Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or frames that are sagging. Many of these issues are fixable.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a simple, cheap solution.
Broken Panes
When a window is broken, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, moisture can get in between them and cause condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to hire a professional repair the damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces and they should fall off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows may experience, especially in the wintertime. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass. This then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if required.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
You can use a hairdryer to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is only temporary solution and should be used as a last resort. If the condensation is allowed to sit for too long you may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During this process, they'll also look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may wear out over time and create drafts between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You can reduce your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which is not able to be removed.
This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. These tools feature a pointed tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can often be repaired. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. window repair near me will stop condensation, draughts and leaks.
Contact the company from which you bought your windows and inform them of any problems immediately you discover them. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they've received your message. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
A window repair expert may drill the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and create the seal. However, this is usually only a temporary solution and won't stop the moisture from returning. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. It is recommended to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. Inputting your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted and you can trust that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, keep double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to various factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is important to be aware of the signs and how to fix them.
When a window seal fails, it allows humid air to get into the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are lost from the window, reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace inert gasses, meaning that fog could be re-created.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means that you can be at ease knowing that you'll get most value from your investment. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.