Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or sagging frames. Many of these issues can be solved.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is a quick, inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and optimum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an hardware store underneath the broken pane. It's a good idea to grease the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the pieces, which should come away quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and the metal clips that hold the pane in the frame. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be used again if they're in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high quality putty, such as Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be reinstalled too. Then, you can put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by too much humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass. This then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows if needed.
It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can be an indication of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause the window to get smudged and then develop mold if not addressed quickly.
Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be used as the last option. If the condensation has left for too long, you may be experiencing mould or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll check for the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
The rubber seals wear out over time and create a draft between your two panes. It's an easy fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air in your home and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist could be a sign of blown seals. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to form an airtight window. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that is not able to be removed.
This is a straightforward issue to repair, and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the appropriate tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it manually. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.
In some cases professionals may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole in the window and then adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with a air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that this can often be solved. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts and leaks from occurring.
Contact the company through which you purchased your windows and inform them of any problems as soon as you spot them. You should inform the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they have received your notice. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your complaint.
In some cases, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in door repair near me your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from resurfacing. It may also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes if you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be able to do it. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it is always recommended to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will allow you to find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened to ensure you are certain that they will provide quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double glazed windows in place. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to know the symptoms and the best way to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a new one. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it does not replace the inert gasses, meaning that fog may return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier can replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective option, and is a great option when you're seeking the long-term solution. It's best to select a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems that you might encounter are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the best results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing the best quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will help to prolong the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.