Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons why your double-glazed windows may need repairs such as condensation between panes to draughts and dropped or sagged frames. Most of these problems can be solved.
Try to lubricate the hinges, handles and mechanism of your door or window when it is difficult to open. This is a simple, affordable solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane breaks it loses its insulating properties and could cause draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes are damaged, moisture could be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This can make your home less energy efficient. A window that is damaged should be repaired by an expert to ensure you get a perfect seal and maximum energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to remove the broken glass. Begin by placing a protective drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane with an inexpensive glass cutter (available at most hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with lightweight oil before you begin. This will help prevent the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments and the glass should break off fairly quickly.
Once the glass is removed, scrape off any old glazing compound from the recess of the frame. This will expose the metal clips and glazier's pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any indication of corrosion, these should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier points may be reused if they are still in good condition.
The surface of the remaining frame must be prepared to allow reflazing. Using a caulking gun, apply a continuous strip of compound around the inside edge of the recess. Use a high quality putty, such as a Glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are on the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's usually caused by too many levels of moisture within your home. Warm air collides with cold glass and condenses into water droplets. These then collect in the corners and frame of the window. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels. If condensation is still present you should contact an expert who can identify the problem and repair or replace the windows if required.
It's also important to note that condensation on double-glazed windows can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will break down over time, allowing cool air to move between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if not dealt with promptly enough.
As a quick fix to condensation, you could try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a final alternative. If the condensation has left for a long time, you may be experiencing dampness or even mould within your home, which should be dealt with by a professional.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the affected pane of glass, clean out the gap, and then pipe in hot air to evaporate any remaining moisture. During the process, they'll check for damage, mould or mildew growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are fully operational and energy efficient again.
Draughts
Rubber seals may get worn out in time and create a draft between your two panes. This is usually a minor problem that can be fixed by re-installing the gaskets and this will result in a solid and airtight seal once again. This will allow warm air inside your home, and the colder air out, saving you cash on your energy bills.
Double glazing that has mist may be an indication of blown seals. The unit is comprised of two panes of glass separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap. Then, it is filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it allows water vapour to get into your space through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately, window repair near me is an easy problem to fix, and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end that can be helpful for pushing seals into the corners.
A professional may be able'reseal your windows by drilling a small opening into the window, and then adding a desiccant, or putty. This is a cheaper solution than replacing your double glazing and still provides you with a reliable draught proofing system.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It may be caused by a damaged seal or a crack in the glass or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is often possible to fix this problem. Normally, this involves making a new seal between two panes of glass. 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 ask them to confirm that they have received your notification. If there is a dispute being resolved, writing everything down will make it easier to prove your case.
In some instances, a window repair specialist will drill the gap in your windows to draw out moisture and create the new seal. However, this is usually only temporary and will not prevent the moisture from returning. It is also possible to replace the glass, which would make it watertight.
It is crucial to remember that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if you have the experience and know-how required to make the attempt. Utilizing super glue or any other type of DIY solution could cause more harm in the long term. If you aren't sure what to do, it's always recommended to seek professional advice. Inputting your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find an expert in your area who can provide double repair for your window. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted and screened and you can be certain that they will provide high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are secured by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to a variety of elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is essential to be aware of the signs and how to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes glass, causing fog. This is a common problem that can cause the window appear to be distorted. When the seal is damaged, the inert gases argon and others are removed from the window, decreasing the glass's insulation properties.
A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with the new one by a professional glazier. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves placing a vacuum pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and clear the glass. However this method isn't foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog can return.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) when it's beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and is a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It is recommended to choose an option that provides a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. You can be certain that your investment will provide the best results. Alternately, you can try to avoid this problem by selecting a window of high-quality and following the manufacturer's maintenance instructions. This will extend the life of your window and minimize the need for repairs.