Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a low-cost, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins also broken it can cause water to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you will need to get rid of any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the pieces. window repairs should be removed fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points can be reused if still in good condition.
The remaining frame must be prepared to allow re-glazing. Utilizing 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 a cartridge. Dry it out before installing the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are on the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. It is typically caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses to water droplets. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer can be damaged in time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if it is not addressed immediately.
As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a last option. If the condensation is left for too long it could be looking at mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are completely operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear out in time and create drafts between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You'll save money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist could be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by experts who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double-glazed windows and will still provide you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. It can be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it is often repaired. Normally, this involves making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.
You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows and inform them of any issues when you discover them. Make sure to put this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your notice. If there are any disputes being resolved, writing everything down will aid in proving your case.
A window repair specialist may drill the gap between your windows to remove moisture and make a seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not prevent moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt 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 run. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are sure they will provide a quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can also cause the window to look visually altered. When the seal is damaged, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A broken window seal can be repaired by replacing it with an entirely new one by an experienced glazier. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture and make the glass clear. This method isn't 100% reliable and does not replace the inert gasses, which means that the fog could return.
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 choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is best to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid the problem by selecting the best quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the amount of repairs.