Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick and inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and can create draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less energy-efficient. A damaged window should be repaired by a professional to ensure 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 protective drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the pieces. They should fall off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still intact.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge or conventional compound that is sold in a can. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Finally, install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more regularly, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to call in a professional to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as needed.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows could be a sign of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to become cloudy and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed quickly.
For a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final option. If the condensation has been left for too long, you might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.
As a long-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to eliminate any moisture. During the process, they will also inspect for any damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform an air draughtproofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your room via the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes which cannot be removed.
This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the right tools. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing the seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is usually possible to correct this issue. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
If you spot any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if 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 in order to eliminate moisture and create the seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double glazing repair. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as 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 important to know what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is lost from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be certain that your investment will produce the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.