Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are many reasons your double-glazed windows could need repairs including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. Many of these issues are fixable.
If your window or door is difficult to open, try oiling the mechanism, hinges and handles. This is a quick and cheap solution.
Broken Panes
When a window pane is broken, it loses its insulating properties and can create draft. If the muntins that separate the glass panes also broken, moisture can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This will make your home less efficient in energy use. It is recommended to hire a professional repair a broken window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to take out any broken glass. Begin by putting a drop cloth under the broken window and then cutting around the perimeter of the pane using an inexpensive glass cutter (available in a majority of hardware stores). It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with light oil prior to when you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to break up the glass fragments and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound out of the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will reveal the metal clips and glazier's pins that keep the glass in the frame. If there's any indication of corrosion, the clips must be replaced with new ones. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still intact.
You'll need to prepare the surface of the frame for reglazing. Apply a continuous strip compound to the recess with the caulking tool. Make use of a high-quality glue like glazier's compound that is contained in a cartridge or a conventional compound sold in a can. Let it dry before reinstalling the glass. Install the metal clips if they are attached to the frame. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation can cause problems for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It is typically caused by excessive moisture levels in your home. Warm air collides with cold glass, which condenses into water droplets. They then settle in the corners or frames of the window. You can prevent this from happening by opening your windows more often and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and utilizing dehumidifiers. If condensation continues to occur you should contact a professional who can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the windows if necessary.
It's also important to remember that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a failing seal. This is because the factory applied vacuum seal will break down over time, allowing cool air to make its way between the panes. This can cause fogging of the window and eventually mold growth if not addressed promptly enough.
Hairdryers can be used as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. But, this is only a short-term solution and should be used as the last resort. If the condensation has left for a long time, you could be looking at mold or dampness in your home, which needs to be addressed by a specialist.
Professionals can seal your double-glazed window for a better, more durable solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they will also check for any signs of damage, mildew or mould growth and then perform an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are functional and energy efficient.
Draughts
Rubber seals may get worn out in time and create drafts between the two panes. This is often a simple issue that can be resolved 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'll save money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals in your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit consists of 2 panes of glass separated by an insulating bar that creates an insulating space. It is then filled with gas, like argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
This is a simple issue to solve, and windows can be easily replaced by specialists with the proper tools. The specialist will use a tool designed to push the new seals in place and it is usually faster than attempting to do it manually. The tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain situations an expert may be able to 'reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then putting in a special desiccant material or putty. This is a more cost-effective solution than replacements and it will still provide a reliable draught-proofing system for double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a common problem that many people encounter. This can be caused by a broken or cracked glass frame or even a broken seal. It is possible to resolve this issue. Normally, this involves creating an entirely new seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, as well as leaks.
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've received your notification. If there is a dispute, having everything in writing will aid in proving your claim.
In certain situations, a window repair specialist will cut the hole in your windows to draw moisture out and create a new seal. This is only temporary and will not stop moisture from returning. It may also be possible to replace only the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are sufficient. Using super glue or another kind of DIY solution can cause more harm in the long term. It is always best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. By entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson that offers double repair for your window. Our traders have all been thoroughly vetted, and screened and you can be sure they will provide a quality service.
Broken Seals
Double-glazed windows are held in place by seals on windows or gas. They are susceptible to damage due to various elements, including weather conditions, age and power washing. It is crucial to be aware of the signs and the best way to fix them.
When a window seal breaks it allows humidity to seep in between the two glass panes, causing fog. This is a common issue, and can cause the window to appear visually disoriented. When the seal is damaged, argon and other inert gases are lost from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, window repair near me 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 is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gas, and the fog could return.
A glazier can also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and can be a good choice if you're looking for a long-term solution. It is recommended to choose a firm that offers a warranty for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are protected. This means that you can be assured that you'll get the maximum value for your investment. You can also avoid the problem by selecting a high-quality product and following the care guidelines given by the manufacturer. This will prolong the life of the window and cut down the number of repairs.