Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repairs including condensation between panes, to dropping or sagging frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
Try to lubricate the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick and cheap solution.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also damaged, it could cause moisture to leak between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mould and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should fall off quite 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 clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still intact.
The surface of the remaining frame will need to be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It's usually caused by too much humidity in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more frequently, improving ventilation through extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation remains an issue, it's best to contact an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows when required.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer may become degraded over time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if not addressed promptly.
You can use a hairdryer to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it may lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be handled by an expert.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gaps and pipe into hot air to eliminate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll also look for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
As time goes 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. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air in your home, and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be an indication of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows 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 straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the right tools. The specialist will use tools designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain cases professionals could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is often possible to correct this issue. Usually, this means creating a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.
If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will aid in proving your claim.
In certain situations, a window repair specialist may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It is also possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and knowledge necessary to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always advisable to seek out professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure that they will offer a quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear distorted. When window repairs is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are removed from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and leave the glass clean. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog can come back.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice when you're looking for a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are protected. You can be assured that your investment will yield the most effective results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.