Double Glazed Windows Repairs
There are a variety of reasons your double-glazed windows could require repair including condensation between panes to dropping or sagging frames. The majority of these issues are fixable.
Try applying lubrication to the hinges, handles, and mechanisms of your
window doctor near me or door if it is difficult to open. This is usually a low-cost temporary fix.
Broken Panes
If a window pane is damaged and shattered, it loses its insulation and can cause a draft. If the muntins that divide the glass panes are broken, moisture can be leaking between them, causing condensation or mildew, or mould. This makes your home less efficient in energy use. A window that is damaged should be repaired by a professional to ensure you get the correct seal and optimum energy efficiency.
First, you'll need to remove any broken glass. Start by placing a low-cost glass cutter in an appliance store beneath the broken pane. Before starting, you should grease the cutter of this tool using an oil that is light. This will stop the glass from breaking too easily. The ball-shaped end of the tool can be used to break the fragments. They should be removed quite quickly.
Scrape any old glazing compound from the frame's recess after the glass is removed. This will reveal the glazier's clips and pins that keep the glass in place. Replace them if there's any corrosion. If the window is made of wood the glazier's points could be re-used if they're still in good condition.
The remaining frame will need to be prepared to allow the re-glazing. Utilizing a caulking gun apply a continuous strip of compound around the inner edge of the recess. Use a high-quality putty, such as glazier’s compound in a cartridge. Dry it out before reinstalling the glass. Reinstall the metal clips, if they are attached to the frame. Finally, put back the divider muntins.
Condensation
Condensation can be a problem for double-glazed windows, especially during winter. It's typically caused by too much moisture in the home as warm air meets cold glass, which then condenses into water droplets and settles in the corners of your windows or across the frame. It can be prevented by opening windows more regularly and improving ventilation by installing extractor fans and running dehumidifiers in order to reduce the amount of moisture. If condensation is still an issue, it's best to get an expert to get to the bottom of the issue. You can then fix or replace your windows if needed.
Condensation on a double-glazed window is a sign the seal has failed. 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 get smudged and eventually develop mold if it's not addressed quickly.
As a quick fix to condensation, try using a hairdryer to dry up the excess moisture. This is a temporary solution and should only be used as a last option. If you let the condensation sit for too long, it could lead to mould or dampness in your home. This should be handled by an expert.
Professionals can reseal your double-glazed window to provide a longer-lasting solution. They'll remove the damaged glass pane and
Window doctor clean the gap. They'll then pipe hot air into the space to dry out any moisture. During the process, they'll also check for any damage or growth of mould, mildew or mildew, and perform 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 glass insulated can break down and this can create a draught in the space between the two panes. It's a simple fix to replace the gaskets which will result in an airtight seal. This will keep warm air inside your home, and cooler air outside. You'll save money on your energy bill.
Misted double glazing indicates that the seals of your sealed unit (sometimes called a DGU) have blown. The unit is made up of two panes of argon-filled glass separated by a spacer, creating an airtight window. If the seal has been blown it allows water vapour to pass through your home through the gap, causing condensation between the panes which is not able to be cleaned off.
Fortunately, this is an easy issue to fix and windows can be replaced quickly by professionals with the right tools and know how to do it correctly. The expert will employ a tool designed to push the new seals in place and is generally faster than trying to do it manually. These tools also come with a pointed end which can be useful for pushing the seals into the corners.
In certain cases professionals could be able to "reseal your windows' by drilling a small opening into the window and adding a special desiccant material or putty. This could be an economical alternative to replacements and it will still give you an effective draught-proofing system for your double glazing.
Faulty Hinges
Many people have encountered misted double-glazing. This can be caused by broken or cracked glass frame, or even a broken seal. The good thing is that this is often repaired. This usually involves creating a seal between the two glass panes. The new seal will prevent condensation, draughts, and leaks from happening.
You should contact the company through which you purchased your windows, and let them know of any issues when you spot them. Make sure to put this in writing and request them to confirm that they have received your notice. Making sure that everything is in writing will help later on should any disputes arise, because it is easier to prove that you did indeed complain.
A window repair specialist might be able to drill a hole in the gap between your windows in order to eliminate moisture and make the seal. However, this is typically only a temporary solution and will not stop the return of moisture. It may also be possible to replace the glass part, which will make it watertight.
Be aware that you should only attempt DIY fixes only if your skills and experience are sufficient. Super glue or other DIY solutions could cause more permanent damage. It is best to seek help from a professional if you are unsure what to do. You can find an expert in your area who can provide double glazing repair by entering your postcode into the search box on Checkatrade. All of our tradespeople are thoroughly vetted and checked which means you can rely on them to provide top-quality service.
Broken Seals
Window seals, also known as gas fills, are what hold double glazed windows in place. They can be damaged by many elements, including weather conditions, age, and power washing. It is important to know the symptoms and how to repair them.
If a window seal is damaged, humid air can seep between the two panes of glass, causing fog. This is a common issue that can also make the window appear to be distorted. Once the seal fails, any argon or other inert gas will be removed from the glass, thereby reducing its insulating properties.
A professional glazier can replace a broken window doctor;
read more, seal with a new one. This can be expensive and may not solve the fog issue. Some companies offer defogging, which involves putting an air-pump inside the frame of the window to eliminate moisture and make the glass clear. However, this method is not foolproof and doesn't replace any inert gases, so the fog could be re-applied.
A glazier is also able to replace the entire IGU (insulated glass unit) if it is beyond repair. This is typically the most cost-effective solution and is a great option when you're looking for an option that lasts for a long time. It is best to choose an option that provides warranties on replacement windows. This guarantees that any issues that you might encounter are covered. This way, you can rest sure that you'll get most value from your investment.