Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double-glazed windows require repair for a variety of reasons including condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sagging. Thankfully, most of these issues can be fixed.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanism of your window or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap, short-term fix.
Broken Panes
When a window is broken and shattered, it loses its insulation properties and may cause drafts. If the muntins which divide the glass panes also damaged, moisture could leak between them causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less energy-efficient. It is recommended to have a professional repair a broken window to ensure the most effective seal and energy efficiency.
Firstly, you'll need to take the broken glass off. Begin by placing a cheap glass cutter from a hardware store under the broken pane. It's recommended to lubricate the cutter with a light oil before you begin. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. Then, you can make use of the tool's ball-shaped tip to loosen the fragments and they should fall away fairly quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound off the recess of the frame once the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's facets and the metal clips that hold the pane in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is constructed of wood the glazier points may be reused if still intact.
The remaining frame must be prepared to allow re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous ribbon of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Make use of a premium putty such as a glazier’s compound in cartridge. It should dry before installing the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they must be removed as well. Install the dividers.
Condensation
Condensation is a concern for double-glazed windows, particularly in winter. It's typically caused by excessive humidity in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then turns into water droplets, and collects in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening your windows more often, improving ventilation through extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to determine the root of the issue and repair or replace your windows as needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign that the seal has failed. The vacuum seal applied at the factory could wear away over time and allow cool air to get between the panes. This could lead to fogging of the window and eventually, mold growth if it is not addressed promptly enough.
Hairdryers can be used for a quick way to eliminate excess moisture. This is only a temporary solution and should be used only as a last alternative. If you leave the condensation for too long, it could cause dampness or mould within your home. This issue should be dealt with by an expert.
As a long-term solution, you can have your double-glazed windows resealed by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane, clean the gap and pipe hot air into the area to eliminate any moisture. In this process, they'll look for signs of the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth and carry out a draught-proofing process to ensure that your windows are completely 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. It's simple 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 bills.
Misted double glazing is a sign that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is composed of two glass panes filled with argon separated by a spacer to create an airtight window. If the seal is blown it will allow water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that can't be removed.
Fortunately it is a simple problem to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by specialists with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push the new seals into position and it is usually faster than trying to do it manually. The tools also have a pointed end which is useful to push the seals into the corners.
In certain situations professionals might be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small hole in the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This can be a more cost-effective solution than replacements, and will provide a reliable draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Misted double glazing is a typical problem that many people encounter. It could be caused by a damaged seal or crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. The good news is that it can often be solved. Normally, this involves 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 through which you bought your windows and let them know of any problems immediately you notice them. It is important to notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Writing everything down will make it easier to resolve any disputes arise, because it will be easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
In certain situations the window repair expert may be able to drill a hole in your windows to draw out moisture and make an entirely new seal. This is a temporary fix that won't stop moisture from resurfacing. In addition, it might be possible to replace the glass unit itself, which will ensure it is watertight.
It is important to keep in mind that you should only try DIY fixes only if you have the experience and experience required to do so. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more damage over the long term. It is best to seek out professional assistance in case you are unsure of what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you locate a local tradesperson that offers double repair for your window. All of our tradespeople are verified and checked for accuracy, so you can trust them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. There are a variety of reasons that can cause them to break, like age, weather conditions and power washing, therefore it's important to know what the symptoms are and what to do to fix them.
If a window seal is damaged it allows humidity to enter between the two glass panes, creating fog. This is a common issue, and it can cause the window to look visually distorted. Once the seal fails, the inert gases argon and others are emitted from the window, thereby diminishing the glass's insulation capabilities.
A broken window seal can be fixed by having it replaced with a new one by an experienced glazier. However, this could be costly and might not resolve the fog issue completely. Certain companies offer defogging solutions that involve putting an air pump inside the window frame to eliminate the moisture, leaving the glass free of fog. However this method isn't 100% reliable and cannot replace any inert gases, so the fog may return.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective solution and can be a great option if you're looking for a long term solution. However, it's best to select a company with a guarantee for replacement windows to ensure that any problems are covered. You can be assured that your investment will provide the most effective results. You can also try to get rid of the issue by choosing a high-quality product and following the care guidelines that are provided by the manufacturer. This will prolong the lifespan of the window and decrease the number of repairs.