Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could require repairs such as condensation between panes to drop or sagged frames. The majority of these issues can be solved.
If your door or window is difficult to open, try oiling the hinges, mechanism and handles. This is a quick, affordable solution.
Broken Panes
If a window pane breaks, it loses its insulating properties and may cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair the damaged window in order to get the best seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you’ll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). Before starting, you should lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can utilize the tool’s ball-shaped end to loosen the fragments, which should come off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape off 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 intact.
The remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as glazier’s compounds that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before inserting the glass. Reinstall the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It’s usually caused by too many moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation with extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation continues to occur it is recommended to contact an expert who will be able to pinpoint the issue and fix or replace the windows if needed.
It’s also important to note that condensation on a double-glazed window can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is due to the vacuum seal that was applied by the manufacturer will be damaged over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This could cause the window to get smudged and eventually develop mold if not addressed quickly.
You can use a hairdryer to eliminate excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should only be used as a final resort. If the condensation has left for a long time, you might be facing mold or dampness in your home, which must be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They’ll remove the affected piece of glass, clear the gap, and then pipe into hot air to evaporate any lingering moisture. During this process, they’ll also look for signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and apply a draught-proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
As time passes by, the rubber seals around the edges of your glass insulated can fall apart and cause a draught to form in the space between the two panes. It’s a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and colder air outside. You’ll save money on your energy bill.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two panes of glass filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window repairs. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that cannot be wiped off.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and the windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it right. The expert will employ an instrument that is designed to push into the new seals. This is usually quicker than doing it manually. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push seals into corners.
In certain situations an expert might be able to “reseal your windows’ by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in 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
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people experience. It can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. It is usually possible to correct this issue. Typically, this is done by making a new seal between the two panes of glass. The new seal will help prevent condensation, draughts and leaks.
You should contact the company from which you bought your windows and inform them of any issues as soon as you discover them. You should notify the company in writing and request confirmation that they received your notification. If there are any disagreements the fact that everything is written will aid in proving your case.
In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only temporary and won’t stop the moisture from returning. It might also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only experiment with DIY fixes if you have the skills and know-how required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions can cause more damage over the long term. It is recommended to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been thoroughly vetted and checked, so you can trust them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, therefore it’s essential to be aware of what signs are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear disfigured. Once the seal fails, argon and other inert gases are removed from the window, thereby reducing the glass’s insulating qualities.
A damaged window repair near me seal can be repaired by replacing it with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to remove the moisture and leave the glass clear. This method is not foolproof, and it doesn’t replace inert gasses, which means that the fog may be re-created.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is usually the most cost-effective option and could be a good option when you’re seeking a long-term solution. It is recommended 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 produce the most effective results. You can also avoid the problem by selecting an item of high-quality and following the care guidelines provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.
