Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Most of these problems can be resolved.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick, inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and could cause draft. If the dividing muntins are also damaged, it could cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mildew and mould and making your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take the broken glass off. 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. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments and they should fall off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they're still in good condition.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the remaining frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess with a caulking tool. Make use of a premium putty, such as glazier’s compound in cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. If the frame is made of metal clippings, they should be replaced as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home, with warm air meeting cold glass. This then forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact an expert to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as needed.
Condensation in a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. The seals that are applied at the factory may wear away over time and let cool air get between the panes. This can lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.
You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has allowed to sit for too long you could be looking at dampness or even mould in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe into hot air to eliminate any remaining moisture. During this process, they'll also look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. This is usually a minor issue that can be resolved by replacing the gaskets, and this will create a strong and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You will reduce your energy bills.
Double glazing that is misted could be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, such as argon to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your home through the gap. This will create condensation between the glass panes, which cannot be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push in the new seals. This is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In some cases an expert may be able to 'reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and adding the desiccant material, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements and will offer a reliable protection against draughts for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or an issue with the frame or mechanism. It is possible to correct this issue. Usually, window repairs near me means 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 issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Make sure to put this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your message. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your complaint.
In some cases an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and won't stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace only the glass, which would make it watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be sure they will provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, keep double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by a variety of elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to recognize the signs and the best way to fix them.
When a window seal breaks, it allows humid air to enter between the two glass panes and create fog. This is a common issue that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this could be expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air-pump inside the window frame in order to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog can come back.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and can be a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to choose a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be certain that your investment will yield the best results. Alternatively, you can attempt to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the life of your window and decrease the need for repairs.