Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts, or sagging frames. Many of these issues are fixable.
Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door in case it is hard to open. This is a quick, inexpensive fix.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also broken, water can leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. A broken window is best repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and maximum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by putting a drop cloth beneath the broken window, and then scoring around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in most hardware stores). It's worth lubricating this tool's cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will prevent the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped tip of the tool can be used to loosen the fragments. They should be removed fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape away any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. Replace them if you notice any corrosion. If the window is wooden the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still intact.
You'll then need to prepare the surface of the frame to be re-glazed. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty such as a glazier's compound that comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Allow it to dry prior to inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, these should be replaced as well. Finally, install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly during winter. It's usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass, which condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation with extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation persists you should contact a professional who can diagnose the issue and fix or replace the windows if necessary.
window repair near me on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. This is because the factory-applied vacuum seal will be damaged over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can lead to 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 dry the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If the condensation has left for too long you could be looking at mold or dampness within your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.
As a longer-term solution, you can get your double-glazed windows sealed by experts. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. During the process, they'll also inspect for any damages or growth of mould, mildew or mildew and apply a draught proofing treatment to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy-efficient once again.
Draughts
The rubber seals get worn out over time and create drafts between your two panes. It's simple 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 reduce your energy bill.
Double glazing that is misted may be a sign of blow-blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass that are separated by the spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes which cannot be wiped off.
This is a simple issue to repair, and windows can be easily replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals into place and this is normally quicker than attempting to do it by hand. These tools also have a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.
A professional could be able to seal your windows by drilling a small hole in the window, and adding a desiccant or putty. This is less expensive than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with an effective air-tight system for draughtproofing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this can often be solved. Usually, this means creating a new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent leaks, condensation and draughts from occurring.
Contact the company from which you purchased your windows and tell them of any issues immediately you notice them. Make sure to put this in writing, and request them to confirm that they have received your message. Having everything in written form will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In some cases an expert in window repair may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only attempt DIY fixes if your skills and knowledge are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions can result in more damage over the long term. If you are unsure of what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. By entering your postcode into the search box of Checkatrade will allow you to find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on that they will provide you with a top quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are held in place by window seals or insulation gas. Many factors can cause them to break, including weather conditions, age and power washing, so it's essential to be aware of what signs are and what to do to fix them.
When a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. This is a frequent issue that can make the window appear to be distorted. If the seal is damaged, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby diminishing its insulating properties.
A professional Glazier can replace a damaged window seal with a brand new one. This is costly and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging services which include putting a special vacuum pump in the window frame to remove the moisture, leaving the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and 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 can be a good choice if you're seeking the long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a company who offers warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues you may have are covered. You can be sure that your investment will yield the most effective results. You can also try to avoid this issue by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will extend the life of your window and reduce the need for repairs.