you should only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. It is best to seek professional help 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 screened, so you can be sure they will provide a quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to fix them.
When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear to be distorted. When window repairs fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging services, which involve placing a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clean. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It is best to choose an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems that you might encounter are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the best results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.