Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows may require repair for a variety of reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. Fortunately, a majority of problems can be addressed.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick and inexpensive solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulation properties and may cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are damaged, moisture could get in between them and cause condensation, mould or mildew. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure that you get a proper seal and optimum energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to remove the broken glass. Start by placing a protective drop cloth underneath the broken window, and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). Before you start, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed relatively quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound that has accumulated in the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed 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 frame to be re-glazed. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound along the inside edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty, such as glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be removed as well. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is one of the most common issues that double-glazed windows can experience particularly in wintertime. It's usually caused by too much moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and then collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. This can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers to lower the moisture levels. If condensation is still present it is recommended to contact an expert who can identify the issue and repair or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the factory applied vacuum seal may break down over time and allow cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be used as the last resort. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness within your home. This issue should be handled by a professional.
As a longer-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They'll take off the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. During the process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure your windows are completely functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and cause a draught to form in the get more info space between the two panes. It is a simple fix to replace the gaskets, which will create an airtight seal. This will keep the warm air in your home, and the colder air out, thereby saving you money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, creating condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
This is a simple problem to solve and windows can be swiftly replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The professional will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools also have a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing the seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is a less expensive option than replacing your double-glazed windows and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have had misted double glazing. It could be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. The good news is that this can often be repaired. It is usually a matter of making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.
As soon as you notice any issues, you must contact the company that sold you your windows. Be sure to do this in writing and ask them to confirm that they have received your notice. If there are any disagreements being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your claim.
In certain situations an expert in window repair will cut the hole in here your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not prevent the moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace just the glass, which would make it watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always better to seek professional advice. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, or insulation gas fills, are what hold double-glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by many elements, including weather conditions, age and power read more washing. It is crucial to know the symptoms and the best way to repair them.
When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to enter between the two read more glass panes, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can also make the window appear distorted. If the seal fails, gas like argon as well as other inert gases are emitted from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window seal with a brand new one. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Certain companies website offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. However, this method is not foolproof and does not replace any inert gas, and the fog can return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is beyond repair, a glazier may replace it. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great option if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any problems you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the maintenance instructions given by the manufacturer. This will extend the life of the window and reduce the amount of repairs.