Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double glazed windows might require repair, from condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be resolved.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter of this tool with a light oil. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points can be reused if they are still in good condition.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining frame to be re-glazed. With a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty like glazier's compound that is available in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Dry it out before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be replaced as well. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by excessive moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which forms into water droplets and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation continues to occur you should contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and repair or replace the windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seal that is applied by the factory can wear out over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should only be used as the last option. If you allow the condensation to sit for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be handled by an expert.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are completely efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can break down and this can cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets, that will form an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You will reduce your energy bill.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes which can't be sucked out.
This is a simple issue to fix, and windows can be quickly repaired by professionals using the proper tools. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it by hand. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening in the window, and then adding a desiccant or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing solution for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the mechanism or frame. It is often possible to correct this issue. Usually, this means making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks.
You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and inform them of any problems when you notice them. You should notify the company in writing and ask for confirmation that they received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will make it easier to prove your case.
In some cases an expert in window repair will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make a new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and will not prevent moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes when you have the skills and knowledge necessary to do so. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more damage in the long in the long run. If window repairs what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by various factors, such as weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.
If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can cause the window appear distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are lost from the window, thereby reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A broken window seal can be repaired by having it replaced with the new one by a professional glazier. This can be costly and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services, which involve placing an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass clean. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog can be re-applied.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great option if you're seeking a long-term solution. It's best to select an organization that offers warranties on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the best results. You can also get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and decrease the amount of repairs.