Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows may require repair, from condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. Thankfully, most of problems can be addressed.
Try lubricating the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is a simple, affordable fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is broken it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the dividing muntins are also broken it can cause water to escape between the glass panes resulting in condensation, mold and mildew and making your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
In the beginning, you'll have to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's a good idea to grease the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will prevent the glass from shattering too easily. You can then make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. If there's evidence of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they're still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow reflazing. Apply a continuous strip of compound to the recess using a caulking tool. Use a high-quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound in a cartridge. Allow it to dry before re-inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly during the winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home where warm air collides with cold glass, which forms into water droplets and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. You can avoid this by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation with extractor fans, and running dehumidifiers. If condensation remains an issue, it's crucial to get an expert to get to the root of the issue and fix or replace your windows when required.
Condensation on a double-glazed 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 could cause the window to fog up and eventually grow mold if it's not addressed promptly.
As a quick fix to condensation, you can try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. But, this is only temporary solution and should be used as an option last option. If you leave the condensation for too long, it may cause dampness or mould in your home. This issue should be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can reseal double-glazed windows for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the space to eliminate any moisture. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and carry out an draught-proofing procedure 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 insulated can break down and this can create a draught in space between the two panes. It is simple to replace the gaskets which will create an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You will save money on your energy bills.
window repair near me glazing that has mist could be a sign of sealed blown seals. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon for example, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown, water vapour will enter your home through the gap. This can result in condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix and windows can be replaced very quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it properly. The professional will employ tools designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than trying to do it by hand. These tools feature an edge that can be used to push seals into corners.
In some cases an expert could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This can be more cost-effective than replacements and will give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a damaged seal. It is possible to fix this problem. This typically involves creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
You should contact the company from which you purchased your windows, and let them know of any issues when you notice them. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, since it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
In some cases the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make the new seal. This is a temporary fix and won't stop the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are adequate. Utilizing super glue or any other kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always advisable to seek out professional advice. You can locate an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repairs by typing 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 top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals for windows or insulation gas. They are susceptible to damage due to many factors, such as weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to repair them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can also cause the window to appear visually disoriented. Once the seal fails the argon or any other inert gas is lost from the glass, reducing its insulating properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by replacing it with a the new one by a professional glazier. However, this can be expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clean. However, this method is not 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, meaning that the fog may be re-applied.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is recommended to choose a company that has a warranty on replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. You can be assured that your investment will produce the best results. Alternately, you can attempt 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.