Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repair such as condensation between panes, to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door when it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a perfect seal and the optimum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and the glass should break away quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. Replace them if there is any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's gilder's points can be used again if they're in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared for re-glazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows face, especially in the winter months. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These droplets then accumulate in the corners or frames of the window. This can be avoided by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to get an expert to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows if needed.
It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will be damaged over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if it is not addressed quickly enough.
A hairdryer can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be used as an option last resort. If the condensation has left for too long, you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. In this process, they'll examine for any damage, mould or mildew growth, and then apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully efficient and energy efficient again.
Draughts
The rubber seals get worn out over time and cause drafts between your two panes. It is a simple fix 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, thereby saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown water vapour can enter your room via the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes that cannot be removed.
This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be quickly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The professional will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.
In certain situations professionals may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a reliable Draught-proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a broken seal or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to resolve this issue. Typically, this is done by creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks.
If you spot any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your case.
In some cases, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create a new seal. This is a temporary fix and will not stop moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to do so. Using super glue or another type of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long in the long run. It is best to seek professional help in case you are unsure of what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair of your glazing. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be sure that they will offer a top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, like the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes glass, causing fog. It's a common problem, and can cause the window to look visually distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a the new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and might not be able to resolve the fog issue. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog can be re-applied.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option and can be a good choice in the event you're looking for the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. This means you can be sure that you'll get maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions that are provided by the manufacturer. This will extend the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.