Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repairs such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is damaged, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when 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 come off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass has been removed. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood, the glazier's points can be used again if they're intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as glazier's compounds that is contained in a cartridge or conventional compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Then, you can install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. This is usually caused by excessive levels of moisture in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses to droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. You can avoid this by opening your windows more frequently and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when required.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can be an indication of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if it is not addressed promptly.
For a quick fix to condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should only be used as an option last resort. If the condensation has been left for a long time, you might be facing dampness or even mould in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. window repairs near me 'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the gap to evaporate any moisture. In this process, they'll also check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets, which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air inside your home and the colder air out, saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.
This is a straightforward issue to fix and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The professional will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip which is useful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain cases professionals may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This could be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It could be caused by cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to fix this problem. Usually, this means making an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.
You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems immediately you spot them. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they have received your notice. Having everything in written form will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
A window repair expert could drill a hole between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and make an airtight seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. Alternatively, it may be possible to replace the glass unit, which will ensure it is watertight.
Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Using super glue or another 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 a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including age, weather conditions and power washing. It's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes glass, creating fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, further decreasing its insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with the new one by a professional glazier. This is costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting the vacuum pump of a specific type inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog can be re-applied.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and is a great option in the event you're seeking a long-term solution. However, it's best to select a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. You can also attempt to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and reduce the need for repairs.