Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. Fortunately, a majority of these issues can be fixed.
If your door or window is difficult to open, consider oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick and affordable fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy efficient. It is best 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. Start by placing a protective drop cloth beneath the window that has been broken and cutting around the edges of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). Before you begin, grease the cutter of this tool with an oil that is light. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. You can then utilize the tool's ball-shaped end to break up the glass fragments and the glass should break away fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for reflazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess using the caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound in cartridge. It should dry before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Then, you can reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be avoided by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation persists it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
Condensation on a double-glazed glass window is a sign that the seal has failed. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal can become degraded over time and allow cool air to flow between the panes. This can cause the window to fog up and then develop mold if not addressed promptly.
You can use a hairdryer for a quick way to get rid of excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final option. If the condensation is left for a long time you may be experiencing dampness or even mould in your home, which must be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap and pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During the process, they'll also look for any damages, mildew or mould growth, and perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and create a draught in the space between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and cooler air out. You'll save money on your energy bill.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown the water vapour will get into your space through the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes that can't be sucked out.
This is a straightforward issue to fix, and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the right tools. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into position and is generally faster than doing it by hand. These tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain situations an expert could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding an adsorbent material or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and will still provide you with a reliable air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is usually possible to fix this problem. Usually, this means making an entirely new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
As soon as you notice any issues, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will help you prove your complaint.
In some instances an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and won't stop moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace just the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is important to remember that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and experience required to make the attempt. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. You can locate a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. Our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and screened, so you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. A variety of factors can cause them to break, including the weather, age, and power washing, therefore it's crucial to be aware of what the symptoms are and click here how to repair them.
If a window seal fails humid air can leak between the two panes of glass, causing fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to look visually disoriented. Once the seal fails it is when any argon or other inert gas is removed from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with an entirely new one by a professional glazier. However, this is expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging, which involves placing an air pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog could come back.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is usually the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice in the event you're seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be assured that your investment will yield the most effective results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a high-quality window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.