Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repairs including condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and can create draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause water to leak through the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold 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 the optimum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can use the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess once the glass has been removed. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that keep the pane in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if still intact.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Install window repair near me if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It is typically caused by high levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners and frame of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to contact an expert to determine the bottom of the issue and repair or replace your windows if necessary.
It's also important to remember that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a leaky seal. The seal that is applied by the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if not addressed quickly.
As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using hair dryers to dry the excess moisture. But, this is only an interim solution and should be used as the last option. If the condensation has left for too long it might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a professional.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by experts. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll also look for any damage, mildew or mould growth, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are efficient and energy efficient once more.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear out over time and create drafts between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets that will form an airtight seal. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which can't be removed.
This is a simple problem to repair and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than doing it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain cases professionals might be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a special desiccant material or putty. This could be more cost-effective than replacements and will offer a reliable draught-proofing system for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a damaged seal. The good thing is that this can be easily solved. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.
You should contact the company through which you bought your windows and let them know of any problems when you discover them. Make sure to put this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your message. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your complaint.
A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and form a seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop moisture from resurfacing. It is also possible to replace the glass part, which will 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. 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 better to seek professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure that they will offer a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what 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, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged, it allows humid air to seep in between the two glass panes, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to appear visually distorted. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not solve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions, which involve placing a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. This method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace inert gasses, so the fog can be re-created.
A glazier can also 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 in the event you're seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. You can be sure that your investment will yield the best results. Alternatively, you can try to avoid this problem by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.