Double Glazed Windows Repairs
Double glazed windows can need repair for a variety of reasons, like condensation between the panes, draughts or frames that are sliding. Many of these issues are fixable.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles and mechanisms of your door or window if it is difficult to open. This is usually a cheap solution that is quick and easy to fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged it loses its insulation and may cause drafts. If the muntins that divide the glass panes also broken, water can leak between them causing condensation, mould or mildew. This can make your home less energy efficient. It is recommended to have an expert repair a damaged window to ensure the best seal and energy efficiency.
The first step is to get rid of any broken glass. Start by placing an inexpensive glass cutter from an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before you begin, make sure to lubricate the cutter with an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from shattering too easily. You can then use the tool's ball-shaped end to loosen the pieces, which should come off fairly quickly.
After the glass has been removed, scrape any glazing compound that is old from the recess of the frame. This will expose the glazier's clips and pins that hold the glass in place. If there's any sign of corrosion, these clips should be replaced with new ones. If the window is made of wood the glazier's gilder's points can be reused if they're intact.
The next step is to prepare the surface of the remaining 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 comes in a cartridge, or a standard compound that comes in a tin. Let it dry before re-inserting the glass. If the frame has metal clippings, they should be removed as well. Reinstall the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation is a frequent issue that double-glazed windows can experience, especially in the winter months. This is usually caused by too many levels of moisture in your home. Warm air is absorbed by cold glass and condenses to water droplets. They then settle in the corners or frame of the window. You can stop this from happening by opening your windows more frequently and enhancing ventilation by installing extractor fans, and using dehumidifiers. If condensation is still an issue, it's crucial to contact an expert to get to the bottom of the issue and fix or replace your windows if necessary.
It's also important to know that condensation on windows with double glazing can actually be an indication of a leaky seal. The seals that are applied at the factory can wear out over time and let cool air get between the panes. This could cause the window to fog up and eventually develop mold if not addressed immediately.
You can use a hairdryer as a quick solution to get rid of excess moisture. However, this is just an interim solution and should be used as the last option. If the condensation has left for a long time it might be facing dampness or even mould within your home, which must be addressed by a professional.
For a more long-term solution you can have your double-glazed windows repaired by professionals. They will remove the affected glass pane and clean the gap. They will then pipe hot air into the area to evaporate any moisture. In this process, they'll examine for any the presence of mildew, mold or damage growth, and then apply an draught-proofing procedure to ensure that your windows are fully functional and energy efficient once again.
Draughts
As time goes by the rubber seals around the edges of your insulated glass can be damaged and create a draught in space between the two panes. This is typically a simple problem that can be solved by replacing the gaskets and this will result in a sturdy and airtight seal once again. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air out. You'll save money on your energy bills.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals inside the sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have been blown. window repair near me is made up of two panes of glass that are separated by a spacer bar to create an insulating gap and then filled with gas, for example argon, to make the window airtight. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to enter your room through the gap, which will cause condensation between the panes that is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately, this is an easy problem to fix, and the windows can be replaced very quickly by specialists who have the appropriate tools and know how to do it right. The professional will employ an instrument designed to push into the new seals. This is typically faster than doing it manually. These tools feature an angled tip that can be used to push the seals into corners.
A professional might be able to reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and then adding a desiccant or putty. This is an economical alternative to replacements, and will offer a reliable draught-proofing solution for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have experienced misted double glazing. It may be caused by a damaged seal, or a crack in the glass, or a problem with the mechanism or frame. It is possible to resolve this issue. This typically involves making a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will stop condensation, draughts, and leaks from occurring.
As soon as you notice any issues, you must contact the company that sold you the windows. You should notify the company in writing and demand confirmation that they received your notification. Making sure that everything is in writing will be helpful later if any disputes arise, as it will be easier to prove that you did complain.
In some cases an expert in window repair will cut the hole in your windows to draw out moisture and create an entirely new seal. However, this is typically only a temporary fix and will not stop the return of moisture. It might also be possible to replace just the glass unit, which will make it watertight.
Make sure that you only try DIY fixes with the knowledge and skills you have are adequate. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is always best to seek professional help when you aren't sure what to do. Entering your postcode in the search box on Checkatrade will help you find a local tradesperson who offers double glazing repair. All of our traders are fully checked and vetted which means you can rely on them to provide a high-quality service.
Broken Seals
Double glazed windows are secured by seals for windows or insulation gas. They can be damaged by a variety of factors, such as age, weather conditions, and power washing. It is essential to recognize the signs and how to fix them.
If a window seal fails humid air can get between the two panes of glass, creating fog. It's a frequent issue and it can cause the window to look visually disoriented. If the seal is damaged the argon or any other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby decreasing its insulation properties.
A professional glazier can repair a damaged window seal with a new one. However, this is expensive and may not solve the fog problem entirely. Some companies offer defogging which involves putting a vacuum pump inside the window frame to remove moisture and make the glass clear. However this method isn't foolproof and does not replace any inert gases, so the fog can return.
A glazier may also replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) in the event that it is beyond repair. This is the most cost-effective option and is a great choice if you are looking for a long term solution. It's best to select a company who offers a warranty on replacement windows. This will ensure that any issues you may have are covered. This way, you can rest assured that you'll get the most out of your investment. Alternately, you can try to avoid this issue by choosing a premium window and following the manufacturer's care instructions. This will help to prolong the lifespan of your window and decrease the need for repairs.