Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Thankfully, most of these issues can be resolved.
If your door or window is difficult to open try oiling the hinges, the mechanism and handles. This is usually a simple, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are also broken, water can leak between them causing condensation and mildew, as well as mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter in a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using a light oil. 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 and the glass should break off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess area of the frame. This will reveal the glazier's points and metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood, the glazier points can be reused if they are still intact.
The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. If double glazing repairs Grays has metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Finally, reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially during the winter. This is usually caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. These then collect in the corners or frames of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact a professional to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows when required.
It's also important to remember that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The vacuum seal applied at the factory may wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window, and eventually mold growth if not addressed quickly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, you could try using hair dryers to eliminate the excess moisture. However, this is only an interim solution and should be used as an option last resort. 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 better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, then clean the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any moisture that remains. In this process, they'll look for signs of damage, mould or mildew growth and apply a draught-proofing process to ensure your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time passes, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass are likely to be damaged and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. This is often a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You will save money on your energy bill.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal is blown the water vapour will get into your room via the gap. This can cause condensation between the glass panes, which can't be sucked out.
This is a simple issue to repair and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the right tools. The expert will employ an instrument designed to push in the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. The tools also have a pointed tip which is useful to push the seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is more cost-effective than replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common issue that many people face. It could be caused by a broken seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the frame or mechanism. The good thing is that this can be easily repaired. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.
As soon as you notice any problems, you should contact the company that sold you your windows. Be sure to do this in writing, and request them to confirm that they've received your notification. If there is a dispute the fact that everything is written will make it easier to prove your complaint.
In some cases the window repair expert will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is generally only a temporary solution and will not prevent the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more permanent damage. It is always best to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. You can locate an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked and you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It's essential to be aware of what symptoms are and how to fix them.
If a window seal fails, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can also make the window appear distorted. If the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are removed from the window, thereby decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A damaged window seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be expensive and may not resolve the fog issue completely. Some 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 gas, and the fog could return.
If the IGU (insulated unit) is damaged beyond repair, a glazier could replace it. This is typically the most cost-effective option, and could be a good option in the event you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you might face are covered. This way, you can rest at ease knowing that you'll get most out of your investment. 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 lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.