Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double glazed windows might require repair such as condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, affordable solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and may cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes, resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before starting, you should make sure to lubricate the cutter of this tool using a light oil. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break off fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will expose 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's gilder's points can be reused if they're intact.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the frame for re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in cartridge. Dry it out before installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign the seal has failed. This is due to the factory-applied vacuum seal may become degraded over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed promptly.
A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to eliminate excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation has been left for a long time you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which should be addressed by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll remove the affected piece 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 signs of damage or growth of mildew, mould or mildew, and perform a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear down in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is often 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 colder air outside. You can save money on your energy bill.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, such as argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown water vapour can enter your home through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
This is a straightforward issue to repair and windows can be quickly replaced by experts using the proper tools. The specialist will use an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows' by drilling a small gap into the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a frequent problem that many people experience. It could be caused by a broken seal or crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to resolve this issue. Normally, this involves creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
If you discover any problems, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Be sure to do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they've received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you actually complained.
A window repair specialist could drill a hole between your windows to remove moisture and make a seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more long-term damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can be certain that they will provide quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.
If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. When the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, window repairs could be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame in order to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog could be re-applied.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is the most cost-effective method and is a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems that you might encounter are covered. This means you can be assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. You can also try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.