Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for many reasons, including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Fortunately, the majority of these issues can be fixed.
If your window or door is difficult to open try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick, affordable fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is damaged it loses its insulation properties and can cause a draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are also broken, water can be leaking between them, causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less efficient in energy use. It is best to have an expert repair a damaged window in order to get the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. Before you start, grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will prevent 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.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the recess of the frame after the glass has been removed. This will expose the glazier's point and metal clips that keep the pane in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good shape.
The surface of the remaining frame needs to be prepared for 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 a glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge, or a standard compound that is sold in a can. Allow it to dry prior to installing the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, especially in winter. This is usually caused by high moisture levels in your home. Warm air meets cold glass and condenses into droplets of water. They then settle in the corners and frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still a problem, it's important to contact a professional to get to the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows when necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a failing seal. The seals that are applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to pass between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with quickly enough.
As a quick fix for condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary fix and should be used only as a final resort. If the condensation has been allowed to sit for too long, you may be experiencing dampness or even mould in your home, which should be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window for a more permanent solution. They'll take off the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll check for damage, mould or mildew 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 are likely to be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be solved by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign the seals of the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. The unit is made up of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If window repairs near me has blown it will allow water vapour to enter your room through the gap, creating condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
This is a simple issue to fix and windows can be swiftly replaced by experts using the appropriate tools. The expert will employ tools designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than doing it by hand. These tools have an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
In certain situations, a professional could be able to "reseal' your windows by drilling a small hole into the window and then putting in an adsorbent material or putty. This can be an economical alternative to replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double-glazed windows.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. This can be caused by a cracked or broken glass or frame or even a broken seal. The good news is that it can be easily fixed. It is usually a matter of creating a seal between two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
If you discover any issues, you should contact the company that sold you the windows. Make sure you do this in writing, and ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. Writing everything down will help later on should any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair professional could drill a hole between your windows to eliminate moisture and form a seal. However, this is usually only a temporary fix and will not prevent moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace only the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is always best to seek out professional assistance when you aren't sure what to do. You can find an expert local to you who can offer double glazing repairs by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople have been fully checked and vetted, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as insulation gas fills, are what keep double-glazed windows in place. Many factors can cause them to break, such as the weather, age, and power washing. It's important to know what the signs are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged 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 fails, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, further reducing the glass's insulating qualities.
A damaged window seal can be fixed by replacing it with the new one by a professional glazier. This can be expensive and may not completely solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gas, and the fog can come back.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective method and can be a great choice if you are seeking a long-term solution. But, it's best to select a company that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any issues are covered. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will prolong the lifespan of your window and minimize the need for repairs.